Fix: ‘File Explorer Navigation Pane Missing’ issue in Windows 11/10

The Windows File Explorer program is one that plays a significant role in the operation of Windows. You can see the various files and folders organized here in the form of a hierarchy. You are able to search for files and folders as well as copy, move, and rename them with the assistance of this program. If you want to know how to Fix: ‘File Explorer Navigation Pane Missing’ issue in Windows 11/10.

You could, for instance, open a folder that contains a file that you want to copy or move, and then drag the file to another folder or drive after the folder has been opened. One example of a file manager is File Explorer. It is extremely useful in day-to-day operations, from opening files to transferring them to another location, such as a USB drive, for example.

Why is the File Explorer left pane missing?

Most of the time, the Windows File Explorer left pane is missing after a Windows update. But there are other things that could make the File Explorer left pane go away. The following are some of them:

• File Explorer settings: If you’ve changed how the app is set up, the Windows File Explorer sidebar might not be there.
• Corrupt Windows files: If your PC’s system files get corrupted, you’ll get operational errors, which can make the app’s left pane go away. Visit Windows official website for more details.

• If you just upgraded to a newer version of Windows on your PC from an older version, the File Explorer sidebar might be gone.

Fixed: ‘File Explorer Navigation Pane Missing’ issue in Windows 11/10

Clear File Explorer History

1. Press the Windows key + E to open up File Explorer. 
2. Inside File Explorer, click on the action button, then click on Options
3. Under File Options, select the General tab, then go under Privacy and click on the Clear button (associated with Clean File Explorer history)
4. See if the Quick Access issue has been fixed.x

Malware and Computer Viruses

1. Operating systems that are too old.
2. Visiting dangerous websites.
3. Using other devices that have viruses to connect to Wi-Fi.
4. Getting files from dangerous websites.

Repair Install Windows

1. To get Windows 11 Installation Media, go to the official Microsoft website
2. Start the Media Creation Tool and choose “Create Installation Media for Another PC.”
3. Choose your USB stick
4. Wait until the process of writing the Installation files to the USB drive is finished.
5. Click Done
6. Press Windows + E on the computer you want to upgrade to open the File Explorer.
7. Click Setup.exe when the Removable drive is open.
8. Accept the terms of the license on the next page.
9. Check the options for upgrading. Your files, apps, and settings will stay the same.

Toggle the Navigation Pane On/Off

1. Press Win + E to open File Explorer.
2. Click on the “View” tab in the top menu.
3. Look for “Navigation Pane” in the list of options. If it’s not checked, you can click it to turn on the Navigation Pane.
4. If it’s already checked but still can’t be seen, uncheck it and then check it again.

Restart your computer to Fix: ‘File Explorer Navigation Pane Missing’ issue in Windows 11/10

1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
2. Go to “Accounts” and choose “Family & other users.”
3. Under “Other users,” click on “Add account.”
4. Follow the instructions on the screen to make a new account.
5. Sign in with the new account and see if you can see the Navigation Pane.

FAQs