By default, the Downloads folder in Windows 11 is used to save all downloaded files from the Internet. That is, when you download a file or software from the Internet with the help of a web browser like Google Chrome, the downloaded file/software is automatically saved to the Downloads folder.
Windows 11 offers multiple ways to access the Downloads folder, but most users prefer to access it via the File Explorer Quick Access or the left navigation pane. What to do if the Downloads folder is missing from the File Explorer Quick Access and navigation pane? This guide shows you how to add the Downloads folder to the File Explorer Quick Access and navigation pane.
Important: Please note that this method cannot be used to add the Downloads folder to the File Explorer navigation pane and Quick Access if the Downloads folder has been moved from its original location, i.e., the user profile folder. If you have moved the Downloads folder to some other drive or location, navigate to that location, right-click on the Downloads folder, and then click the Pin to Quick Access option to add it to the File Explorer navigation pane and Quick Access.
Method 1 of 2
Add Downloads folder to File Explorer Quick Access in Windows 11
Step 1: Open the Run dialog box using search or Windows logo + I keyboard shortcut. Type %userprofile% and then press the Enter key to open the user profile folder.
Step 2: The user profile folder includes Desktop, Downloads, Documents, and some other folders. Since the Downloads folder is missing, right-click on the Downloads folder and then click the Pin to Quick Access option. The Downloads folder will be added to the File Explorer Quick Access immediately.
Method 2 of 2
Another way to add the Downloads folder to Windows 11 File Explorer Quick Access
Step 1: Open the File Explorer or any folder on your PC.
Step 2: In the File Explorer address bar, type %userprofile%, and press Enter to open the user profile folder in the File Explorer.
Step 3: In this folder, look for the Downloads folder entry. Right-click on it and then click Pin to Quick Access entry. That’s it!
Our fix to the Desktop folder missing from the Windows 11 File Explorer guide might also interest you.
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