After changing the file view mode for a folder in Windows File Explorer, you may want to set all folders to use the same file view mode. Select the version of Windows on your computer, and follow the instructions to set a single file view mode for all folders in File Explorer.

Windows 8 and Windows 10

  • Open File Explorer.

  • In the left pane, click This PC.

  • Click the View tab at the top of the File Explorer window.

  • In the Layout section, select Extra large icons, Large icons, Medium Icons, Small icons, List, Details, Tiles, or Content to change to the desired file view mode.

  • Windows 8 and Windows 10

  • Windows 7 and earlier

  • On the View tab again, click Options on right side of the menu bar.

  • In the Folder Options window, click the View tab.

  • Click the Apply to Folders button to apply display settings of the current folder to all subfolders.

  • Click OK to apply the change and close the window.

Windows 7 and earlier

  • Open My Computer or File Explorer.
  • In the left pane, click My Computer or Computer.
  • Click View in the menu at the top of the window. If you do not see the View menu, press the Alt key to make it visible.
  • In the View menu, select Extra large icons, Large icons, Medium Icons, Small icons, List, Details, Tiles, or Content to change to the desired file view mode.
  • Click View again in the menu at the top of the File Explorer window.
  • In the View menu, select Folder Options.
  • In the Folder Options window, click the View tab.
  • Click the Apply to Folders button to apply the file view mode to all folders.
  • How to change how files are displayed in Windows Explorer.
  • See the Explorer definition for further information and related links.
  • Computer file help and support.
  • Microsoft Windows help and support.