How to open File Explorer Folder Options on Windows 11

Windows 11 still includes the Folder Options settings for File Explorer, the option is just in a different place – here's how to find it.

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@Pureinfotech
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Windows 11 File Explorer Options
Windows 11 File Explorer Options

Windows 11 includes an updated version of File Explorer that retains the same classic look but with a new minimalistic menu that only shows basic commands. As a result, the commands have been reorganized, making it more difficult to find, including the Folder Options to customize File Explorer.

Since the “View” tab is no longer part of File Explorer, most of the commands and options have been relocated to three new menus, including “Sort and group options,” “Layout and view options,” and “See more.”

Although the ribbon is gone, you can still access the Folder Options within the File Explorer or Control Panel.

In this guide, you will learn two ways to open the Folders Options settings for File Explorer on Windows 11.

Open Folder Options for File Explorer on Windows 11

To find and open the Folder Options settings, use these steps:

  1. Open File Explorer on Windows 11.

  2. Click the See more (three-dotted button) drop-down menu in the far right.

    File Explorer Options
    File Explorer Options

  3. Select the Options item.

Once you complete the steps, you will access the File Explorer settings to customize the experience.

Open Folder Options for File Explorer via Control Panel

To access the File Explorer settings through Control Panel, use these steps:

  1. Open Control Panel.

  2. Click on Appearance and Personalization.

  3. Click the File Explorer Options.

    Control Panel File Explorer Options
    Control Panel File Explorer Options

After you complete the steps, you will have access to the general, view, and search settings.

About the author
Avatar for Mauro Huculak

Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 14 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 20 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].