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Advanced Windows Settings

The Advanced settings page in Windows (formerly known as For Developers) brings together settings that help developers and power users be more productive. It's an open-source project — contributions and feedback are welcome. Open it directly via System > Advanced in Windows Settings.

Open Advanced Settings View on GitHub

What's included

Category Setting Description
Taskbar End Task Enable end task in taskbar by right click
File Explorer File Explorer Adjust settings for a more developer-friendly experience using File Explorer
↳ Show file extensions Show file extensions in File Explorer
↳ Show hidden and system files Show hidden and system files in File Explorer
↳ Show full path in title bar Show the full path in the File Explorer title bar
↳ Show option to run as different user in Start Show option to run as a different user in the Start menu
↳ Show empty drives Show empty drives in File Explorer
File Explorer File Explorer + version control View branch, commit, and author details directly in File Explorer. See File Explorer version control integration
File Explorer Enable long paths Remove MAX_PATH limitations from common Win32 file and directory functions
Virtual Workspace Remote Desktop Enable Remote Desktop and ensure machine availability
Virtual Workspace Virtual Workspaces Adjust settings for virtual workspaces
Terminal Terminal Choose the default terminal app to host command-line apps
Terminal PowerShell Turn on these settings to execute PowerShell scripts
Terminal Enable sudo Enable the sudo command. See Sudo for Windows
For developers Developer Mode Install apps from any source, including loose files. See Settings for developers
For developers Device Portal Turn on remote diagnostics over local area network connections
Dev Drive Dev Drive A storage volume optimized for performance in developer scenarios

Availability notes

  • In Windows 11, version 25H2 and later, the former For developers settings are now surfaced under the Advanced page.
  • Sudo for Windows is available in Windows 11, version 24H2 and later. See Sudo for Windows.
  • File Explorer version control integration is currently available via the Windows Insider Beta Channel. See File Explorer version control integration for enrollment and setup details.

Troubleshooting

  • Options missing or disabled: Devices managed by an organization may apply policies that disable Advanced settings toggles. See related Group Policy guidance.
  • Administrator required: Enabling Developer Mode requires local administrator privileges.
  • Feature not found: Ensure your device is updated to a supported Windows version. Preview features may require joining a Windows Insider channel.
  • Last updated on