Every time I open Windows Explorer, it defaults directly to the WINDOWS/Start Menu directory. I hate this.
Is there any way to change it? Say, for instance, I want it to default to Program Files?
This issue is addressed at the following site
http://www.komando.com/help/tips/19990417.shtml
However, as presented it’s unsatisfactory. After making the changes suggested, clicking on any folder in the right frame of Windows Explorer will not open and explore that folder, but instead will again explore Program Files.
My suggestion is to make a shortcut to Program Files and place it in the Start Menu.
Alternatively, if the path is not too long, you can just enter the root-level path you want to see in the Run box. For example, if you always wanted to go to Program Files, you’d click “Start” then “Run” then type “\program files” and press “Enter.”
You can also use the DOS name for the folder (which is shorter but requires that you learn to convert long file names to 8 character abbreviations on the fly). To do that, you’d type “\progra~1” and press “Enter.”
This is not an attractive option if you’re trying to get to “\program files\microsoft office emplates\spreadsheet solutions” a lot. But for a lot of stuff it works really well. 
You could also create a shortcut on your desktop, in your start menu or in the quick launch bar (if you have one)
using this command
C:\WINDOWS\EXPLORER.EXE /n,/e,C:\Program Files
The thing to realize is that right clicking on start and choosing “explore” is like saying “explore the start menu”. So of course it opens to that as the default if you use that method. If you want to start exploring a different folder by using a right click, a shortcut to that folder (either on the start menu itself or on the desktop) should suffice.
If you could hear the sound of my hand slapping my forehead, you’d cover your ears in pain.
Thank you!