How to Change the Downloads Folder Location in Windows 11 or 10?

By default, when you install Windows 11 or 10 on your computer, it creates several system folders along with a Downloads folder in each user’s profile. The system uses this Downloads folder to store download files, pictures, and other types of content from the internet.

The downloads folder is located on the partition where you have installed your Windows 11, usually the “C” drive. Everything is fine until the “C” drive has sufficient space. But, when it will full, the system will start alarming to empty the “C” drive. In such a case, you might want to move your Downloads folder to another drive so that the “C” partition can be emptied.

Windows 11/10 allows users to move the Downloads folder to any location, including an external drive. Suppose your primary partition (usually a “C” drive) is running low on free storage space, and you want to change the Downloads location to a partition on a larger drive. In that case, this gearupwindows article will guide you.

The below-mentioned step works for Windows 8 and 7 also.

How to Change the Downloads Folder Location in Windows 11 or 10?

To move or change the Downloads folder location in Windows 11 or 10, you need to perform the following steps:-

Step 1. First, open File Explorer by pressing the Windows + E keys.

Step 2. After that, select the Downloads folder by clicking on it.

Step 3. Then, right-click on it and pick the Properties option from the pop-up menu.

Step 4. When the Downloads Properties opens, select the Location tab and then click the Move button.

Step 5. Next, the File Explorer window will open. Select a new folder of your choice; you want to set the default Downloads location. For instance, we want to move my default Downloads folder to “F:\New Downloads.”

Step 6. When you’re done, click the Select Folder button.

Step 7. Then click the Apply button.

Step 8. Select Yes on the Move Folder dialog. Now Windows 11/10 will start moving all the files and folders to the new location that you have chosen in the above step. Also, when you download a new file from the internet, it will be stored in the new place by default.

Step 9. Finally, click OK to exit from the Downloads Properties window.

Now, open the new destination folder you have chosen as the default Downloads folder. You will find a “Downloads” folder, and within that, all the previous files are stored that you had downloaded before.

Good luck.

Conclusion

In conclusion, changing the location of the Downloads folder in Windows 11 or 10 is a simple process that can be completed in just a few steps. It is especially useful when the primary partition is running low on free storage space and you need to empty it. By following the step-by-step guide mentioned above, you can move your Downloads folder to any location, including an external drive. This feature is also available in Windows 8 and 7. With a few clicks, you can easily change the default location of your Downloads folder and keep your files organized.

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