Do you want to redirect the folder “Desktop” to a different location on your computer? This is a common question that many users encounter when they want to organize their files more efficiently or when they are running out of space on their primary hard drive. Redirecting the Desktop folder can be a simple yet effective solution to these problems.
In this article, we will discuss the reasons why you might want to redirect the Desktop folder, the steps to do so, and the potential benefits and drawbacks of this action. By the end of this read, you should have a clearer understanding of whether redirecting your Desktop folder is the right choice for you.
Why Redirect the Desktop Folder?
The primary reasons for redirecting the Desktop folder include:
1. Space Management: If your primary hard drive is running out of space, redirecting the Desktop folder to a different location can free up valuable space on your system drive.
2. Organization: Redirecting the Desktop folder to a separate drive or partition can help you keep your files more organized and accessible.
3. Backup and Recovery: By storing your Desktop folder on a separate drive, you can create a backup more easily and recover your files in case of data loss.
How to Redirect the Desktop Folder
To redirect the Desktop folder, follow these steps:
1. Open File Explorer: Press `Win + E` to open File Explorer.
2. Search for “This PC”: Type “This PC” in the search bar and select the corresponding result.
3. Navigate to the Desktop Folder: Expand the “This PC” folder, then open the “Users” folder, and finally the folder corresponding to your username.
4. Find the Desktop Folder: Look for the “Desktop” folder and right-click on it.
5. Select “Properties”: Choose “Properties” from the context menu.
6. Go to the Location Tab: Click on the “Location” tab in the Properties window.
7. Change the Location: Click on the “Move” button and select a new location for the Desktop folder. Choose a drive with more space or a different partition.
8. Apply and Confirm: Click “Apply” and then “OK” to confirm the changes.
Benefits and Drawbacks
Benefits:
– Increased Storage Space: Redirecting the Desktop folder can free up space on your primary hard drive.
– Improved Organization: Having a separate Desktop folder can help you keep your files more organized.
– Ease of Backup: It becomes easier to back up and restore your Desktop folder when it is stored on a separate drive.
Drawbacks:
– Access: You may experience a slight delay when accessing files on the Desktop folder, especially if the drive is not as fast as your primary hard drive.
– Compatibility: Some applications might not work correctly if they expect the Desktop folder to be in its default location.
In conclusion, redirecting the Desktop folder can be a helpful solution for managing your files and storage space. However, it is essential to weigh the benefits against the potential drawbacks before making the decision.
