You will also learn how to fix File Explorer not responding on Microsoft Windows 11 and its 10 methods.
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| How to Fix File Explorer Not Responding on Windows 11: 10 Ways |
10 Ways to Fix File Explorer Not Responding
Hello UWinPC users, today we are going to talk about how we can fix this problem that has been seen many times in Windows 11, in which the file explorer does not respond properly. These problems are seen only when a new update or change is released. Then we see this problem, so further we are going to fix the problem of File Explorer response on Windows 11 by following these 10 methods given below.
- Restart Your Computer. Often, just restarting your computer can help fix issues with File Explorer not responding. Closing and reopening background processes and services gives file explorers a fresh start, clearing any temporary bugs. Simply shut down your computer fully rather than just putting it to sleep. After a minute, power your device back on and check if File Explorer works properly now.
- Update Windows and Drivers. Make sure Windows 11 and all your device drivers are fully updated. Go to Settings > Windows Update and install available system updates. Also, check for new graphics driver updates from your PC or hardware manufacturer’s website. Updates include fixes for bugs that could cause problems like file explorer crashes.
- Run SFC and DISM Scans. System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) are built-in Windows utilities that scan for and restore missing, corrupt, or changed system files, which often cause performance issues. Open an admin Command Prompt and run “SFC /scannow” first, followed by “DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth”. This will check that all key system files are intact and undo any changes.
- Boot Into Safe Mode. Safe Mode starts Windows with only the bare essential drivers and services running. This isolates problems caused by 3rd party apps. Restart your PC, hold down F8 during bootup to access the Safe Mode menu, and select the option. Then see if File Explorer loads properly now to pinpoint if an app or driver is causing the hanging issue.
- Uninstall Recent Windows Updates. If your PC began exhibiting file explorer problems after a particular Windows update, uninstall that update. Go to Settings > Windows Update > View Update History. Click Uninstall Updates and remove any recent problematic updates. This should roll back the changes they made. Then check if File Explorer works again.
- Disable Startup Apps. Some apps that auto-start with Windows could interfere with File Explorer, stopping it from loading. To troubleshoot, selectively disable startup apps and services. Go to Task Manager > Startup tab and turn off non-essential startup items. Restart and check if the issue persists. Turn on apps selectively to identify any problematic ones.
- Run Antivirus Software. Viruses and malware can definitely cause File Explorer crashes and slowdowns. Make sure to run a full system scan using reliable antivirus software like Windows Security or third-party programs (Malwarebytes, BitDefender, etc). Remove any infections or PUAs/PUPs discovered during the scan.
- Clear All Temporary Files.s An accumulation of temporary data and files over time can bog down the file explorer's performance and make it unresponsive. Use the built-in Disk Cleanup tool to wipe these. Open it and select Clean Up System Files, then choose all options before clicking OK. Reboot and test if this clears any data-related slowdowns.
- Reset File Associations. Resetting file type associations can correct issues with File Explorer incorrectly assigning file types or using the wrong applications to open documents. Go to Start and search for “Default Programs”. Click “Set default programs” and choose “Restore default apps for file types”. Check if the fixes file explorer bugs when trying to access certain files.
- Refresh/Reset Windows. If all else fails, refreshing or resetting Windows 11 essentially gives you a clean slate while retaining your personal files and apps. Go to Settings > System > Recovery and choose between the Reset or Refresh options based on how thorough you want the cleanup to be. This wipes system settings changes or different kinds of temporary files that may be crashing File Explorer.