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When installing a fresh copy of Windows or creating a new Windows 10 account, various user folders are generated to store different types of content such as downloaded files from the internet or pictures, videos, music, etc. However, if you want, you can customize everything according to your preferences.
Imagine you are looking for a way to move user folders to an external drive or simply want to relocate these folders to a different location on your computer. Refer to the steps outlined in the article below by Mytour.
Why Moving the Entire User Folder Isn't Advisable?
Warning: Avoid moving the entire user folder.
While there are various methods to move the user folder, it requires users to deploy a tool called Sysprep. In reality, Microsoft discourages users from using Sysprep on their personal computers and recommends it only for testing environments. Executing this on a personal computer may result in the loss of critical data and, in severe cases, may even lead to system inaccessibility.
Fortunately, there are alternative ways to move user folders like Downloads or Documents on Windows 10 without the risks associated with moving the entire user folder. This allows you to relocate files consuming significant space on your computer to another drive without the worry of potential issues.
Method 1: Moving User Folders
To begin, open File Explorer and navigate to the user folder you want to relocate. Right-click on it and select Properties.
On the next window, click on the Location tab
Click on Move, choose the new location where you want to move the folder, and then click OK to apply the changes.
Follow similar steps to relocate other user folders. An important note is that if you choose the current folder, you only need to specify that it's the folder undergoing changes. It's better to create an entirely new folder if you want a fresh start.
With this method, the process of moving user folders on Windows 10 is quick and easy. The locations of your user folders will be automatically updated on the Quick Access toolbar.
Method 2: Replace User Folders
Moving user folders using Microsoft-approved methods won't cause any issues. However, if you prefer, you can consider replacing the user folders.
This method doesn't alter the location of existing user folders; instead, you'll use new folders. Since you're not searching for folders at specific locations that Windows 10 looks for, there's no way to interfere with the operating system.
The first step is simply accessing the location where you want to set up the new user folders using File Explorer. Create a new user folder, give it any name you like. The next steps depend on the type of folder you create.
If it's a new Downloads folder, you need to open a web browser and choose a new destination for the content you download from the internet.
Microsoft Edge Browser
On the Microsoft Edge browser, click the Settings and more button, then navigate to Advanced settings, and select View advanced settings.
In the Downloads section, you'll find a box to specify the folder where you want to store your files.
Google Chrome
For the Google Chrome browser, click the three-dot icon in the top right corner, then choose Settings.
The Downloads box is located at the bottom of the menu, under the Advanced section.
If it's a different folder, such as Music or Pictures, you can specify different types of content.
To move Windows 10 user folders from C: drive to another partition, right-click on File Explorer, choose Properties, and then click on the Customize tab.
Depending on whether you store documents, images, music, or videos, you can optimize and fine-tune the folder appropriately.
Finally, add the new user folders to the Quick Access menu. This action is quite straightforward—just drag and drop the icons of the folders in, and don't forget to remove any no longer useful links.
Be cautious with what you modify
Moving Windows user folders can potentially cause serious issues. Any adjustments to the settings related to the operating system platform can lead to significant complications.
Microsoft has developed tools like Sysprep for expert use in specific situations. While specialized users can utilize this tool effectively, not knowing how to use it can result in severe complications.
Additionally, you can easily hide folders on Windows 10 to keep your important files discreet. Hiding folders might be a preferable option over setting a password if you're concerned about exposure.
Above are the steps to move user folders on Windows 10. Have you encountered any issues while applying the mentioned methods? Share your thoughts with Mytour.
