Solved File explorer navigation pane changed (win11)

Hello, I having a small issue with Windows file Explorer - the navigation pane on the left has changed it layout. Previously I had all the main libraries under 'This PC' but now under 'This PC' it just shows the attached drives. All my libraries (Downloads/Music/Pictures etc) are now shown as pinned items which I don't want, also as pinned there is no option to expand the view via the arrow.

I have tried resetting all options within the File Explorer menu options but this doesn't work. Also I can right click on the Navigation pane and there are a few options, eg 'Show all folders' 'show libraries' but I cant get my previous setup back or end up with duplicates of Downloads library showing, and additional folders showing that I have no need for like 'Control Panel' and 'Recycle Bin'

Two screenshots attached to help explain the issue hopefully - the first image taken on my smartphone a few months ago shows my normal setup for many years. The second image or screenshot shows how it is now

Many thanks in advance for any advice on how to fix this.

Hal

Hi,
Yep this was an important change

I just cut to the chase and unpin all the nonsense home/ quick access crap and create a shortcut to desktop to user folder and auto expand with this script using cmd as admin
I also add user folder to start menu list and it acts the same way


End result

Hi, thanks a lot for your reply. Ah I see so it's actually something Microsoft have done

Thanks for the tips as well, I'll give them a try

You can also add your personal folders back under This PC.

That's great thanks for the link! Seems to be what I'm looking for. I'll give it a try

Thanks again.

Hal