Accessing ‘This PC’ on Windows 11 is a breeze. It’s the gateway to all your files and folders, and I’m here to guide you through the process. Just follow these simple steps and you’ll find yourself browsing your computer’s content in no time.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Get to This PC on Windows 11
Before we dive into the steps, let’s clarify what ‘This PC’ is. Simply put, it’s a File Explorer window that shows you all the drives connected to your computer, including any network drives, and provides quick access to your Documents, Pictures, Downloads, and other user folders.
Step 1: Click on the Start Menu Button
Click on the Start menu button located at the bottom left corner of your screen.
The Start menu is your go-to for finding anything on your computer. Once you click it, you’ll see a list of apps and a search bar.
Step 2: Type ‘This PC’ into the Search Bar
Type ‘This PC’ into the search bar at the top of the Start menu.
As you start typing, Windows will begin filtering through programs and files, displaying the most relevant results for you.
Step 3: Click on the ‘This PC’ App
Click on the ‘This PC’ app that appears in the search results.
‘This PC’ will likely be the top result, and it’ll have a folder icon next to it. Just click on it, and the File Explorer window will open up.
After you complete these steps, the ‘This PC’ window will open, and you’ll have access to all your drives and user folders.
Tips: How to Navigate This PC on Windows 11
- Use the address bar at the top of the ‘This PC’ window to quickly jump to different folders or drives.
- Right-click on any drive or folder for more options, like opening in a new window or pinning to Quick access.
- Use the view options to change how your files and folders are displayed – you can choose between Details, Tiles, and more.
- Check the left-hand pane for quick links to frequently used folders and drives.
- Use the search function within ‘This PC’ to find specific files or folders.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I add a shortcut to ‘This PC’ on my desktop?
Right-click on your desktop, select ‘Personalize,’ then ‘Themes,’ and finally ‘Desktop icon settings.’ From there, you can choose to add a ‘This PC’ shortcut to your desktop.
Can I pin ‘This PC’ to my taskbar for quicker access?
Yes, once you have ‘This PC’ open, right-click on the icon in the taskbar and select ‘Pin to taskbar.’
How do I access This PC with a keyboard shortcut?
Pressing ‘Windows Key + E’ will open the File Explorer, and you can then click on ‘This PC’ in the left-hand pane.
What if ‘This PC’ doesn’t show up in my search results?
Make sure you’re typing it correctly, and if it still doesn’t show up, try accessing File Explorer directly and finding ‘This PC’ in the left-hand pane.
Can I change what folders are displayed in ‘This PC’?
Yes, you can customize ‘This PC’ to show or hide certain folders. To do this, go to the ‘View’ tab in File Explorer and click on ‘Options.’ Under the ‘General’ tab, you can choose which folders to show in ‘This PC.’
Summary
- Click on the Start Menu Button
- Type ‘This PC’ into the Search Bar
- Click on the ‘This PC’ App
Conclusion
Navigating Windows 11 and accessing ‘This PC’ is straightforward once you know the steps. Whether you’re a new user or a seasoned pro, understanding how to quickly find your files and manage your folders is key to a smooth computing experience. With this guide, you’re now equipped to jump right into organizing and accessing your data with ease.
Remember, ‘This PC’ doesn’t only provide a view of your local drives; it’s also a hub for managing connected devices and network drives. Plus, customizing the view and adding shortcuts can streamline your workflow and save you time.
In the ever-evolving world of technology, staying on top of these basic functions is crucial. Keep exploring, learning, and making the most out of your Windows 11 system. And next time you’re helping a friend or family member with their computer, you’ll know exactly how to get to ‘This PC’ on Windows 11, and you’ll be their tech hero!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.