This post explains how to restore tabs in File Explorer after a restart in Windows 11. This feature is currently available in the Windows Beta versions but will be rolled out to all soon. The release introduces a redesigned File Explorer that restores previously opened tabs after a system restart, making it function like web browsers. Previously, File Explorer only remembered open windows, but now it remembers the tabs you had open in each File Explorer window before rebooting your computer.
The release also brings additional key improvements to File Explorer, including the option to open folders launched from outside File Explorer in tabs instead of new windows, and the ability to manage backup reminders with snooze or turn-off options. These enhancements significantly improve the usability and efficiency of File Explorer, allowing users to save time and effort.
Restore Tabs in File Explorer after Restart in Windows 11
To restore tabs in File Explorer after a restart in Windows 11, you need to enable one of these settings:
- Restore previous folder windows at logon.
- Automatically save my restartable apps and restart them when I sign back in.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to activate the feature:
1] Restore previous folder windows at logon
Launch File Explorer by clicking its icon in the Windows Taskbar or pressing Win + E. Click the three-dots icon at the end of the top menu and select Options.
This will bring up the Folder Options window. Navigate to the View tab.
Scroll down and locate ‘Restore previous folder windows at logon‘. This existing setting now also restores all previously opened tabs in File Explorer, not just individual windows.
Check the box to enable the setting. Click Apply, then OK. After this, your tabs in File Explorer will automatically be restored after a system restart.
2] Automatically save my restartable apps and restart them when I sign back in
With this release, Microsoft has also updated the way the ‘Automatically save my restartable apps and restart them when I sign back in‘ setting works. Now, when you turn on this general setting, it will automatically activate the File Explorer-specific setting to restore tabs and windows after reboot, allowing you to seamlessly continue your work.
To enable the setting, click the Start button icon in the Windows Taskbar and select Setting. Go to Accounts > Sign-in options. Find the setting ‘Automatically save my restartable apps and restart them when I sign back in‘ and toggle it On.
Notes:
- The above settings are not entirely new but have been enhanced in the latest update to include additional functionality for restoring tabs in File Explorer.
- The feature is currently available in the Beta Channel of the Windows Insider Program. If you’re not enrolled in the Insider Program, you’ll get the update in future stable releases of Windows 11.
This is how you can enable File Explorer to restore previously opened tabs after a system restart. I hope you find this useful.
Read: Show or Hide Preview Pane in File Explorer of Windows 11.
How to restore tabs on Windows after restart?
Most modern browsers, like Chrome and Edge, have a setting to reopen previously closed tabs after a restart. For example, in Chrome, go to Settings > On startup and select Continue where you left off to enable the setting. Additionally, you may enable the ‘Automatically save my restartable apps‘ setting under Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options to reopen compatible apps and their content after signing back in.
How do I get tabs in File Explorer Windows 11?
File Explorer tabs were introduced in the Windows 11 22H2 Moment 1 update. To get tabs in File Explorer on Windows 11, ensure you’re on a supported version. Select Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates and Install the latest updates. To open a new tab, click the + icon in the File Explorer title bar or press Ctrl + T. To switch between tabs, click on the tab or use Ctrl + Tab. To close a tab, click the X on the tab or press Ctrl + W.
Read Next: Microsoft Edge not restoring previous Tab session.
