Open Folder in New or Same Window in Windows 11

Introduction

When you’re comparing files in two folders or managing multiple projects, you may prefer to launch a folder in a separate window rather than within the existing one.

Both Windows 10 and 11 provide the option to open a folder in a new window, rather than merging it with the current window. Windows 11 users can apply the same approach to open a folder in a new window instead of creating a new tab.

There are various methods available to initiate a folder in a new window. The following outlines four straightforward ways to open a folder in a new window on Windows 10/11.

This tutorial will explain how to open a folder, drive, or library in the same window or in a new window while browsing in File Explorer in Windows 11. The instructions provided will apply to your account.

As a Windows user, you may be familiar with the fact that double-clicking a folder in File Explorer opens it in the same window. However, it is also possible to open the folder in a new window. Let me show you how :

• Opening a Folder in a New Window Using Keyboard Shortcut Groups
  To open the currently opened folder, drive, or library in a new window, press the Ctrl + N keys.
  
• To open a selected folder in a new window, press the Ctrl + Enter keys.

• Opening a Folder in a New Window Using the Context Menu
  
  Right-click on the selected items and click Open in new window
  
  
• To permanently open folders in a new window using Folder Options in Windows, follow these steps:
  

1. Begin by accessing Folder Options. To achieve this, press the keyboard combination of Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
   Within the Run box, type control.exe folders  and either press Enter on the keyboard or click the OK button
   
2. In the Folder Options dialog, under the General tab, select Open each folder in its own window option , then click OK