This is one of those little Windows annoyances that shouldn’t exist… but does.
If you’re on Windows 11 and File Explorer never seems to remember that you want it maximized, there’s a surprisingly simple fix. No registry edits or third-party tools.
The Simple Fix (Takes 5 Seconds)
- Open File Explorer
- Press Alt + Space
- Press X (this forces a true maximize)
- Close File Explorer
- Open File Explorer again
That’s it!
From now on, File Explorer should open fully maximized every time.
Why This Works
Clicking the maximize button or double clicking the title bar doesn’t properly save the window state, but using Alt + Space ? X tells Windows explicitly:
“This window is maximized, remember that!”
Once Explorer closes in that state, Windows finally behaves like it should.
If It Doesn’t Stick
If Explorer still refuses to cooperate:
- Make sure no other Explorer windows are open when you close it
- Try restarting Explorer from Task Manager
- Log out and back in after applying the fix
In most cases though, the shortcut method works immediately.
Final Thoughts
This is one of those fixes that feels almost too simple, but it works.
If you spend a lot of time in File Explorer (developers, IT folks, power users), this little tweak saves constant micro-annoyances.
Windows still has its quirks. Thankfully, this one’s easy to tame!
A seasoned Senior Solutions Architect with 20 years of experience in technology design and implementation. Renowned for innovative solutions and strategic insights, he excels in driving complex projects to success. Outside work, he is a passionate fisherman and fish keeper, specializing in planted tanks.