How to Restore Open Windows Folders When You Log Off and On or Restart

Do you have favorite folders that you like to keep open when you are using Windows? Then you will know the annoyance of having open folders being closed when you have to log off or restart the computer. Fortunately, there is a way to tweak Windows so that open folders are restored when you log back on or restart. There is a setting for this in Folder Options and here is how it works.

Restore open folders in Windows XP

1. Open a folder or My Computer
2. Open the menu Tools
3. Select “Folder Options”
4. Click the tab “View”
5. Scroll down to the entry “Restore previous folder windows at logon” and check it
6. Click “OK”

Restore open folders in Windows Vista/7

There are a number of ways to get to Folder Options. Which one is better is a matter of personal preference. Here is one way:

1. Open a folder or Computer
2. Open the “Organize” drop-down menu
3. Select “Folder and Search Options”
4. Click the tab “View”
5. Scroll down to the entry “Restore previous folder windows at logon” and check it
6. Click “OK”

And there you have it. Now when you restart your computer or log off and on, the folders you had open previously will be restored.

Bonus tip: A quick way to open (My) Computer is this keyboard shortcut:
Windows key+E

How to Restore Open Windows Folders When You Log Off and On or Restart