When I open File Explorer, the window automatically focuses on Quick Access instead of This PC

Windows 11 calls Quick Access “Home,” and Home is the default, but the This PC setting should be honored. Open File Explorer, select the three-dot menu, choose Options, set Open File Explorer to This PC, and apply it. Close all Explorer windows, restart Windows Explorer from Task Manager, then test with Win + E. A pinned shortcut may have a different target.
If it still opens Home, clear File Explorer history in the same dialog and temporarily disable the recent and frequently used item options. Unpin the taskbar icon, open Explorer with Win + E, and pin that running instance again.
Test a new local Windows profile. If This PC works there, the problem is probably per-user Explorer state. If both profiles ignore the setting, install current updates, run DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth, then run sfc /scannow from an elevated terminal. If it continues, report it through Feedback Hub.