How to Reset File Explorer Folder View in Windows 11

If you’ve customized folder views in Windows 11 and want to restore them to their default settings, resetting File Explorer’s folder view can resolve display issues, fix inconsistent views, or help you start fresh. This process is straightforward and can be done through built-in options or by editing the registry. Before proceeding, ensure you have saved any important customizations or data, as resetting will revert folder views to their original defaults.

What You’ll Need

• A Windows 11 PC with administrator privileges (recommended but not always necessary)
• Basic familiarity with navigating Windows settings and File Explorer
• Optional: Backup of your current folder view settings if you want to restore later

Step-by-Step

1. Open File Explorer by clicking its icon on the taskbar or pressing Windows + E.
2. Navigate to the folder where you want to reset the view, or stay in any folder if you want to reset all folder views.
3. Click on the three-dot menu (•••) in the toolbar at the top of File Explorer, then select Options from the dropdown. This opens the Folder Options window.
4. In the Folder Options window, go to the View tab.
5. Click on the Reset Folders button. This resets the view settings for the current folder type to default.
6. To reset all folder views globally, click on the Apply to Folders button after clicking Reset Folders. Confirm your choice when prompted.
7. Click OK to close the Folder Options window. Your folder views should now revert to default settings.
8. Alternatively, if you want to reset all customizations and views, you can use the Registry Editor. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
9. Navigate to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\\Microsoft\
\Windows\\Shell\ags. Right-click on the bags key and select Delete. Confirm the deletion.
10. Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer. File Explorer will recreate the registry keys with default settings, resetting all folder views.

Common Mistakes

• Not backing up registry settings before editing, leading to potential issues if something goes wrong.
• Resetting only specific folders instead of applying the change globally when intended.
• Closing Folder Options or Registry Editor prematurely, which may leave some settings unchanged.
• Trying to reset views while File Explorer is open with unsaved customizations, causing incomplete resets.
• Using incorrect registry paths or misclicking during registry editing, which can cause system issues.

Tips

• Always back up your registry before making changes, especially if you’re unfamiliar with registry editing.
• Use the Reset Folders button for common view resets; the registry method is more advanced and for persistent issues.
• After resetting, restart File Explorer or your computer to ensure changes take effect.
• Customize your folder views again gradually to avoid future issues; note which views you prefer.
• If resetting doesn’t work, consider running System File Checker (sfc /scannow) to repair potential system file issues.

Troubleshooting

If resetting folder views does not go as planned, or if the changes do not apply, try these steps:

1. Close all open File Explorer windows.
2. Restart your computer to clear any cached settings or temporary glitches.
3. Use the Registry Editor to delete the bags and bagsms keys under HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Shell. This forces Windows to recreate default view settings.
4. Run Windows Update to ensure your system is up to date, as updates can fix bugs affecting File Explorer.
5. If problems persist, consider creating a new user profile to see if the issue is profile-specific.
6. As a last resort, perform a system restore to revert your system to a point before the issue started.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I reset folder views for specific folders only?

Yes. Use the Folder Options > View tab, then click Reset Folders while in the specific folder to reset only that folder’s view.

Will resetting folder views delete my files?

No. Resetting only affects how folders are displayed; your files and data remain unchanged.

How do I back up my current folder view settings?

Before making changes, export the registry key HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Shell by right-clicking and choosing Export.

Is resetting folder views safe?

Yes, when done through built-in options or by deleting specific registry keys, it is generally safe. Always back up the registry first.

What if my folder views keep reverting after reset?

This may indicate a system issue or third-party software interference. Try running system scans or creating a new user profile.

Can I automate resetting folder views in Windows 11?

Yes, using scripts or batch files that delete the registry keys or run commands to reset views, but proceed with caution and back up first.

Resetting folder views in Windows 11 helps restore a clean and consistent display, especially after customizations or troubleshooting display issues. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll have your folder views back to default in no time.

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