Understanding the structure of files and folders in Windows 11 is an important step for any user who wants to optimize the experience of using this operating system. With in-depth knowledge of how files and folders are organized, users can more easily manage data, perform system maintenance, and resolve issues that may arise.
The structure of files and folders in Windows 11 not only affects how we access and store data but also plays an important role in overall system performance. For example, folders such as System Volume Information and ProgramData store crucial information necessary for system recovery and application operation. Knowing the location and function of these folders can help users in performing more effective troubleshooting and maintenance.
Folder Root Windows
The folders inside the C:\ drive vary depending on the software and features installed. However, there are a few folders that are common to all PCs:
MSOCache
MSOCache folder only exists on systems with Microsoft Office 2007 or later versions installed. This folder stores the installation files for the Office suite that are required in case the installed apps need to be repaired.
For example, if you’re having trouble with the Office app and need to fix it, Windows will use the installation file stored on the MSOCache to restore the app to a working state.
ProgramData
The ProgramData folder stores win32 app data that applies to all users on the PC. This includes configuration files and other files that are required for the app to run.
For example, the Adobe Creative Cloud app stores configuration and preferences files on the ProgramData so that they can be accessed by all users logged in to the same PC.
System Volume Information
The System Volume Information folders are located on all hard disks and are used by the System Restore and File History features. This folder stores archived and encrypted versions of critical system files, such as Registry, and files that change when the application is installed. This allows System Restore to restore the system to a previous restore point if needed.
For example, if a Windows update is causing problems, System Restore can use the archive files in System Volume Information to restore the system to its pre-update state.
Win32 App Folders and Store
The app folder in Windows 11 is divided into categories that are important for understanding where apps are installed and how to manage them. The following is an explanation of the Program Files, WindowsApps, and Packages folders.
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Program Files and Program Files (x86)
The Program Files and Program Files (x86) folders are the main locations where desktop applications are installed in Windows.
The difference between these two folders:
- Program Files: This folder is used to install 64-bit apps. All applications designed to run on the 64-bit architecture will be installed here.
- Program Files (x86): This folder only exists on versions 64-bit of Windows and is used for 32-bit apps. This is a legacy of previous versions of Windows that supported 32-bit apps.
Examples of apps that are typically installed in each folder:
- Program Files: Applications such as Adobe Photoshop and Microsoft Visual Studio designed for 64-bit architectures.
- Program Files (x86): Apps such as Microsoft Office 2016 (32-bit version) and some games that still use the 32-bit architecture.
Program Files\WindowsApps
The Program Files\WindowsApps folder is the installation location for all apps downloaded from the Microsoft Store.
This folder is so protected by the operating system, that even the local Administrator account cannot access it directly. It is designed to protect the integrity of the app and user data.
Apps such as Spotify, Netflix, and Microsoft Solitaire Collection downloaded via Microsoft Store will be installed in this folder.
Packages
The Packages folder is the location where Microsoft Store apps are installed on each user account.
This folder is located at Users\[UserName]\AppData\Local\Packages. Each app downloaded from the Microsoft Store has a subfolder inside the Packages that stores all the files needed to run the app.
If you have large apps like Microsoft Flight Simulator installed, you can copy the installation folder from Packages to another PC. This way, you don’t have to re-download a large app, just make sure that it is compatible with the system on the destination PC. You can use the %localappdata%\Packages address to quickly access this folder.