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To stop File Explorer’s navigation pane from automatically expanding to the folder you open, turn off Expand to open folder in File Explorer Options. Open Options, select View, clear the checkbox, and select Apply or OK. The exact labels or route can vary by Windows build.
Turn off automatic folder expansion
- Open File Explorer.
- Open Options. In some Windows 11 builds, you can select the three-dot menu on the toolbar and then choose Options.
- In the Folder Options dialog, select the View tab.
- Under the navigation pane settings, clear Expand to open folder.
- Select Apply, then OK if those buttons appear.
This setting controls whether the navigation tree expands to show a folder opened in the main content area. Microsoft Community guidance identifies it as the relevant control for folders opened from Quick access. Microsoft Community guidance
If the pane still jumps to a Quick access folder
Some Windows 11 users have reported that expansion or tracking behaves inconsistently for folders opened from Quick access. Reports mention versions 22H2, 23H2, and 24H2, but they do not establish how widespread the behavior is, its cause, or whether it affects your particular PC. Clearing the checkbox is the first setting to try; it is not a guaranteed fix for every Quick access case. Microsoft Q&A report and Microsoft Tech Community report
Microsoft’s July 28, 2026 preview update notes other File Explorer improvements, but do not identify a fix for this navigation-pane behavior. Microsoft’s update notes
#1 Best Overall
- KEYBOARD: The keyboard works for Windows with hot keys that enable easy access to Media, My Computer, Mute, Volume up/down, and Calculator
- EASY SETUP: Experience simple installation with the USB wired connection
- VERSATILE COMPATIBILITY: This keyboard is designed to work with multiple Windows versions, including Vista, 7, 8, 10 offering broad compatibility across devices.
- SLEEK DESIGN: The elegant black color of the wired keyboard complements your tech and decor, adding a stylish and cohesive look to any setup without sacrificing function.
- FULL-SIZED CONVENIENCE: The standard QWERTY layout of this keyboard set offers a familiar typing experience, ideal for both professional tasks and personal use.
Navigate without relying on the tree following you
The navigation pane is a shortcut tree for folders, drives, pinned locations, libraries, and network locations; it is not the only way to move through files. If you want to keep the tree from changing as you open folders, leave automatic expansion off and use the main pane to navigate. Keyboard users can focus the navigation pane, browse entries with the arrow keys, and press Enter to open a selected location in the content pane. Microsoft’s File Explorer keyboard and screen-reader guidance
When the issue is File Explorer itself
If File Explorer will not open or start at all, that is a different problem from the navigation pane expanding to the current folder. Microsoft’s separate troubleshooting guide covers failure to open or start; it does not establish that its steps fix automatic expansion. Microsoft’s File Explorer troubleshooting guide
Rank #2
- Reliable Plug and Play: The USB receiver provides a reliable wireless connection up to 33 ft (1), so you can forget about drop-outs and delays and you can take it wherever you use your computer
- Type in Comfort: The design of this keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the low-profile, quiet keys and standard layout with full-size F-keys, number pad, and arrow keys
- Durable and Resilient: This full-size wireless keyboard features a spill-resistant design (2), durable keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height
- Long Battery Life: MK270 combo features a 36-month keyboard and 12-month mouse battery life (3), along with on/off switches allowing you to go months without the hassle of changing batteries
- Easy to Use: This wireless keyboard and mouse combo features 8 multimedia hotkeys for instant access to the Internet, email, play/pause, and volume so you can easily check out your favorite sites
For general information about what the navigation pane can display, see Microsoft’s File Explorer overview.
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Quick Recap
Best Value
- All-day Comfort: This USB keyboard creates a comfortable and familiar typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and standard full-size layout with all F-keys, number pad and arrow keys
- Built to Last: The spill-proof (2) design and durable print characters keep you on track for years to come despite any on-the-job mishaps; it’s a reliable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Long-lasting Battery Life: A 24-month battery life (4) means you can go for 2 years without the hassle of changing batteries of your wireless full-size keyboard
- Simply plug the USB receiver into a USB port on your desktop, laptop or netbook computer and start using the keyboard right away without any software installation
- Simply Wireless: Forget about drop-outs and delays thanks to a strong, reliable wireless connection with up to 33 ft range (5); K270 is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later
Rank #4
- Fluid Typing Experience: Laptop-like profile with spherically-dished keys shaped for your fingertips delivers a fast, fluid, precise and quieter typing experience
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- Smarter Illumination: Backlit keyboard keys light up as your hands approach and adapt to the environment; Now with more lighting customizations on Logi Options+ (1)
- More Comfort, Deeper Focus: Work for longer with a solid build, low-profile design and an optimum keyboard angle that is better for your wrist posture
- Multi-Device, Multi OS Bluetooth Keyboard: Pair with up to 3 devices on nearly any operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, Googlebook OS) via Bluetooth Low Energy or included Logi Bolt USB receiver (2)
Rank #3
- All-day Comfort: The design of this standard keyboard creates a comfortable typing experience thanks to the deep-profile keys and full-size standard layout with F-keys and number pad
- Easy to Set-up and Use: Set-up couldn't be easier, you simply plug in this corded keyboard via USB on your desktop or laptop and start using right away without any software installation
- Compatibility: This full-size keyboard is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10 or later, plus it's a reliable and durable partner for your desk at home, or at work
- Spill-proof: This durable keyboard features a spill-resistant design (1), anti-fade keys and sturdy tilt legs with adjustable height, meaning this keyboard is built to last
- Plastic parts in K120 include 51% certified post-consumer recycled plastic*
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