Can’t create a new folder on Windows 11? Is your device throwing an error while you’re trying to do the same? Yes, this is utterly annoying. Well, if you are unable to create a new folder on Windows, it may not just hamper your workflow or stop you from organizing your files but also indicates an underlying problem.
Some of the most common reasons why you may not be able to create a new folder or directory on your Windows PC include restricted permissions, limited storage space, misconfigured security settings, or the presence of a virus or malware on your device. But the good thing is that you can easily troubleshoot this issue on your own by making a few quick changes to your device’s settings.
In this post, we have listed a handful of solutions that you can use for fixing the “Can’t create a new folder on Windows 11” error.
Let’s get started.
Also read: 6 Ways to Empty the Recycle Bin in Windows 11
How to Fix Can’t Create a New Folder on Windows 11
Solution 1: Relaunch the File Explorer App
Restarting the File Explorer app with the help of Windows Task Manager can help you fix this issue within no time. Here’s what you need to do:
Press the Control + Shift + Escape key combination to open the Task Manager app on Windows 11. Switch to the “Processes” tab.
Now, look for the “Windows Explorer” app in the list, right-click on it and select “Restart” to terminate and reboot the application.
Once the Windows Explorer app relaunches, right-click anywhere on the blank screen and select New>Folder to check if the issue was resolved.
Also read: How To Rename Your Windows 11 PC?
Solution 2: Use the Keyboard Shortcuts
Did you know you could also use keyboard shortcuts to create a new folder on Windows? Yes, you heard that right. As an alternative method, press the Control + Shift + N key combination to create a new folder on Windows 11.
Solution 3: Edit the Windows Registry
Press the Windows + R key combination to open the Run dialog box, type “Regedit” and hit Enter to open the Registry Editor.
In the Registry Editor window, navigate to the following folder location:
Computer\HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Directory\Background\shellex\ContextMenuHandlers
Right-click anywhere on the right side of the window and select New> Key. double-tap on the newly created key to open Properties. Enter the following string in the Value Data field:
{D969A300-E7FF-11d0-A93B-00A0C90F2719}
Tap on the OK button.
Exit all windows, reboot your device, and launch the File Explorer app to check if you are still facing the same issues while creating a new folder or directory on Windows.
Also read: How to Force Delete a Folder or File on Windows 11
Solution 4: Use the Command Prompt App to Create New Folders
Tap on the search icon placed on the Taskbar and type “Command Prompt”. Select “Run as administrator” to launch CMD in Admin mode.
In the Terminal window, type the following command to create a new folder on Windows:
Mkdir <Foldername>
Solution 5: Run a Security Scan
Tap on the search icon placed on the Taskbar and type “Windows Security”. Hit Enter to launch the Windows Security app on your device.
Switch to the “Virus and threat protection” section from the left menu pane.
Tap on “Scan Options”.
Select “Full Scan” so that Windows can perform a thorough scan of your device to look for traces of viruses or malware.
Hit on the “Scan now” button to proceed.
Solution 6: Configure the Security Settings
Launch the Settings app, and switch to the “Privacy and Security” section from the left menu pane. Tap on “Windows Security”.
Select “Virus and threat protection”.
Tap on “Manage Ransomware Protection”.
Toggle off the “Controlled Folder Access” option.
Reboot your device and check if the issue was resolved.
Solution 7: Restore the File Explorer App
Here comes another quick fix to resolve the “Can’t create a new folder on Windows 11” error. Restoring the File Explorer app to its default settings can help you overcome this issue within no time.
Launch the File Explorer app, and tap on the three-dot icons placed on the top. Select “Options”.
The Properties window will now appear on the screen. Tap on the “Restore Defaults” button.
Hit the OK and Apply buttons to save the recent changes.
Reboot your device, relaunch the File Explorer app, and try creating a new folder to see if the issue persists.
Also read: How to Clear Clipboard History in Windows 11
Conclusion
Here are a few simple workarounds that you can try if you are unable to create a new folder on Windows 11. Also, make sure that your device has a sufficient amount of available storage space for the new folder to be created.
Do let us know which method worked out best for you. Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section! You can also find us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, Flipboard, and Pinterest.