Windows 11
Changing the Downloads Folder Location in Windows
Changing the location of your Windows Downloads folder frees up disk space and helps your computer run better. By default, Windows saves every downloaded file to your main drive, which can fill up your storage fast.
Moving this folder to another drive is a simple way to keep your files organized and avoid slowdowns.
Why Move the Downloads Folder
Step-by-step instructions
Over time, the Downloads folder can grow huge and slow your system down.
- Free up space on your main drive
- Improve Windows performance
- Keep your files better organized
- Use a second drive or an SSD
This tweak is especially useful for work computers or machines with limited storage.
Steps to Change the Downloads Folder Location
Here’s how to change the Downloads folder location on Windows 10 and Windows 11:
- Press Win + E to open File Explorer
- Right-click on Downloads
- Select Properties
Move the Folder to Another Drive
- Go to the Location tab
- Click Move
- Select a new folder or drive
- Click Select Folder
- Then click OK
Windows vous proposera de déplacer les fichiers existants vers le nouvel emplacement.
Confirm the File Transfer
Windows will ask if you want to move your existing files to the new location. Click Yes to move them all over. How long it takes depends on how big your Downloads folder is.
Once it’s done, every new file you download will automatically save to the new location.
Restore the Default Downloads Folder
If you want to go back to the original location:
- Go back to Properties
- Open the Location tab
- Click Restore Default
- Confirm with OK
The folder will move back to its original spot on your main drive.
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