In Windows 11, Windows Explorer has the habit of switching into grouping mode by default for certain folders (e.g. Downloads).

I don't know about you, but I find this behavior incredibly annoying. So, if you want to get rid of it, here is how:

• Open the Sort dropdown menu in Windows Explorer's toolbar.
• Expand the Group by item.
• Select (None) there.

This should get rid of the grouping view in the current explorer Window.

If you want to make this current view your default for all folders, thus turning off grouping everywhere, here is how:

• Open the ... dropdown menu in Windows Explorer's toolbar.
• Select Options there.

This brings up an old-style Windows options dialog.

• Switch to the View tab there.
• Select Apply to folders. This applies the current view settings to all folders.

Done. Now you should have gotten rid of grouped views on your whole system.