7 Ways to Open the AppsFolder in Windows 11 (2024)

AppsFolder is a special folder on Windows that stores installed applications and programs. It includes built-in apps and software you download from Microsoft Stores or other places.

But how do you access and manage the AppsFolder on Windows? Read this guide to find out.

1. How to Open AppsFolder Using Run Command

You can use the Run command to quickly open programs and files on your computer. Here's how to do it:

1. Press Win + R to open the Run command.
2. Type shell:AppsFolder into the text field and hit Enter.

   

The AppsFolder opens up in its own window, where you can view and manage the applications installed on your computer.

2. How to Open AppsFolder Using File Explorer

If you're using File Explorer, you don't even need the Run command. You can access AppsFolder directly from File Explorer. Here's how:

1. Open the File Explorer window.
2. In the address bar, type shell:AppsFolder and press Enter.

The AppsFolder window appears on your screen. You can even drag and drop files and folders from other locations into the AppsFolder.

3. How to Open AppsFolder Using Task Manager

Task Manager monitors and manages running processes and resource utilization on your Windows computer. To open the AppsFolder using Task Manager, follow these steps:

1. Right-click on your taskbar and select Task Manager from the list.
2. In the Task Manager window, click Run new task at the top of the screen.
3. Type shell:AppsFolder in the dialog box and click OK.

   

The AppsFolder window shows all the programs and apps installed on your computer.

4. How to Open AppsFolder Using Command Prompt

If you're comfortable with Command Prompt, you can use it to open the AppsFolder. Here's how:

1. Press Win + S to open Windows Search.
2. Type Command Prompt and click on the result to open it.
3. In the Command Prompt window, type Explorer Shell:AppsFolder​ and press Enter.

   

   See Also

   Windows Shell Tutorial

5. How to Open AppsFolder Using Windows PowerShell

Windows PowerShell is also a command-line tool, and you can use it to open the AppsFolder. Follow these steps:

1. Click on Start and type PowerShell in the search bar.
2. Select Windows PowerShell from the results list.
3. Once the Windows PowerShell window appears, type Explorer Shell:AppsFolder and press Enter.

   

That's it! The AppsFolder window opens with all your installed applications listed inside.

6. How to Open AppsFolder Using a Desktop Shortcut

You can also create a desktop shortcut to the AppsFolder for easy access. Here's how to do it:

1. Right-click on your Desktop and select New > Shortcut. This opens the Create Shortcut window.
2. Type Explorer Shell:AppsFolder in the Location box and click Next.

   

3. Name your shortcut like “Apps Folder” or whatever you want to call it, and click Finish.

   

You'll see an Apps Folder shortcut icon appear on your desktop. Double-click it to open the AppsFolder window and manage your apps.

7. How to Open AppsFolder Using a Shortcut Key

To quickly open the AppsFolder, you can use a keyboard shortcut. This method is preferred for those who use shortcuts frequently. Here's how to do it:

1. Create a desktop shortcut for the AppsFolder. We've already discussed how to do that earlier.
2. Right-click on the Shortcut icon and select Properties.
3. Click in the Shortcut key field and type a single character key like F, T, or whatever you want.

   

The shortcut key will appear next to the Ctrl + Alt options. You can now quickly open the AppsFolder with this keyboard shortcut.

Getting to the AppsFolder Quickly on Windows

Hopefully, now it's clear how to open the AppsFolder in Windows. It's pretty easy; you only need a few clicks or keyboard shortcuts to access it. So, if you ever need to manage the installed applications on your computer or make changes, open the AppsFolder and get started.