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Thatcherw's avatar
Thatcherw
Iron Contributor
Aug 30, 2025

How to remove the default folders from the left pane of File Explorer in Windows11

The left navigation pane of File Explorer displays default folders such as 3D Objects, Desktop, Documents, Downloads, Music, Pictures, and Videos. I wish to completely hide or remove these entries. Please advise on the procedure.

 

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1 Reply

  • ShahabM's avatar
    ShahabM
    MCT
    Aug 30, 2025

    To completely hide or remove default folders like 3D Objects, Desktop, Documents, Downloads, Music, Pictures, and Videos from the left navigation pane of File Explorer in Windows 11, you can use the Registry Editor. Here's how:

    1. Open Registry Editor
      Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
    2. Navigate to the CLSID Key
      Go to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\MyComputer\NameSpace
    3. Delete CLSID Entries for Unwanted Folders
    4. Also Check the WOW6432Node (for 64-bit systems)
      If you're on a 64-bit version of Windows 11, repeat the same step 3 for:
      HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\MyComputer\NameSpace
    5. Restart File Explorer
      Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
      Find Windows Explorer, right-click it, and choose Restart.

     

    Important Warning!
    Editing the registry can affect system behavior. Always back up your registry before making changes.
    These steps apply to Windows 11 Home and Pro editions.

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