How to change where files and apps are saved by default on Windows 11

Do you want to change the default location where new files and apps are saved? Here’s how on Windows 11.

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OnWindows 11, by default, when you try to save a file, the application will offer a default location to store it, and this location is usually the main installation drive. The same is true for applications. If you install apps from the Microsoft Store, they will install in the primary storage.

If you have a computer with multiple drives or partitions, you can specify where files are saved and where apps are installed by default using the Settings app.

Thisguidewill walk you through the steps to set a different location to save apps, documents, and other files on Windows 11.

How to change default save location on Windows 11

To set different drive locations to save contents and apps on Windows 11, use these steps:

Once you complete the steps, the next time you download an app from the Microsoft Store, it will install in the new drive location. Also, the next time you save a file, the new location will be shown as the new default path to store the content automatically.

More resources

For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources:

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Mauro Huculak has been a Windows How-To Expert contributor for WindowsCentral.com for nearly a decade and has over 15 years of experience writing comprehensive guides. He also has an IT background and has achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft, Cisco, VMware, and CompTIA. He has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years.