How to Change Default Install Location in Windows 11: A Guide

When you install apps or games on Windows 11, they usually default to the C: drive. While this is fine for small apps, it can quickly fill up your system drive if you install large games or software. Changing the default install location helps manage storage and keeps your system drive running smoothly.

In this guide, we’ll cover all the ways to change the default install location on Windows 11, whether for Microsoft Store apps, desktop apps, or games. By the end, you’ll know how to keep your files organized and save space on your C: drive.

Table of Contents

Why Change the Default Install Location?

Before diving into steps, here’s why it’s useful:

Free up space on C: drive – Avoid slowing down your system.
Organize apps and games – Keep them on a dedicated storage drive.
Use larger drives effectively – Install big games on SSDs or secondary HDDs.
Reduce system maintenance – Less clutter on your system drive improves performance.

Step 1: Change Default Install Location for Microsoft Store Apps

Windows 11 makes it easy to redirect Microsoft Store app installs to another drive.

Press Win + I to open Settings.
Go to System > Storage.
Scroll down and click Advanced storage settings > Where new content is saved.
Under New apps will save to, choose your preferred drive from the dropdown.
Click Apply.

From now on, any new Store apps will install to your chosen drive. Existing apps stay where they are.

Step 2: Change Default Install Location for Desktop Apps

For traditional .exe or .msi apps, most installers allow you to choose the install folder during setup:

Start the installer for the app.
Look for Custom Install or Advanced Options.
Change the install path from C:\Program Files to your desired drive (e.g., D:\Apps).
Complete the installation.

Tip: Always use Custom Install to avoid clogging your system drive.

Step 3: Move Existing Apps to Another Drive

Windows 11 allows moving some apps without uninstalling them:

Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
Find the app you want to move.
Click the three dots (•••) > Move.
Select the new drive and click Move.

Note: This works mostly for Microsoft Store apps. Traditional desktop apps usually require reinstallation to move.

Step 4: Change Default Install Location for Games

Xbox or Microsoft Store Games

Open Settings > Gaming > Xbox Game Pass / Xbox App.
Look for Install locations.
Choose a new drive for game installations.

Steam Games

Open Steam and go to Settings > Downloads > Steam Library Folders.
Click Add Library Folder on your preferred drive.
Select this folder when installing new games.

Most game launchers like Epic Games, Origin, or Ubisoft Connect also allow you to pick installation paths in their settings.

Step 5: Use Registry (Advanced Method)

For power users, you can change the default Windows install path via Registry (applies mainly to new desktop apps):

Press Win + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
Navigate to:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion
Find the ProgramFilesDir entry.
Double-click and change the path to your preferred drive (e.g., D:\Program Files).
Restart your PC.

⚠️ Be careful editing the registry. Backup first! Incorrect changes can cause system issues.

Step 6: Tips to Optimize Storage While Changing Install Locations

Use SSD for apps and games for faster performance.
Use HDD for large files like videos and backups.
Regularly clean your C: drive using Storage Sense (Settings > System > Storage).
Move large apps and games periodically if one drive is filling up.

Common Problems and Fixes

1. Some apps won’t move:

Only Microsoft Store apps allow “Move” in Settings. Desktop apps need reinstallation.

2. Changing default drive doesn’t apply to existing apps:

Correct. Only new apps will install to the new drive. Existing apps remain.

3. Registry method caused apps to fail:

Undo changes or restore from a registry backup.

4. Games still default to C: drive:

Check the game launcher settings (Steam, Epic, Ubisoft, Xbox).

Conclusion

Changing the default install location in Windows 11 is a simple way to manage storage and improve system performance. Whether it’s Microsoft Store apps, desktop applications, or games, you have multiple options to choose the right drive.

Use Settings for Store apps.
Use Custom Install or reinstall apps for desktop programs.
Adjust game launcher settings for games.
Power users can tweak the registry, but caution is needed.

By managing installation paths properly, you’ll keep your C: drive clutter-free, improve system speed, and avoid running out of storage for your important apps and games.

FAQs

Q1. Will changing the default install location move existing apps?
No, it only applies to newly installed apps. Existing apps must be moved manually or reinstalled.

Q2. Can I move Steam or Epic Games to another drive?
Yes, both Steam and Epic Games Launcher allow custom installation paths in their settings.

Q3. Is it safe to change ProgramFilesDir in the registry?
Yes, if done carefully. Always backup the registry before making changes.

Q4. Can Microsoft Store apps be installed on external drives?
Yes, Windows 11 allows installing Store apps on internal and external drives, including SSDs and HDDs.

Q5. Does moving apps affect their functionality?
Microsoft Store apps will work fine after moving via Settings. Desktop apps may need reinstallation if moved manually.