With default settings, the Windows 11 File Explorer shows Desktop, Documents, Pictures, Downloads and Videos folders in the File Explorer navigation pane (left pane) and Quick Access section so that users can easily access these folders. Since the navigation pane shows up in all folders, one can access these folders from any folder.
What is the desktop folder in Windows 11?
The Desktop folder includes everything that you have saved on your Windows 11 desktop, from app shortcuts to folders to files. It is one of the most commonly accessed folders as most users save files and folders they frequently need on the desktop in addition to app shortcuts.
Two ways to restore the missing Desktop folder to Windows 11 File Explorer
If the Desktop folder is missing from the File Explorer, you can do multiple things to restore it. Here are the two easy ways to restore the missing Desktop folder.
Method 1 of 2
Add Desktop folder to File Explorer in Windows 11
Step 1: Open This PC or any other folder.
Step 2: In the File Explorer address bar, type %userprofile% and then press the Enter key to navigate to your user account profile folder.
Step 3: Here, look for the Desktop folder. Right-click on it and then click the Pin to Quick Access option to add Desktop to the File Explorer navigation pane as well as Quick Access.
The added Desktop folder will appear at the bottom of the list in the left pane of File Explorer. To move it up, drag and drop it to where you would like to see it.
Method 2 of 2
Restore the Desktop folder in File Explorer in Windows 11
Step 1: Open the Run command box using the Windows logo + R keyboard shortcut.
Step 2: In the field, type %userprofile% and press Enter to open the user profile folder.
Step 3: The user profile folder displays several folders. Look for the Desktop folder. Right-click on it and then click Add to Quick Access option. That’s it! The Desktop folder should now appear in the File Explorer navigation pane and Quick Access area.
James S. says
If using OneDrive, you will need to add ‘OneDrive’ after your username to get to ‘Desktop’. But could not get that folder added to Quick Access. But a right-click on the Desktop folder gives you the path. (Agree that it doesn’t work as per the article).
TERRY L LOEWENBERG says
Neither suggestion worked on W11
[email protected] says
Totally didn’t work