FolderThumbnailFix is a utility developed to enhance the visual representation of folder thumbnails in Windows 11. By default, Windows 11 displays folder thumbnails with a half-covered overlay, partially obscuring the folder’s contents. This tool modifies the system to showcase full-size folder thumbnails, providing users with a clearer preview of folder contents.
Functionality and Operation
FolderThumbnailFix operates by replacing the mask icon within the system file imageres.dll.mun with a transparent icon. This file is located in the C:\Windows\SystemResources\ directory. This alteration removes the default overlay, allowing the folder’s thumbnail to be displayed in its entirety. The tool is designed to be non-intrusive – it doesn’t install additional software but directly modifies the existing system resource.
Using FolderThumbnailFix
FolderThumbnailFix is a portable independent program and can be used without installing. Users can download the ZIP archive containing FolderThumbnailFix, extract it to a folder and run it from there.
The FolderThumbnailFix window shows two buttons – one is to apply the patch and one is to remove the patch. The first button makes folder’s thumbnails to be displayed in full. The second button resets it back to the default.
Reverting Changes
Should users wish to revert to the default half-covered folder thumbnails, FolderThumbnailFix offers an option to undo the changes. You can launch FolderThumbnailFix once again and then click on the second button (with half thumbnail). This ensures flexibility, allowing users to switch between thumbnail styles as desired.
Command-Line Functionality
Beyond its graphical user interface, FolderThumbnailFix supports command-line operations:
- Use the /install argument to apply the transparent icon.
- Use the /remove argument to restore the default half-covered icon.
This feature caters to advanced users who prefer command-line interactions or wish to script the modification process.
Conclusion
FolderThumbnailFix addresses a specific aesthetic concern in Windows 11 by enabling full-size folder thumbnails. Its straightforward implementation and the ability to revert changes make it a practical solution for users seeking enhanced visual previews of their folders.
You can download FolderThumbnailFix from https://github.com/LesFerch/FolderThumbnailFix.