Backspace to Go Up in Windows 7/Vista - Restore XP Functionality

The Backspace Key Change in Windows 7 and Vista

A common frustration for users transitioning from Windows XP to Windows 7 or Vista is the altered functionality of the Backspace key. Previously, it navigated Up a folder; now, it moves Back within the folder browsing history.

Initial use might not reveal the change immediately. However, testing by navigating through several subfolders and using the Backspace key will demonstrate its new behavior. You'll find yourself returning to prior subfolders.

Navigating Up a Folder

To move Up to the parent folder in Windows 7 or Vista, the Alt+Up shortcut key provides a consistent solution. This combination will always take you to the folder above the current one.

Restoring XP-Style Backspace Functionality with AutoHotkey

While Alt+Up works, many users prefer the original Backspace behavior. This can be achieved using a script with AutoHotkey, a scripting language for Windows.

First, ensure AutoHotkey is installed. Then, create a new AutoHotkey script and paste in the following code:

#IfWinActive, ahk_class CabinetWClass

Backspace::

ControlGet renamestatus,Visible,,Edit1,A

ControlGetFocus focussed, A

if(renamestatus!=1&&(focussed="DirectUIHWND3"||focussed=SysTreeView321))

{

SendInput {Alt Down}{Up}{Alt Up}

}else{

Send {Backspace}

}

#IfWinActive

Credit for the initial method goes to joeshmoo from the Productive Geek Forums. The script has been slightly adjusted for optimal performance in Windows 7.

Understanding the Script

A simple key re-mapping isn't sufficient because the Backspace key remains useful in search boxes, location bars, and during file renaming. Therefore, the script intelligently checks the active control before sending the Alt+Up key combination.

The #IfWinActive line restricts the script's operation to Windows Explorer windows, preventing conflicts in other applications.

The ControlGet and ControlGetFocus lines determine the status of the active controls. Based on this information, the script either sends Alt+Up or the standard Backspace key.

Simplified Installation: HTGBack Application

Recognizing that many users may not be familiar with AutoHotkey scripting, a pre-compiled executable application, HTGBack, has been created for ease of use.

This application has a minimal memory footprint.