Hi Camden,
Thank you for reaching out Microsoft Answers. I understand how frustrating it can be when Windows 11 doesn’t retain window sizes after closing. This issue may be caused by changes in how Windows 11 manages window states, particularly with Snap Layouts, user profile settings, or third-party software interference.
To help resolve this, please try the following steps:
Step 1: Registry Tweak (Disable Browser Extensions in Internet Explorer)
This tweak disables browser extensions in Internet Explorer, which may help isolate system-level behaviors affecting window management.
Registry Path:
Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main
*Action:
- Locate the value named Enable Browser Extensions.
- Change its value from
YestoNo. - Restart your PC to apply the change.
This disables Internet Explorer extensions, which can sometimes interfere with shell behavior or legacy window handling.
Step 2: Snap-Assisted Closure (Recommended for Most Apps)
This method helps Windows remember window size and position more reliably:
- Resize the window manually to your preferred size.
- Drag the window to any screen edge until the Snap highlight appears.
- Release the window to snap it, then close it while snapped.
When reopened, the app will often retain the snapped size and position.
Step 3: Reset File Explorer Folder Views
If File Explorer continues to forget window sizes:
- Open File Explorer Options (search for it in Start).
- Go to the View tab.
- Click Reset Folders to clear saved view settings.
- Then click Apply to Folders to save your preferred layout.
This resets folder view memory and applies your current layout as the default.
Step 4: Test with a New User Profile
This helps determine if the issue is specific to your current Windows profile.
- Open Settings > Accounts > Other users.
- Click Add account to create a new local user.
- Log in with the new account and test window behavior.
If the issue does not occur in the new profile, it may be related to user-specific settings or corruption.
For more detailed instructions, please refer to the official Microsoft support page at: How to create a Local account in Windows 11 - ARTICLE - Microsoft Q&A
Please let me know the results after trying these steps. If the issue persists, I’ll be happy to assist you further.
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Warm regards,
Clary | Microsoft Q&A Support Specialist