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win: improve folder hiding in "This PC" #16

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This commit improves how folders are hidden under "This PC" on Windows.
It introduces shared functions to improve maintainability. This increases
the robustness and simplifies future updates and maintenance.

Key changes:

- Fix revert codes to match the default operating system state.
- Implement shared functions for higher maintainability.
- Add more documentation.
- Introduce more methods to hide folders, adding the suggestion from
  #16.

Other supporting changes:

- Add ability to revert `DeleteRegistryKey`.
- Add ability to contrain Windows version in `DeleteRegistryKey`.
- Add generated comment by default in `DeleteRegistryKey`.
This commit is contained in:
undergroundwires
2024-08-07 11:51:28 +02:00
parent 55c23e9d4c
commit e8add5ec08
1 changed files with 716 additions and 80 deletions
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758
src/application/collections/windows.yaml
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@@ -20176,64 +20176,526 @@ actions:
data: '1'
deleteOnRevert: 'true' # Missing by default since Windows 10 Pro (≥ 22H2) and Windows 11 Pro (≥ 23H2)
-
category: Remove items from "This PC" and "Browse" in dialog boxes
category: Remove folders from This PC in File Explorer
docs: |- # refactor-with-variables: Same • Quick Access Productivity
This category includes scripts to hide specific folders from **This PC** in **File Explorer**
and other file selection dialogs on Windows systems.
It enhances privacy by hiding personal folders from common Windows interfaces.
This prevents accidental exposure of sensitive information when sharing your screen
or allowing others to use your computer.
Removing folders may change how you access them if you often use **This PC** or file dialogs.
You can still reach these folders through direct paths or shortcuts.
These scripts are not applicable to Windows 11, as it does not display user folders
such as *Documents*, *Pictures*, and *Music* in **This PC** by default [1].
> **Caution**: This action enhances privacy but may require extra steps for access.
### Folder Identifier Reference
These items are known to Windows by their IDs [2]:
| Name | Internal Name | Folder GUID |
|-------------|-------------|---------|
| Network | `NetworkFolder` | `D20BEEC4-5CA8-4905-AE3B-BF251EA09B53` |
| This PC | `ComputerFolder` | `0AC0837C-BBF8-452A-850D-79D08E667CA7` |
| Internet | `InternetFolder` | `4D9F7874-4E0C-4904-967B-40B0D20C3E4B` |
| Control Panel | `ControlPanelFolder` | `82A74AEB-AEB4-465C-A014-D097EE346D63` |
| Printers | `PrintersFolder` | `76FC4E2D-D6AD-4519-A663-37BD56068185` |
| Sync Center | `SyncManagerFolder` | `43668BF8-C14E-49B2-97C9-747784D784B7` |
| Sync Setup | `SyncSetupFolder` | `0F214138-B1D3-4A90-BBA9-27CBC0C5389A` |
| Conflicts | `ConflictFolder` | `4BFEFB45-347D-4006-A5BE-AC0CB0567192` |
| Sync Results | `SyncResultsFolder` | `289A9A43-BE44-4057-A41B-587A76D7E7F9` |
| Recycle Bin | `RecycleBinFolder` | `B7534046-3ECB-4C18-BE4E-64CD4CB7D6AC` |
| Connections | `ConnectionsFolder` | `6F0CD92B-2E97-45D1-88FF-B0D186B8DEDD` |
| Fonts | `Fonts` | `FD228CB7-AE11-4AE3-864C-16F3910AB8FE` |
| Desktop | `Desktop` | `B4BFCC3A-DB2C-424C-B029-7FE99A87C641` |
| Startup | `Startup` | `B97D20BB-F46A-4C97-BA10-5E3608430854` |
| Programs | `Programs` | `A77F5D77-2E2B-44C3-A6A2-ABA601054A51` |
| Start Menu | `StartMenu` | `625B53C3-AB48-4EC1-BA1F-A1EF4146FC19` |
| Recent | `Recent` | `AE50C081-EBD2-438A-8655-8A092E34987A` |
| SendTo | `SendTo` | `8983036C-27C0-404B-8F08-102D10DCFD74` |
| Documents | `Documents` | `FDD39AD0-238F-46AF-ADB4-6C85480369C7` |
| Favorites | `Favorites` | `1777F761-68AD-4D8A-87BD-30B759FA33DD` |
| Network Shortcuts | `NetHood` | `C5ABBF53-E17F-4121-8900-86626FC2C973` |
| Printer Shortcuts | `PrintHood` | `9274BD8D-CFD1-41C3-B35E-B13F55A758F4` |
| Templates | `Templates` | `A63293E8-664E-48DB-A079-DF759E0509F7` |
| Common Startup | `CommonStartup` | `82A5EA35-D9CD-47C5-9629-E15D2F714E6E` |
| Common Programs | `CommonPrograms` | `0139D44E-6AFE-49F2-8690-3DAFCAE6FFB8` |
| Common Start Menu | `CommonStartMenu` | `A4115719-D62E-491D-AA7C-E74B8BE3B067` |
| Public Desktop | `PublicDesktop` | `C4AA340D-F20F-4863-AFEF-F87EF2E6BA25` |
| ProgramData | `ProgramData` | `62AB5D82-FDC1-4DC3-A9DD-070D1D495D97` |
| Common Templates | `CommonTemplates` | `B94237E7-57AC-4347-9151-B08C6C32D1F7` |
| Public Documents | `PublicDocuments` | `ED4824AF-DCE4-45A8-81E2-FC7965083634` |
| Roaming | `RoamingAppData` | `3EB685DB-65F9-4CF6-A03A-E3EF65729F3D` |
| Local | `LocalAppData` | `F1B32785-6FBA-4FCF-9D55-7B8E7F157091` |
| LocalLow | `LocalAppDataLow` | `A520A1A4-1780-4FF6-BD18-167343C5AF16` |
| Internet Cache | `InternetCache` | `352481E8-33BE-4251-BA85-6007CAEDCF9D` |
| Cookies | `Cookies` | `2B0F765D-C0E9-4171-908E-08A611B84FF6` |
| History | `History` | `D9DC8A3B-B784-432E-A781-5A1130A75963` |
| System | `System` | `1AC14E77-02E7-4E5D-B744-2EB1AE5198B7` |
| System32 | `SystemX86` | `D65231B0-B2F1-4857-A4CE-A8E7C6EA7D27` |
| Windows | `Windows` | `F38BF404-1D43-42F2-9305-67DE0B28FC23` |
| Profile | `Profile` | `5E6C858F-0E22-4760-9AFE-EA3317B67173` |
| Pictures | `Pictures` | `33E28130-4E1E-4676-835A-98395C3BC3BB` |
| Program Files (x86) | `ProgramFilesX86` | `7C5A40EF-A0FB-4BFC-874A-C0F2E0B9FA8E` |
| Common Files (x86) | `ProgramFilesCommonX86` | `DE974D24-D9C6-4D3E-BF91-F4455120B917` |
| Program Files (x64) | `ProgramFilesX64` | `6D809377-6AF0-444B-8957-A3773F02200E` |
| Common Files (x64) | `ProgramFilesCommonX64` | `6365D5A7-0F0D-45E5-87F6-0DA56B6A4F7D` |
| Program Files | `ProgramFiles` | `905E63B6-C1BF-494E-B29C-65B732D3D21A` |
| Program Files (Common) | `ProgramFilesCommon` | `F7F1ED05-9F6D-47A2-AAAE-29D317C6F066` |
| User Program Files | `UserProgramFiles` | `5CD7AEE2-2219-4A67-B85D-6C9CE15660CB` |
| User Common Files | `UserProgramFilesCommon` | `BCBD3057-CA5C-4622-B42D-BC56DB0AE516` |
| Administrative Tools | `AdminTools` | `724EF170-A42D-4FEF-9F26-B60E846FBA4F` |
| Common Administrative Tools | `CommonAdminTools` | `D0384E7D-BAC3-4797-8F14-CBA229B392B5` |
| Music | `Music` | `4BD8D571-6D19-48D3-BE97-422220080E43` |
| Videos | `Videos` | `18989B1D-99B5-455B-841C-AB7C74E4DDFC` |
| Ringtones | `Ringtones` | `C870044B-F49E-4126-A9C3-B52A1FF411E8` |
| Public Pictures | `PublicPictures` | `B6EBFB86-6907-413C-9AF7-4FC2ABF07CC5` |
| Public Music | `PublicMusic` | `3214FAB5-9757-4298-BB61-92A9DEAA44FF` |
| Public Videos | `PublicVideos` | `2400183A-6185-49FB-A2D8-4A392A602BA3` |
| Public Ringtones | `PublicRingtones` | `E555AB60-153B-4D17-9F04-A5FE99FC15EC` |
| Resource Directory | `ResourceDir` | `8AD10C31-2ADB-4296-A8F7-E4701232C972` |
| Localized Resources | `LocalizedResourcesDir` | `2A00375E-224C-49DE-B8D1-440DF7EF3DDC` |
| OEM Links | `CommonOEMLinks` | `C1BAE2D0-10DF-4334-BEDD-7AA20B227A9D` |
| CD Burning | `CDBurning` | `9E52AB10-F80D-49DF-ACB8-4330F5687855` |
| User Profiles | `UserProfiles` | `0762D272-C50A-4BB0-A382-697DCD729B80` |
| Playlists | `Playlists` | `DE92C1C7-837F-4F69-A3BB-86E631204A23` |
| Sample Playlists | `SamplePlaylists` | `15CA69B3-30EE-49C1-ACE1-6B5EC372AFB5` |
| Sample Music | `SampleMusic` | `B250C668-F57D-4EE1-A63C-290EE7D1AA1F` |
| Sample Pictures | `SamplePictures` | `C4900540-2379-4C75-844B-64E6FAF8716B` |
| Sample Videos | `SampleVideos` | `859EAD94-2E85-48AD-A71A-0969CB56A6CD` |
| Photo Albums | `PhotoAlbums` | `69D2CF90-FC33-4FB7-9A0C-EBB0F0FCB43C` |
| Public | `Public` | `DFDF76A2-C82A-4D63-906A-5644AC457385` |
| Programs and Features | `ChangeRemovePrograms` | `DF7266AC-9274-4867-8D55-3BD661DE872D` |
| App Updates | `AppUpdates` | `A305CE99-F527-492B-8B1A-7E76FA98D6E4` |
| Get Programs | `AddNewPrograms` | `DE61D971-5EBC-4F02-A3A9-6C82895E5C04` |
| Downloads | `Downloads` | `374DE290-123F-4565-9164-39C4925E467B` |
| Public Downloads | `PublicDownloads` | `3D644C9B-1FB8-4F30-9B45-F670235F79C0` |
| Saved Searches | `SavedSearches` | `7D1D3A04-DEBB-4115-95CF-2F29DA2920DA` |
| Quick Launch | `QuickLaunch` | `52A4F021-7B75-48A9-9F6B-4B87A210BC8F` |
| Contacts | `Contacts` | `56784854-C6CB-462B-8169-88E350ACB882` |
| Gadgets | `SidebarParts` | `A75D362E-50FC-4FB7-AC2C-A8BEAA314493` |
| Default Gadgets | `SidebarDefaultParts` | `7B396E54-9EC5-4300-BE0A-2482EBAE1A26` |
| Public Game Tasks | `PublicGameTasks` | `DEBF2536-E1A8-4C59-B6A2-414586476AEA` |
| Game Tasks | `GameTasks` | `054FAE61-4DD8-4787-80B6-090220C4B700` |
| Saved Games | `SavedGames` | `4C5C32FF-BB9D-43B0-B5B4-2D72E54EAAA4` |
| Games | `Games` | `CAC52C1A-B53D-4EDC-92D7-6B2E8AC19434` |
| Search MAPI | `SEARCH_MAPI` | `98EC0E18-2098-4D44-8644-66979315A281` |
| Search CSC | `SEARCH_CSC` | `EE32E446-31CA-4ABA-814F-A5EBD2FD6D5E` |
| Links | `Links` | `BFB9D5E0-C6A9-404C-B2B2-AE6DB6AF4968` |
| User Files | `UsersFiles` | `F3CE0F7C-4901-4ACC-8648-D5D44B04EF8F` |
| User Libraries | `UsersLibraries` | `A302545D-DEFF-464B-ABE8-61C8648D939B` |
| Search Home | `SearchHome` | `190337D1-B8CA-4121-A639-6D472D16972A` |
| Original Images | `OriginalImages` | `2C36C0AA-5812-4B87-BFD0-4CD0DFB19B39` |
| Documents Library | `DocumentsLibrary` | `7B0DB17D-9CD2-4A93-9733-46CC89022E7C` |
| Music Library | `MusicLibrary` | `2112AB0A-C86A-4FFE-A368-0DE96E47012E` |
| Pictures Library | `PicturesLibrary` | `A990AE9F-A03B-4E80-94BC-9912D7504104` |
| Videos Library | `VideosLibrary` | `491E922F-5643-4AF4-A7EB-4E7A138D8174` |
| Recorded TV Library | `RecordedTVLibrary` | `1A6FDBA2-F42D-4358-A798-B74D745926C5` |
| HomeGroup | `HomeGroup` | `52528A6B-B9E3-4ADD-B60D-588C2DBA842D` |
| HomeGroup Current User | `HomeGroupCurrentUser` | `9B74B6A3-0DFD-4F11-9E78-5F7800F2E772` |
| Device Metadata Store | `DeviceMetadataStore` | `5CE4A5E9-E4EB-479D-B89F-130C02886155` |
| Libraries | `Libraries` | `1B3EA5DC-B587-4786-B4EF-BD1DC332AEAE` |
| Public Libraries | `PublicLibraries` | `48DAF80B-E6CF-4F4E-B800-0E69D84EE384` |
| User Pinned | `UserPinned` | `9E3995AB-1F9C-4F13-B827-48B24B6C7174` |
| Implicit App Shortcuts | `ImplicitAppShortcuts` | `BCB5256F-79F6-4CEE-B725-DC34E402FD46` |
| Account Pictures | `AccountPictures` | `008CA0B1-55B4-4C56-B8A8-4DE4B299D3BE` |
| Public User Tiles | `PublicUserTiles` | `0482AF6C-08F1-4C34-8C90-E17EC98B1E17` |
| Apps | `AppsFolder` | `1E87508D-89C2-42F0-8A7E-645A0F50CA58` |
| All Programs | `StartMenuAllPrograms` | `F26305EF-6948-40B9-B255-81453D09C785` |
| Common Start Menu Places | `CommonStartMenuPlaces` | `A440879F-87A0-4F7D-B700-0207B966194A` |
| Application Shortcuts | `ApplicationShortcuts` | `A3918781-E5F2-4890-B3D9-A7E54332328C` |
| Roaming Tiles | `RoamingTiles` | `00BCFC5A-ED94-4E48-96A1-3F6217F21990` |
| Roamed Tile Images | `RoamedTileImages` | `AAA8D5A5-F1D6-4259-BAA8-78E7EF60835E` |
| Screenshots | `Screenshots` | `B7BEDE81-DF94-4682-A7D8-57A52620B86F` |
| Camera Roll | `CameraRoll` | `AB5FB87B-7CE2-4F83-915D-550846C9537B` |
| OneDrive | `OneDrive` | `A52BBA46-E9E1-435F-B3D9-28DAA648C0F6` |
| OneDrive Documents | `SkyDriveDocuments` | `24D89E24-2F19-4534-9DDE-6A6671FBB8FE` |
| OneDrive Pictures | `SkyDrivePictures` | `339719B5-8C47-4894-94C2-D8F77ADD44A6` |
| OneDrive Music | `SkyDriveMusic` | `C3F2459E-80D6-45DC-BFEF-1F769F2BE730` |
| OneDrive Camera Roll | `SkyDriveCameraRoll` | `767E6811-49CB-4273-87C2-20F355E1085B` |
| Search History | `SearchHistory` | `0D4C3DB6-03A3-462F-A0E6-08924C41B5D4` |
| Search Templates | `SearchTemplates` | `7E636BFE-DFA9-4D5E-B456-D7B39851D8A9` |
| Camera Roll Library | `CameraRollLibrary` | `2B20DF75-1EDA-4039-8097-38798227D5B7` |
| Saved Pictures | `SavedPictures` | `3B193882-D3AD-4EAB-965A-69829D1FB59F` |
| Saved Pictures Library | `SavedPicturesLibrary` | `E25B5812-BE88-4BD9-94B0-29233477B6C3` |
| Retail Demo | `RetailDemo` | `12D4C69E-24AD-4923-BE19-31321C43A767` |
| Device | `Device` | `1C2AC1DC-4358-4B6C-9733-AF21156576F0` |
| Development Files | `DevelopmentFiles` | `DBE8E08E-3053-4BBC-B183-2A7B2B191E59` |
| 3D Objects | `Objects3D` | `31C0DD25-9439-4F12-BF41-7FF4EDA38722` |
| Captures | `AppCaptures` | `EDC0FE71-98D8-4F4A-B920-C8DC133CB165` |
| Local Documents | `LocalDocuments` | `F42EE2D3-909F-4907-8871-4C22FC0BF756` |
| Local Pictures | `LocalPictures` | `0DDD015D-B06C-45D5-8C4C-F59713854639` |
| Local Videos | `LocalVideos` | `35286A68-3C57-41A1-BBB1-0EAE73D76C95` |
| Local Music | `LocalMusic` | `A0C69A99-21C8-4671-8703-7934162FCF1D` |
| Local Downloads | `LocalDownloads` | `7D83EE9B-2244-4E70-B1F5-5393042AF1E4` |
| Recorded Calls | `RecordedCalls` | `2F8B40C2-83ED-48EE-B383-A1F157EC6F9A` |
| All App Mods | `AllAppMods` | `7AD67899-66AF-43BA-9156-6AAD42E6C596` |
| Current App Mods | `CurrentAppMods` | `3DB40B20-2A30-4DBE-917E-771DD21DD099` |
| AppData Desktop | `AppDataDesktop` | `B2C5E279-7ADD-439F-B28C-C41FE1BBF672` |
| AppData Documents | `AppDataDocuments` | `7BE16610-1F7F-44AC-BFF0-83E15F2FFCA1` |
| AppData Favorites | `AppDataFavorites` | `7CFBEFBC-DE1F-45AA-B843-A542AC536CC9` |
| AppData ProgramData | `AppDataProgramData` | `559D40A3-A036-40FA-AF61-84CB430A4D34` |
| Local Storage | `LocalStorage` | `B3EB08D3-A1F3-496B-865A-42B536CDA0EC` |
### Folder Class Identifier (CLSID) Reference
Certain special folders within Windows are identified by unique strings called CLSIDs [3].
They include:
| Name | Internal Name | GUID |
|---------|---------------|------|
| Desktop | `CLSID_ThisPCDesktopRegFolder` | `B4BFCC3A-DB2C-424C-B029-7FE99A87C641` |
| Music | `CLSID_ThisPCMyMusicRegFolder` | `1CF1260C-4DD0-4ebb-811F-33C572699FDE` |
| Downloads | `CLSID_ThisPCDownloadsRegFolder` | `374DE290-123F-4565-9164-39C4925E467B` |
| Pictures | `CLSID_ThisPCMyPicturesRegFolder` | `3ADD1653-EB32-4cb0-BBD7-DFA0ABB5ACCA` |
| Videos | `CLSID_ThisPCMyVideosRegFolder` | `A0953C92-50DC-43bf-BE83-3742FED03C9C` |
| Documents | `CLSID_ThisPCDocumentsRegFolder` | `A8CDFF1C-4878-43be-B5FD-F8091C1C60D0` |
| Local Downloads | `CLSID_ThisPCLocalDownloadsRegFolder` | `088e3905-0323-4b02-9826-5d99428e115f` |
| Local Pictures | `CLSID_ThisPCLocalPicturesRegFolder` | `24ad3ad4-a569-4530-98e1-ab02f9417aa8` |
| Local Music | `CLSID_ThisPCLocalMusicRegFolder` | `3dfdf296-dbec-4fb4-81d1-6a3438bcf4de` |
| Local Videos | `CLSID_ThisPCLocalVideosRegFolder` | `f86fa3ab-70d2-4fc7-9c99-fcbf05467f3a` |
| Local Documents | `CLSID_ThisPCLocalDocumentsRegFolder` | `d3162b92-9365-467a-956b-92703aca08af` |
These CLSIDs can be inspected by running the following command.
The command displays their internal name as the default value on Windows 11 but not on Windows 10:
```powershell
$registryPath = "HKLM:\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\MyComputer\NameSpace"
$subkeys = Get-ChildItem -Path $registryPath
foreach ($key in $subkeys) {
# Get the key name (GUID)
$keyName = $key.PSChildName
# Get the (Default) value
$defaultValue = (Get-ItemProperty -Path $key.PSPath -Name "(default)" -ErrorAction Ignore)."(default)"
# Output the results
Write-Output "Key: $keyName"
Write-Output "Default Value: $defaultValue"
Write-Output "------------------------"
}
```
You can open a folder with CLSID using the following command:
```batchfile
start shell:::{CLSID}
```
[1]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240729151344/https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2022/06/09/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-25136/ "Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25136 | Windows Insider Blog | blogs.windows.com"
[2]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240803200324/https://github.com/privacysexy-forks/wdkmetadata/blob/99192741981aa7b7dc7db4aca3401f5d20496c91/generation/WDK/IdlHeaders/um/KnownFolders.h "wdkmetadata/generation/WDK/IdlHeaders/um/KnownFolders.h at 99192741981aa7b7dc7db4aca3401f5d20496c91 · privacysexy-forks/wdkmetadata · GitHub | github.com"
[3]: https://archive.ph/2023.07.18-200525/https://www.autohotkey.com/docs/v1/misc/CLSID-List.htm "CLSID List (Windows Class Identifiers) | AutoHotkey v1 | autohotkey.com"
children:
-
name: Remove "3D Objects" from dialog boxes
code: |-
reg add "HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{31C0DD25-9439-4F12-BF41-7FF4EDA38722}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Hide" /f
reg add "HKLM\Software\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{31C0DD25-9439-4F12-BF41-7FF4EDA38722}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Hide" /f
revertCode: |-
reg add "HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{31C0DD25-9439-4F12-BF41-7FF4EDA38722}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Show" /f
reg add "HKLM\Software\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{31C0DD25-9439-4F12-BF41-7FF4EDA38722}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Show" /f
name: Remove "Desktop" folder from This PC in File Explorer
docs: |- # refactor-with-variables: Same • Quick Access Productivity
This script hides the **Desktop** folder from **This PC** in **File Explorer**.
It improves privacy by hiding desktop contents, which often include personal files,
shortcuts, and temporary items.
This reduces the risk of accidentally revealing sensitive information when using
file dialogs.
However, this may impact your workflow if you frequently access desktop items this way.
The desktop remains visible and accessible by minimizing windows or using **File Explorer**.
This script hides the folder using these identifiers:
- Folder ID `B4BFCC3A-DB2C-424C-B029-7FE99A87C641` [1].
- CLSID `B4BFCC3A-DB2C-424C-B029-7FE99A87C641` [2].
On Windows 11, this script aligns with the system's default settings, as user folders
in **This PC** are hidden by default [3].
> **Caution**: This action enhances privacy but may require extra steps for access.
[1]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240803200324/https://github.com/privacysexy-forks/wdkmetadata/blob/99192741981aa7b7dc7db4aca3401f5d20496c91/generation/WDK/IdlHeaders/um/KnownFolders.h "wdkmetadata/generation/WDK/IdlHeaders/um/KnownFolders.h at 99192741981aa7b7dc7db4aca3401f5d20496c91 · privacysexy-forks/wdkmetadata · GitHub | github.com"
[2]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240118234902/https://www.elevenforum.com/t/add-or-remove-folders-under-this-pc-in-file-explorer-in-windows-11.7122/ "Add or Remove Folders under This PC in File Explorer in Windows 11 Tutorial | Windows 11 Forum | www.elevenforum.com"
[3]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240729151344/https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2022/06/09/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-25136/ "Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25136 | Windows Insider Blog | blogs.windows.com"
call:
-
name: Remove "Desktop" from dialog boxes
code: |-
reg add "HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{B4BFCC3A-DB2C-424C-B029-7FE99A87C641}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Hide" /f
reg add "HKLM\Software\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{B4BFCC3A-DB2C-424C-B029-7FE99A87C641}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Hide" /f
revertCode: |-
reg add "HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{B4BFCC3A-DB2C-424C-B029-7FE99A87C641}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Show" /f
reg add "HKLM\Software\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{B4BFCC3A-DB2C-424C-B029-7FE99A87C641}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Show" /f
function: HideExplorerThisPCFolderViaGuid
parameters:
folderId: 'B4BFCC3A-DB2C-424C-B029-7FE99A87C641'
# Check default: reg query HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{B4BFCC3A-DB2C-424C-B029-7FE99A87C641}\PropertyBag /v "ThisPCPolicy"
hideOnRevert: 'true' # Missing by default since Windows 10 Pro (≥ 22H2) and Windows 11 Pro (≥ 23H2)
-
name: Remove "Documents" from dialog boxes
code: |-
reg add "HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{f42ee2d3-909f-4907-8871-4c22fc0bf756}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Hide" /f
reg add "HKLM\Software\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{f42ee2d3-909f-4907-8871-4c22fc0bf756}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Hide" /f
revertCode: |-
reg add "HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{f42ee2d3-909f-4907-8871-4c22fc0bf756}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Show" /f
reg add "HKLM\Software\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{f42ee2d3-909f-4907-8871-4c22fc0bf756}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Show" /f
function: HideExplorerThisPCFolderViaClsid
parameters:
# Check: start shell:::{B4BFCC3A-DB2C-424C-B029-7FE99A87C641}
folderClsid: 'B4BFCC3A-DB2C-424C-B029-7FE99A87C641' # CLSID_ThisPCDesktopRegFolder
-
name: Remove "Downloads" from dialog boxes
code: |-
reg add "HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{7d83ee9b-2244-4e70-b1f5-5393042af1e4}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Hide" /f
reg add "HKLM\Software\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{7d83ee9b-2244-4e70-b1f5-5393042af1e4}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Hide" /f
revertCode: |-
reg add "HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{7d83ee9b-2244-4e70-b1f5-5393042af1e4}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Show" /f
reg add "HKLM\Software\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{7d83ee9b-2244-4e70-b1f5-5393042af1e4}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Show" /f
name: Remove "Documents" folder from This PC in File Explorer
docs: |- # refactor-with-variables: Same • Quick Access Productivity
This script hides the **Documents** folder from **This PC** in **File Explorer**.
It enhances privacy by hiding the **Documents** folder, which often contains personal and
sensitive files.
This action reduces the risk of accidental exposure of private information during common
file operations or when others briefly access your computer.
This change may disrupt your workflow if you often access files in the **Documents** folder
via these interfaces.
You can still access the **Documents** folder directly in **File Explorer** or via
application-specific **Open** and **Save** dialogs that do not use **This PC**.
This script hides the folder using these identifiers:
- Folder ID `f42ee2d3-909f-4907-8871-4c22fc0bf756` [1].
- CLSID `A8CDFF1C-4878-43be-B5FD-F8091C1C60D0` [2] [3].
- CLSID `d3162b92-9365-467a-956b-92703aca08af` [2].
On Windows 11, this script aligns with the system's default settings, as user folders
in **This PC** are hidden by default [4].
> **Caution**: This action enhances privacy but may require extra steps for access.
[1]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240803200324/https://github.com/privacysexy-forks/wdkmetadata/blob/99192741981aa7b7dc7db4aca3401f5d20496c91/generation/WDK/IdlHeaders/um/KnownFolders.h "wdkmetadata/generation/WDK/IdlHeaders/um/KnownFolders.h at 99192741981aa7b7dc7db4aca3401f5d20496c91 · privacysexy-forks/wdkmetadata · GitHub | github.com"
[2]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240118234902/https://www.elevenforum.com/t/add-or-remove-folders-under-this-pc-in-file-explorer-in-windows-11.7122/ "Add or Remove Folders under This PC in File Explorer in Windows 11 Tutorial | Windows 11 Forum | www.elevenforum.com"
[3]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240729215209/https://marslo.github.io/ibook/cheatsheet/windows/clsid.html "clsid · ibook | marslo.github.io"
[4]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240729151344/https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2022/06/09/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-25136/ "Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25136 | Windows Insider Blog | blogs.windows.com"
call:
-
name: Remove "Movies" from dialog boxes
code: |-
reg add "HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{35286a68-3c57-41a1-bbb1-0eae73d76c95}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Hide" /f
reg add "HKLM\Software\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{35286a68-3c57-41a1-bbb1-0eae73d76c95}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Hide" /f
revertCode: |-
reg add "HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{35286a68-3c57-41a1-bbb1-0eae73d76c95}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Show" /f
reg add "HKLM\Software\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{35286a68-3c57-41a1-bbb1-0eae73d76c95}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Show" /f
function: HideExplorerThisPCFolderViaGuid
parameters:
folderId: 'f42ee2d3-909f-4907-8871-4c22fc0bf756'
# Check default: reg query HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{f42ee2d3-909f-4907-8871-4c22fc0bf756}\PropertyBag /v "ThisPCPolicy"
showOnRevert: 'true' # Shown by default since Windows 10 Pro (≥ 22H2) and Windows 11 Pro (≥ 23H2)
-
name: Remove "Music" from dialog boxes
code: |-
reg add "HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{a0c69a99-21c8-4671-8703-7934162fcf1d}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Hide" /f
reg add "HKLM\Software\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{a0c69a99-21c8-4671-8703-7934162fcf1d}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Hide" /f
revertCode: |-
reg add "HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{a0c69a99-21c8-4671-8703-7934162fcf1d}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Show" /f
reg add "HKLM\Software\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{a0c69a99-21c8-4671-8703-7934162fcf1d}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Show" /f
function: HideExplorerThisPCFolderViaClsid
parameters:
# Check: start shell:::{A8CDFF1C-4878-43be-B5FD-F8091C1C60D0}
folderClsid: 'A8CDFF1C-4878-43be-B5FD-F8091C1C60D0' # CLSID_ThisPCDocumentsRegFolder
-
name: Remove "Pictures" from dialog boxes
code: |-
reg add "HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{0ddd015d-b06c-45d5-8c4c-f59713854639}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Hide" /f
reg add "HKLM\Software\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{0ddd015d-b06c-45d5-8c4c-f59713854639}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Hide" /f
revertCode: |-
reg add "HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{0ddd015d-b06c-45d5-8c4c-f59713854639}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Show" /f
reg add "HKLM\Software\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{0ddd015d-b06c-45d5-8c4c-f59713854639}\PropertyBag" /v "ThisPCPolicy" /t REG_SZ /d "Show" /f
function: HideExplorerThisPCFolderViaClsid
parameters:
# Check: start shell:::{d3162b92-9365-467a-956b-92703aca08af}
folderClsid: 'd3162b92-9365-467a-956b-92703aca08af' # CLSID_ThisPCLocalDocumentsRegFolder
-
name: Remove "Downloads" folder from This PC in File Explorer
docs: |- # refactor-with-variables: Same • Quick Access Productivity
This script hides the **Downloads** folder from **This PC** in **File Explorer**.
It enhances privacy by concealing your downloaded files from casual view, potentially
including sensitive documents, personal data, or temporary items.
This reduces the risk of unintentional exposure of potentially private information when
using common file dialogs.
However, this may affect your workflow if you frequently access downloaded
files through these interfaces. The **Downloads** folder remains accessible
through direct navigation in **File Explorer** or web browsers.
This script hides the folder using these identifiers:
- Folder ID `7d83ee9b-2244-4e70-b1f5-5393042af1e4` [1].
- CLSID `088e3905-0323-4b02-9826-5d99428e115f` [2].
- CLSID `374DE290-123F-4565-9164-39C4925E467B` [3].
On Windows 11, this script aligns with the system's default settings, as user folders
in **This PC** are hidden by default [4].
> **Caution**: This action enhances privacy but may require extra steps for access.
[1]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240803200324/https://github.com/privacysexy-forks/wdkmetadata/blob/99192741981aa7b7dc7db4aca3401f5d20496c91/generation/WDK/IdlHeaders/um/KnownFolders.h "wdkmetadata/generation/WDK/IdlHeaders/um/KnownFolders.h at 99192741981aa7b7dc7db4aca3401f5d20496c91 · privacysexy-forks/wdkmetadata · GitHub | github.com"
[2]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240118234902/https://www.elevenforum.com/t/add-or-remove-folders-under-this-pc-in-file-explorer-in-windows-11.7122/ "Add or Remove Folders under This PC in File Explorer in Windows 11 Tutorial | Windows 11 Forum | www.elevenforum.com"
[3]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240729215209/https://marslo.github.io/ibook/cheatsheet/windows/clsid.html "clsid · ibook | marslo.github.io"
[4]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240729151344/https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2022/06/09/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-25136/ "Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25136 | Windows Insider Blog | blogs.windows.com"
call:
-
function: HideExplorerThisPCFolderViaGuid
parameters:
folderId: '7d83ee9b-2244-4e70-b1f5-5393042af1e4'
# Check default: reg query HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{7d83ee9b-2244-4e70-b1f5-5393042af1e4}\PropertyBag /v "ThisPCPolicy"
showOnRevert: 'true' # Shown by default since Windows 10 Pro (≥ 22H2) and Windows 11 Pro (≥ 23H2)
-
function: HideExplorerThisPCFolderViaClsid
parameters:
# Check: start shell:::{088e3905-0323-4b02-9826-5d99428e115f}
folderClsid: '088e3905-0323-4b02-9826-5d99428e115f' # CLSID_ThisPCLocalDownloadsRegFolder
-
function: HideExplorerThisPCFolderViaClsid
parameters:
# Check: start shell:::{374DE290-123F-4565-9164-39C4925E467B}
folderClsid: '374DE290-123F-4565-9164-39C4925E467B' # CLSID_ThisPCDownloadsRegFolder
-
name: Remove "Videos"folder from This PC in File Explorer
docs: |- # refactor-with-variables: Same • Quick Access Productivity
This script hides the **Videos** folder from **This PC** in **File Explorer**.
It enhances privacy by hiding your video collection, which may contain personal or sensitive content.
This reduces the risk of inadvertently exposing private videos when using common file dialogs.
However, this change may affect your workflow if you frequently access video files through these interfaces.
You can still access the **Videos** folder directly in **File Explorer** or via media applications.
This script hides the folder using these identifiers:
- Folder ID `35286a68-3c57-41a1-bbb1-0eae73d76c95` [1].
- CLSID `f86fa3ab-70d2-4fc7-9c99-fcbf05467f3a` [2].
- CLSID `A0953C92-50DC-43bf-BE83-3742FED03C9C` [3].
On Windows 11, this script aligns with the system's default settings, as user folders
in **This PC** are hidden by default [4].
> **Caution**: This action enhances privacy but may require extra steps for access.
[1]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240803200324/https://github.com/privacysexy-forks/wdkmetadata/blob/99192741981aa7b7dc7db4aca3401f5d20496c91/generation/WDK/IdlHeaders/um/KnownFolders.h "wdkmetadata/generation/WDK/IdlHeaders/um/KnownFolders.h at 99192741981aa7b7dc7db4aca3401f5d20496c91 · privacysexy-forks/wdkmetadata · GitHub | github.com"
[2]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240118234902/https://www.elevenforum.com/t/add-or-remove-folders-under-this-pc-in-file-explorer-in-windows-11.7122/ "Add or Remove Folders under This PC in File Explorer in Windows 11 Tutorial | Windows 11 Forum | www.elevenforum.com"
[3]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240729215209/https://marslo.github.io/ibook/cheatsheet/windows/clsid.html "clsid · ibook | marslo.github.io"
[4]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240729151344/https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2022/06/09/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-25136/ "Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25136 | Windows Insider Blog | blogs.windows.com"
call:
-
function: HideExplorerThisPCFolderViaGuid
parameters:
folderId: '35286a68-3c57-41a1-bbb1-0eae73d76c95'
# Check default: reg query HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{35286a68-3c57-41a1-bbb1-0eae73d76c95}\PropertyBag /v "ThisPCPolicy"
showOnRevert: 'true' # Shown by default since Windows 10 Pro (≥ 22H2) and Windows 11 Pro (≥ 23H2)
-
function: HideExplorerThisPCFolderViaClsid
parameters:
# Check: start shell:::{f86fa3ab-70d2-4fc7-9c99-fcbf05467f3a}
folderClsid: 'f86fa3ab-70d2-4fc7-9c99-fcbf05467f3a' # CLSID_ThisPCLocalVideosRegFolder
-
function: HideExplorerThisPCFolderViaClsid
parameters:
# Check: start shell:::{A0953C92-50DC-43bf-BE83-3742FED03C9C}
folderClsid: 'A0953C92-50DC-43bf-BE83-3742FED03C9C' # CLSID_ThisPCMyVideosRegFolder
-
name: Remove "Music" folder from This PC in File Explorer
docs: |- # refactor-with-variables: Same • Quick Access Productivity
This script hides the **Music** folder from **This PC** in **File Explorer**.
It improves privacy by hiding your music collection, which may reflect
personal tastes or contain sensitive audio files. This reduces the risk
of unintentional exposure of private audio content when using common
file dialogs.
However, this may affect your workflow if you frequently access music
files through these interfaces. The **Music** folder remains accessible
through direct navigation in **File Explorer** or media players.
This script hides the folder using these identifiers:
- Folder ID `a0c69a99-21c8-4671-8703-7934162fcf1d` [1].
- CLSID `3dfdf296-dbec-4fb4-81d1-6a3438bcf4de` [2].
- CLSID `1CF1260C-4DD0-4ebb-811F-33C572699FDE` [2] [3].
On Windows 11, this script aligns with the system's default settings, as user folders
in **This PC** are hidden by default [4].
> **Caution**: This action enhances privacy but may require extra steps for access.
[1]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240803200324/https://github.com/privacysexy-forks/wdkmetadata/blob/99192741981aa7b7dc7db4aca3401f5d20496c91/generation/WDK/IdlHeaders/um/KnownFolders.h "wdkmetadata/generation/WDK/IdlHeaders/um/KnownFolders.h at 99192741981aa7b7dc7db4aca3401f5d20496c91 · privacysexy-forks/wdkmetadata · GitHub | github.com"
[2]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240118234902/https://www.elevenforum.com/t/add-or-remove-folders-under-this-pc-in-file-explorer-in-windows-11.7122/ "Add or Remove Folders under This PC in File Explorer in Windows 11 Tutorial | Windows 11 Forum | www.elevenforum.com"
[3]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240729215209/https://marslo.github.io/ibook/cheatsheet/windows/clsid.html "clsid · ibook | marslo.github.io"
[4]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240729151344/https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2022/06/09/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-25136/ "Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25136 | Windows Insider Blog | blogs.windows.com"
call:
-
function: HideExplorerThisPCFolderViaGuid
parameters:
folderId: 'a0c69a99-21c8-4671-8703-7934162fcf1d'
# Check default: reg query HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{a0c69a99-21c8-4671-8703-7934162fcf1d}\PropertyBag /v "ThisPCPolicy"
showOnRevert: 'true' # Shown by default since Windows 10 Pro (≥ 22H2) and Windows 11 Pro (≥ 23H2)
-
function: HideExplorerThisPCFolderViaClsid
parameters:
# Check: start shell:::{3dfdf296-dbec-4fb4-81d1-6a3438bcf4de}
folderClsid: '3dfdf296-dbec-4fb4-81d1-6a3438bcf4de' # CLSID_ThisPCLocalMusicRegFolder
-
function: HideExplorerThisPCFolderViaClsid
parameters:
# Check: start shell:::{1CF1260C-4DD0-4ebb-811F-33C572699FDE}
folderClsid: '1CF1260C-4DD0-4ebb-811F-33C572699FDE' # CLSID_ThisPCMyMusicRegFolder
-
name: Remove "Pictures" folder from This PC in File Explorer
docs: |- # refactor-with-variables: Same • Quick Access Productivity
This script hides the **Pictures** folder from **This PC** in **File Explorer**.
It enhances privacy by concealing your image collection, which may include personal
or sensitive photos.
This reduces the risk of accidentally revealing private images in common file dialogs.
However, it may impact your workflow if you frequently access picture files through
these interfaces.
The **Pictures** folder remains accessible via direct navigation in **File Explorer**
or image viewing applications.
This script hides the folder using these identifiers:
- Folder ID `0ddd015d-b06c-45d5-8c4c-f59713854639` [1].
- CLSID `24ad3ad4-a569-4530-98e1-ab02f9417aa8` [2].
- CLSID `3ADD1653-EB32-4cb0-BBD7-DFA0ABB5ACCA` [3].
On Windows 11, this script aligns with the system's default settings, as user folders
in **This PC** are hidden by default [4].
> **Caution**: This action enhances privacy but may require extra steps for access.
[1]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240803200324/https://github.com/privacysexy-forks/wdkmetadata/blob/99192741981aa7b7dc7db4aca3401f5d20496c91/generation/WDK/IdlHeaders/um/KnownFolders.h "wdkmetadata/generation/WDK/IdlHeaders/um/KnownFolders.h at 99192741981aa7b7dc7db4aca3401f5d20496c91 · privacysexy-forks/wdkmetadata · GitHub | github.com"
[2]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240118234902/https://www.elevenforum.com/t/add-or-remove-folders-under-this-pc-in-file-explorer-in-windows-11.7122/ "Add or Remove Folders under This PC in File Explorer in Windows 11 Tutorial | Windows 11 Forum | www.elevenforum.com"
[3]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240729215209/https://marslo.github.io/ibook/cheatsheet/windows/clsid.html "clsid · ibook | marslo.github.io"
[4]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240729151344/https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2022/06/09/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-25136/ "Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25136 | Windows Insider Blog | blogs.windows.com"
call:
-
function: HideExplorerThisPCFolderViaGuid
parameters:
folderId: '0ddd015d-b06c-45d5-8c4c-f59713854639'
# Check default: reg query HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{0ddd015d-b06c-45d5-8c4c-f59713854639}\PropertyBag /v "ThisPCPolicy"
showOnRevert: 'true' # Shown by default since Windows 10 Pro (≥ 22H2) and Windows 11 Pro (≥ 23H2)
-
function: HideExplorerThisPCFolderViaClsid
parameters:
# Check: start shell:::{24ad3ad4-a569-4530-98e1-ab02f9417aa8}
folderClsid: '24ad3ad4-a569-4530-98e1-ab02f9417aa8' # CLSID_ThisPCLocalPicturesRegFolder
-
function: HideExplorerThisPCFolderViaClsid
parameters:
# Check: start shell:::{3ADD1653-EB32-4cb0-BBD7-DFA0ABB5ACCA}
folderClsid: '3ADD1653-EB32-4cb0-BBD7-DFA0ABB5ACCA' # CLSID_ThisPCMyPicturesRegFolder
-
name: Remove outdated "3D Objects" folder from This PC in File Explorer
docs: |- # refactor-with-variables: Same • Quick Access Productivity
This script hides the **3D Objects** folder from **This PC** in **File Explorer**.
This script improves privacy as this folder may contain personal projects or designs.
This action reduces the risk of unintentional sharing of potentially sensitive 3D
models or related files.
Microsoft removed this folder in Windows 10 Build 21322 and later versions [1].
If you often use the **3D Objects** folder, this change may affect your workflow.
The folder remains accessible through direct navigation in **File Explorer**.
This script hides the folder using these identifiers:
- Folder ID `31C0DD25-9439-4F12-BF41-7FF4EDA38722` [2].
- CLSID `0DB7E03F-FC29-4DC6-9020-FF41B59E513A` [3] [4].
On Windows 11, this script aligns with the system's default settings, as user folders
in **This PC** are hidden by default [5].
> **Caution**: This action enhances privacy but may require extra steps for access.
[1]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240729214345/https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2021/02/24/announcing-windows-10-insider-preview-build-21322/ "Announcing Windows 10 Insider Preview Build 21322 | Windows Insider Blog | blogs.windows.com"
[2]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240803200324/https://github.com/privacysexy-forks/wdkmetadata/blob/99192741981aa7b7dc7db4aca3401f5d20496c91/generation/WDK/IdlHeaders/um/KnownFolders.h "wdkmetadata/generation/WDK/IdlHeaders/um/KnownFolders.h at 99192741981aa7b7dc7db4aca3401f5d20496c91 · privacysexy-forks/wdkmetadata · GitHub | github.com"
[3]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240225155108/https://www.winhelponline.com/blog/remove-3d-objects-folder-pc-windows-10/ "Remove 3D Objects Folder from This PC in Windows 10 » Winhelponline | www.winhelponline.com"
[4]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240118234902/https://www.elevenforum.com/t/add-or-remove-folders-under-this-pc-in-file-explorer-in-windows-11.7122/ "Add or Remove Folders under This PC in File Explorer in Windows 11 Tutorial | Windows 11 Forum | www.elevenforum.com"
[5]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240729151344/https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2022/06/09/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-25136/ "Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25136 | Windows Insider Blog | blogs.windows.com"
call:
-
function: HideExplorerThisPCFolderViaGuid
parameters:
folderId: '31C0DD25-9439-4F12-BF41-7FF4EDA38722'
# Check default: reg query HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{31C0DD25-9439-4F12-BF41-7FF4EDA38722}\PropertyBag /v "ThisPCPolicy"
hideOnRevert: 'true' # Missing by default since Windows 10 Pro (≥ 22H2) and Windows 11 Pro (≥ 23H2)
-
function: HideExplorerThisPCFolderViaClsid
parameters:
# Check: start shell:::{0DB7E03F-FC29-4DC6-9020-FF41B59E513A}
folderClsid: '0DB7E03F-FC29-4DC6-9020-FF41B59E513A'
-
name: Disable app usage tracking
recommend: standard
@@ -28552,37 +29014,76 @@ functions:
- name: keyPath # Full path of the subkey or entry to be deleted. No glob/wildcard interpretation.
- name: replaceSid # Replaces "$CURRENT_USER_SID" string in registry key with user SID.
optional: true
- name: recreateOnRevert # If true, recreates the deleted registry key when reverting the action.
optional: true
- name: codeComment
optional: true
- name: maximumWindowsVersion # See `RunPowerShellWithWindowsVersionConstraints`
optional: true
call:
-
function: Comment
parameters:
codeComment: >-
Remove the registry key "{{ $keyPath }}"
{{ with $codeComment }}({{ . }}){{ end }}
revertCodeComment: >-
Recreate the registry key "{{ $keyPath }}"
-
# Marked: refactor-with-variables
# - Replacing SID is same as `CreateRegistryKey`
# - Registry path construction with hive is same as `DeleteRegistryValue` and `CreateRegistryKey`
function: RunPowerShell
function: RunPowerShellWithWindowsVersionConstraints
parameters:
codeComment: '{{ with $codeComment }}{{ . }}{{ end }}'
maximumWindowsVersion: '{{ with $maximumWindowsVersion }}{{ . }}{{ end }}'
code: |-
$keyPath='{{ $keyPath }}'
$registryHive = $keyPath.Split('\')[0]
$registryKey = "$($registryHive):$($keyPath.Substring($registryHive.Length))"
$registryPath = "$($registryHive):$($keyPath.Substring($registryHive.Length))"
{{ with $replaceSid }}
$userSid = (New-Object System.Security.Principal.NTAccount($env:USERNAME)).Translate([Security.Principal.SecurityIdentifier]).Value
$registryKey = $registryKey.Replace('$CURRENT_USER_SID', $userSid)
$registryPath = $registryPath.Replace('$CURRENT_USER_SID', $userSid)
{{ end }}
if (-not (Test-Path -LiteralPath $registryKey)) {
Write-Host "Skipping, no action needed, registry key `"$registryKey`" does not exist."
Write-Host "Removing registry key at `"$registryPath`"."
if (-not (Test-Path -LiteralPath $registryPath)) {
Write-Host "Skipping, no action needed, registry key `"$registryPath`" does not exist."
exit 0
}
try {
Remove-Item `
-LiteralPath $registryKey `
-LiteralPath $registryPath `
-Force `
-ErrorAction Stop `
| Out-Null
Write-Host "Successfully removed the registry key at path `"$registryKey`"."
Write-Host "Successfully removed the registry key at path `"$registryPath`"."
} catch {
Write-Error "Failed to remove the registry key at path `"$registryKey`": $($_.Exception.Message)"
Write-Error "Failed to remove the registry key at path `"$registryPath`": $($_.Exception.Message)"
}
revertCode: |-
{{ with $recreateOnRevert }}
$keyPath='{{ $keyPath }}'
$registryHive = $keyPath.Split('\')[0]
$registryPath = "$($registryHive):$($keyPath.Substring($registryHive.Length))"
{{ with $replaceSid }}
$userSid = (New-Object System.Security.Principal.NTAccount($env:USERNAME)).Translate([Security.Principal.SecurityIdentifier]).Value
$registryPath = $registryPath.Replace('$CURRENT_USER_SID', $userSid)
{{ end }}
Write-Host "Restoring registry key at `"$registryPath`"."
if (Test-Path -LiteralPath $registryPath) {
Write-Host "Skipping, no action needed, registry key `"$registryPath`" already exists."
Exit 0
}
try {
New-Item `
-Path $registryPath `
-Force -ErrorAction Stop `
| Out-Null
Write-Host "Successfully created the registry key at path `"$registryPath`"."
} catch {
Write-Error "Failed to create registry key `"$registryPath`": $($_.Exception.Message)"
Exit 1
}
{{ end }}
-
name: ShowExplorerRestartSuggestion
call:
@@ -30092,10 +30593,10 @@ functions:
-Path $registryPath `
-Force -ErrorAction Stop `
| Out-Null
Write-Host "Registry key `"$registryPath`" was created."
Write-Host "Successfully created the registry key at path `"$registryPath`"."
} catch {
Write-Error "Failed to create registry key `"$registryPath`": $($_.Exception.Message)"
Exit 0
Exit 1
}
}
$currentValue = Get-ItemProperty `
@@ -30157,3 +30658,138 @@ functions:
Write-Error "Failed to remove the registry value `"$valueName`" at path `"$registryPath`": $($_.Exception.Message)"
}
{{ end }}
-
name: HideExplorerThisPCFolderViaClsid # ❗ This method is not reliable on Windows 11, prioritize `HideExplorerThisPCFolderViaGuid`
parameters:
- name: folderClsid # A GUID representing a CLSID for a specific folder, used in Windows registry operations
docs: |-
This function hides specific folders from the "This PC" view in Windows Explorer using their CLSIDs.
The script uses CLSIDs (Class Identifiers) that represent special folders in the OS [1].
These CLSIDs can be opened and tested using [2]:
```batchfile
explorer.exe shell:::{CLSID}
```
Script behavior differs based on the Windows version.
### Windows 11
On Windows 11, it sets:
- `HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\MyComputer\NameSpace\{<Folder CLSID>}!HiddenByDefault` [3]
- `HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\MyComputer\NameSpace\{<Folder CLSID>}!HideIfEnabled` [3]
Community reports suggest that the `HiddenByDefault` and `HideIfEnabled` method is effective only on certain Windows 11 versions [3].
### Windows 10 and below
On Windows 10 and below, it deletes (only working configuration, tested since Windows 10 Pro ≥ 22H2):
- `HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\MyComputer\NameSpace\{<Folder CLSID>}` [4]
- `HKLM\SOFTWARE\WOW6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\MyComputer\NameSpace\{<Folder CLSID>}` [4]
This method is reported to have also worked on Windows 8.1 [4].
Tests show that setting this value requires restarting `explorer.exe` on Windows 10.
[1]: https://archive.ph/2023.07.18-200525/https://www.autohotkey.com/docs/v1/misc/CLSID-List.htm "CLSID List (Windows Class Identifiers) | AutoHotkey v1 | autohotkey.com"
[2]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240729215209/https://marslo.github.io/ibook/cheatsheet/windows/clsid.html "clsid · ibook | marslo.github.io"
[3]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240118234902/https://www.elevenforum.com/t/add-or-remove-folders-under-this-pc-in-file-explorer-in-windows-11.7122/ "Add or Remove Folders under This PC in File Explorer in Windows 11 Tutorial | Windows 11 Forum | www.elevenforum.com"
[4]: https://web.archive.org/web/20161020161850/https://pricklytech.wordpress.com/2013/10/17/windows-8-1-x64-removing-the-folders-from-file-explorer/ "Windows 8.1 x64 – Removing the Folders from File Explorer | Michael Lane's Technology Blog | pricklytech.wordpress.com"
call:
-
function: DeleteRegistryKey
parameters:
keyPath: HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\MyComputer\NameSpace\{{{ $folderClsid }}}
recreateOnRevert: 'true'
maximumWindowsVersion: Windows10-MostRecent # No action needed on Windows 11
-
function: DeleteRegistryKey
parameters:
keyPath: HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\MyComputer\NameSpace\{{{ $folderClsid }}}
recreateOnRevert: 'true'
maximumWindowsVersion: Windows10-MostRecent # No action needed on Windows 11
-
function: SetRegistryValue
parameters:
keyPath: HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\MyComputer\NameSpace\{{{ $folderClsid }}}
valueName: 'HiddenByDefault'
dataType: REG_DWORD
data: '1' # It hides on Windows 11 Pro (≥ 23H2) 11, this is the default behavior but this value is missing by default
deleteOnRevert: 'true' # Missing on Windows 10 Pro (≥ 22H2) and Windows 11 Pro (≥ 23H2)
minimumWindowsVersion: Windows11-FirstRelease # `HiddenByDefault` has no effect Windows 10
-
function: SetRegistryValue
parameters:
keyPath: HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\MyComputer\NameSpace\{{{ $folderClsid }}}
valueName: 'HideIfEnabled'
dataType: REG_DWORD
data: '0x22ab9b9' # Default value on Windows 11 Pro (≥ 23H2) 11, it hides
# dataOnRevert: '0x22ab9b9' # Default value: Missing on Windows 10 Pro (≥ 22H2) | `0x22ab9b9` on Windows 11 Pro (≥ 23H2) # Not yet supported
minimumWindowsVersion: Windows11-FirstRelease # `HideIfEnabled` has no effect Windows 10
-
function: ShowExplorerRestartSuggestion
-
name: HideExplorerThisPCFolderViaGuid # See also `HideExplorerThisPCFolderViaClsid`
parameters:
- name: folderId # A GUID representing a specific folder in the registry
- name: showOnRevert # If true, sets the folder to 'Show' when reverting changes
optional: true
- name: hideOnRevert # If true, deletes the registry value when reverting changes
optional: true
docs: |-
This function removes shortcuts from "This PC" in Explorer [1] [2].
It does not affect shortcuts in "Quick Access"[1].
This function sets the default behavior on Windows 11, as user folders from "This PC"
have already been removed [3].
Microsoft documents folder IDs in their source code [4].
The script modifies these registry keys:
- `HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{<Folder GUID>}\PropertyBag!ThisPCPolicy`:
Hides folder at machine level [1] [2].
- `HKLM\Software\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{<Folder GUID>}\PropertyBag!ThisPCPolicy`:
Same as above, but for 64-bit OS [2].
- `HKCU\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\HideMyComputerIcons!{<Folder GUID>}`:
Hides folders at user level [1].
One must restart Explorer (`explorer.exe`) for changes to take affect [3].
This has been verified by tests on Windows 10 Pro (≥ 22H2).
[1]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240729130512/https://superuser.com/questions/1470599/hide-3d-objects-from-this-pc/1470630#1470630 "windows 10 - Hide "3D Objects" from "This PC" - Super User | superuser.com"
[2]: https://web.archive.org/web/20200921094814/https://liquidwarelabs.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/210638663-Windows-10-local-shell-folders-are-not-hidden-after-redirection-causing-Location-is-not-available-error-OR-ProfileDisk-will-show-these-shorts-using-local-ProfileDisk-path "Windows 10 local shell folders are not hidden after redirection causing \"Location is not available\" error, OR ProfileDisk will show these shorts using local ProfileDisk path – Liquidware Customer Support | liquidwarelabs.zendesk.com"
[3]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240729151344/https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2022/06/09/announcing-windows-11-insider-preview-build-25136/ "Announcing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25136 | Windows Insider Blog | blogs.windows.com"
[4]: https://web.archive.org/web/20240803200324/https://github.com/privacysexy-forks/wdkmetadata/blob/99192741981aa7b7dc7db4aca3401f5d20496c91/generation/WDK/IdlHeaders/um/KnownFolders.h "wdkmetadata/generation/WDK/IdlHeaders/um/KnownFolders.h at 99192741981aa7b7dc7db4aca3401f5d20496c91 · privacysexy-forks/wdkmetadata · GitHub | github.com"
call:
-
function: SetRegistryValue
parameters:
keyPath: HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{{{ $folderId }}}\PropertyBag
valueName: ThisPCPolicy
dataType: REG_SZ
data: 'Hide'
deleteOnRevert: '{{ with $hideOnRevert }}true{{ end }}' # By default, this value does not exist if the item is hidden since Windows 10 Pro (≥ 22H2) and Windows 11 Pro (≥ 23H2)
# dataOnRevert: '{{ with $showOnRevert }}Show{{ end }}' # Not yet supported
-
function: SetRegistryValue
parameters:
keyPath: HKLM\Software\Wow6432Node\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\FolderDescriptions\{{{ $folderId }}}\PropertyBag
valueName: ThisPCPolicy
dataType: REG_SZ
data: Hide
deleteOnRevert: '{{ with $hideOnRevert }}true{{ end }}' # By default, this value does not exist if the item is hidden since Windows 10 Pro (≥ 22H2) and Windows 11 Pro (≥ 23H2)
# dataOnRevert: '{{ with $showOnRevert }}Show{{ end }}' # Not yet supported
-
function: SetRegistryValue
parameters:
keyPath: HKCU\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\HideMyComputerIcons
valueName: '{{{ $folderId }}}'
dataType: REG_DWORD
data: '1'
deleteOnRevert: 'true' # Missing key since Windows 10 Pro (≥ 22H2) and Windows 11 Pro (≥ 23H2)
-
function: ShowExplorerRestartSuggestion