Windows 10: External drives are duplicated in File Explorer on Windows 11.

When either USB flash drives or external hard drives for backup are plugged in any of the USB ports, they show up as duplicates in File Explorer. I have been having problems with Windows Backup, and it may be confused by this.

:)

 

Windows 11 File Explorer not showing external drive

If Windows 11 File Explorer is not showing an external drive that is connected to your device, there are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue:

1. Check the connection: Make sure that the external drive is properly connected to your device. Try unplugging and replugging the drive, or connecting it to a different USB port.
   
2. Check Disk Management: Open Disk Management by pressing Windows key + X, then selecting Disk Management. Look for the external drive in the list of drives. If it appears but has no drive letter assigned, right-click on it and select "Change Drive Letter and Paths". Assign a drive letter to the external drive, and then check if it appears in File Explorer.
   
3. Update drivers: Make sure that your device's drivers are up to date, particularly the drivers for your USB ports. Use the Device Manager to check for any outdated or malfunctioning drivers, and update or reinstall them as needed.
   
4. Check power supply: If the external drive requires a separate power supply, make sure it is properly connected and functioning.
   
5. Test on another device: Try connecting the external drive to another device to see if it appears in File Explorer. This will help determine if the issue is with the drive itself or your device.
   

By following these steps, you may be able to resolve the issue of Windows 11 File Explorer not showing an external drive.

 

External Hard Drive listed twice in Windows Explorer Windows 11 Pro

Hi there,

Here's the registry fix you need.

External Drives Listed Twice (Duplicate) in File Explorer Navigation Pane

 

File Explorer for Windows 10 shows Duplicate External Drive Folders/Files

Windows has recreated the key. I've just found another way to hide the duplicate removable drives. You can download the REG file here.

Drives Listed Twice in Explorer Navigation Pane (Fix) » Winhelponline

http://www.winhelponline.com/blog/drives-listed-twice-explorer-navigation-pane/

You need to logoff and login back for the changes the take effect.

(There is also a UNDO file if you want to revert back the setting.)