File Explorer Not Responding Troubleshooting tips

File Explorer Not Responding Troubleshooting tips

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File Explorer, the default file management tool in Windows, is a crucial component of the operating system. It enables users to navigate, organize, and manage their files and folders. However, like any software application, File Explorer can encounter issues, leading to frustration and hindering productivity. One common problem users face is File Explorer Not Responding, causing applications to freeze or become unresponsive to user input.

File Explorer Not Responding

Causes of File Explorer Not Responding

There are several reasons why it might not be working, from conflicts with third-party software to system-related problems. Among the most common reasons are:

  • Outdated/corrupted drivers: File Explorer instability and crashes might be caused by outdated/corrupted device drivers, especially graphics card drivers.
  • File system errors: File Explorer may become sluggish due to corrupted/broken file system structures that prevent it from accessing files and directories.
  • Resource-intensive applications: Running several demanding applications at once can strain system’s capabilities to the point where File Explorer becomes unresponsive.
  • Third-party software conflicts: File Explorer may freeze or crash due to incompatible or conflicting software programs interfering with its operations.
  • Malware infections: Malware, which includes viruses and spyware, can disrupt File Explorer’s functionality and make it unusable or unresponsive.
File Explorer Not Responding

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Resolving Strategies for File Explorer not responding

Before trying to fix the problem of File Explorer not working, it is crucial to determine the root cause. Here are some useful troubleshooting tips to adhere to:

  • Restart File Explorer: This is the easiest and most frequently successful fix. To restart Task Manager, type Ctrl+Shift+Esc, choose “Windows Explorer” from the Processes tab, and click “Restart.”
  • Clear File Explorer history: File Explorer can occasionally stop responding due to a build-up of historical data. Open File Explorer Options, select the “General” tab, then click “Clear” under “Search history” to remove this data.
  • Update device drivers: Make sure that all of your devices’ drivers—especially the ones for your graphics card—are current. Inconsistencies and compatibility problems may arise from outdated drivers.
  • Disable file previews: They might use up system resources and cause File Explorer to become unstable. Navigate to the “View” tab in File Explorer Options, select “Advanced settings,” then uncheck “Show previews” to turn off previews.
  • Run System File Checker (SFC): A built-in Windows utility called SFC can detect and fix corrupted system files. Press Enter after typing “sfc /scannow” in Command Prompt as administrator to launch SFC.
  • Reset File Explorer defaults: This can fix problems brought on by incorrectly specified settings. Open File Explorer Options, select “Restore Defaults” under the “General” tab, then carry out the same action on the “View” and “Search” tabs to reset the defaults.
  • Scan for malware: You have to find and get rid of any possible malware infections. For it do a comprehensive system scan with a reliable antivirus or anti-malware tool.
  • Check for third-party software conflicts: Disable any extensions or programs that you recently installed. By doing that you can know whether they are the source of File Explorer issues.

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Conclusion

Now you have understood the causes of File Explorer not responding. And you can implement effective troubleshooting and preventive measures. So that you minimize the occurrence of this issue and maintain a smooth and productive computing experience.

FAQS

Where is the location of File Explorer in Windows 10?

In Windows 10, you can view it by clicking on its icon in the taskbar or Start menu. Or by using the keyboard shortcut Windows logo key + E.

What is the purpose of File Explorer?

You may access all of the folders and files on your computer using File Explorer. It will show you all of the folders on your computer that are accessible, letting you open each one individually. After that, you may double-click on any file or folder to inspect its contents by opening it.

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