[Solution] Favorite Links is Empty in Windows Vista Explorer Navigation Pane

- Last updated on April 5, 2008 by VG

Sometimes Windows Vista users face a problem when the “Favorite Links” section in Windows Explorer Navigation Pane doesn’t show any item:

If you are facing this problem, then use following methods:

Method A:

1. Right-click in Favorite Links section and select “Restore Default Favorite Links” option.

2. It’ll restore all the shortcuts immediately and your problem will be solved.

If the above mentioned method doesn’t work, then use following method:

Method B:

1. Type regedit in RUN dialog box and press Enter. Now go to:

HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\lnkfile

2. In right-side pane, create a new String Value IsShortcut

3. Close Registry Editor and restart your Windows. It’ll fix the problem.

NOTE: Older comments have been removed to reduce database overhead.

Stefan Nowak says:

April 4, 2012 at 1:40 am

As Damien Benoit already worked, I too confirm that none of the 2 described methods has an effect in Windows Vista Home Premium. Would appreciate a solution. Thanks!
Zach says:

October 16, 2012 at 11:20 am

I had the same problem with my favorites link showing up Empty and not being able to add anything into it. The quick and easy solution…

In C:\Users\(name)\ create a folder named Links, then got to your Start Menu and type in shell:links, it should re-link to your new links folder and you should now be able to drag and drop your folders into the favorites bar and voila…it works!
Jose Castro says:

April 8, 2015 at 8:09 pm

Thanks Zach, it worked.
Actually no need to create a folder, just the shell instruction was enough!