Forum Discussion
How can I configure Windows 11 to allow downloads at the root of the C: drive?
Hello there,
I am interested in downloading Windows 11 directly to the root of the C: drive without having to create a new folder. I recall being able to do this with Windows 7 and Windows 8. Is there a method to achieve this with Windows 11?
2 Replies
By default, Windows 11 (and Windows 10 before it) protects the root of the system drive (C:\) with strict permissions. This is a critical security and stability measure to prevent unsafe actions.
Your web browser (especially Microsoft Edge and Google Chrome) adds an extra layer of protection by actively blocking downloads to sensitive locations like C:\, Windows\, etc., even if you have the permissions.
To disable this in Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome (based on Chromium):
- Type edge://settings/privacy (Edge) or chrome://settings/security (Chrome) into the address bar.
- Look for the security settings. In Edge, it's called "Microsoft Defender SmartScreen"; in Chrome, it's just "Safe Browsing".
- Toggle this setting off.
Installing Windows 11 directly onto the root of the C: drive (i.e., without creating a new folder) is generally not recommended and is more complex than with older versions like Windows 7 or 8. Microsoft’s installation process for Windows 11 (and Windows 10) typically expects to create a dedicated folder (like Windows) during setup to keep system files organized.
