Windows Explorer hasn’t changed radically for quite awhile; most changes are more cosmetic than anything else with each iteration of Windows. In Windows 7, Microsoft further tweaked the layout – adding shortcuts to your collection of Libraries or quick-access to your Favorites. However, they also removed a few things in an attempt to stream line the interface; namely the Recycle Bin and Control Panel shortcuts.

A layer of customizing is available to you using the familiar drag-and-drop method; either adding a new Favorite location or an additional item into your Library. However, this process isn’t applicable if you wish to restore a link to your Control Panel or Recycle bin.

Now that your moment of panic is through, it’s actually possible to re-introduce what Microsoft has taken away though it’s not exactly obvious. Within Explorer, navigate to Organize->Folder and search options.

Under Navigation pane check the box next to Show all folders, then click OK.

Now returning to Windows Explorer, notice the effect the change has caused?