Windows Explorer Stopped Working? Here’s How to Fix It

Windows Explorer, a core component of the Windows operating system, allows users to browse, organize, and manage files and folders on their computer. You can open it from the shortcuts in the Start menu, Taskbar, My Computer (This PC in Windows 11/10), Windows folder, etc. However, sometimes while browsing files or opening a folder, you may see an error message saying “Windows Explorer has stopped working.” Users report that, file explorer is suddenly not responding and crashes when saving files. This issue can occur due to a variety of factors, including corrupt system files, outdated or corrupted drivers, malware or viruses, conflicts with third-party applications, or even a faulty hard drive. Whether it’s a temporary glitch or a recurring issue, here you’ll find the right solution to get your File Explorer running smoothly again.

What causes Windows Explorer to stop working?

Windows Explorer can stop working for several reasons. One common cause is outdated or corrupted system files. Another cause could be outdated or corrupted video drivers. Additionally, issues with third-party software or services can interfere with Windows Explorer, leading to it stopping working. Again, a faulty hard drive can impact the normal operation of File Explorer.

• System File Corruption: Damaged or missing system files can disrupt the normal functioning of Windows Explorer.
• Outdated or Corrupted Video Drivers: An outdated or faulty video driver can cause issues with how Windows handles graphics, leading to Explorer problems.
• Malware Infections: Viruses or malware can interfere with system processes, including Windows Explorer.
• Application Conflicts: Certain applications or startup services might conflict with Explorer, causing it to stop responding.
• Corrupted Files: If you’re trying to open a specific file that’s corrupted, it can also cause Explorer to crash.

Restart Windows Explorer

One of the quickest ways to address this issue is to restart the Windows Explorer process through Task Manager. This can help refresh the process and resolve any glitches causing the freeze.

• Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
• Locate File Explorer (or Windows Explorer) and select “End task.”
• Then, click “File” in the upper-left corner and choose “Run new task,” input explorer.exe, and press Enter to restart it immediately.

If it was a temporary issue, this should resolve the problem immediately.

Run the System File Checker (SFC) and DISM Tool

File Explorer depends on various DLL and system files. If one of these is damaged, Explorer can crash during routine operations. Running built-in like SFC and DISM restorehealth command scan and repair corrupted or missing system files that might be causing the issue.

• Press the Windows key, type cmd and Open Command Prompt as administrator.
• Type the command sfc /scannow and press enter to scan and repair corrupted system files.
• Wait for the scan to complete. It may take some time, depending on the corruption level.
• Next, run the DISM restorehealth command DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
• This command scans and repairs the Windows image. Once scanning is complete, restart your system and check if the issue persists.

Clear File Explorer History

File Explorer saves a history of recent folders and searches. If this becomes corrupt, it can cause Explorer to behave unpredictably.

• Press Windows + R, type Control folders, and press Enter.
• In the General tab of the File Explorer Options window, click Clear next to Clear File Explorer history.
• Click Apply and OK to confirm.

Now, try reopening File Explorer and see if it responds properly.

Update Graphics Drivers

Outdated GPU drivers can cause conflicts when File Explorer tries to load visual elements like previews, animations, or transparency effects in Windows 11.

• Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
• Expand the Display adapters section.
• Right-click on your graphics card (e.g., Intel, AMD, NVIDIA) and select Update driver.
• Choose Search automatically for drivers.

Alternatively, visit your GPU manufacturer’s website to manually download and install the latest driver.

Disable Problematic Shell Extensions Using ShellExView

Shell extensions are add-ons to File Explorer, often installed by apps like antivirus, Dropbox, or file compression tools. If an extension is corrupted or incompatible with Windows 11, it can cause Explorer to crash, especially when you right-click on a file or open certain folders.

• Download ShellExView from the official NirSoft website.
• Launch the tool and sort the list by Type.
• Disable all non-Microsoft context menu items.
• Restart your PC and test File Explorer.

Re-enable each extension one by one to identify which one caused the problem.

Perform a Clean Boot

Clean Boot starts Windows with only essential services and drivers. If File Explorer only crashes after login, the problem is likely caused by a startup service or third-party background application. A clean boot helps pinpoint startup apps or services that conflict with File Explorer.

• Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
• Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
• Go to the Startup tab and open Task Manager.
• Disable all startup programs and restart your PC.

If File Explorer stops crashing, re-enable services and startup apps one by one to find the culprit.

Scan for Malware or Virus Infections

Malware can infect system components like Explorer.exe, causing it to behave erratically or crash. Performing a full system scan with Windows security or third-party antivirus can detect and remove such threats.

• Open Windows Security from the Start menu.
• Go to Virus & threat protection > Quick Scan.
• For a deeper scan, click Scan options > Full Scan.

You can also use third-party malware tools like Malwarebytes for a secondary opinion.

Create a New User Profile

Sometimes, a corrupted user profile can cause Windows features like Explorer to misbehave.

• Go to Settings > Accounts > Other users.
• Click Add account and create a new local or Microsoft account.
• Sign in with the new user and check if the issue is resolved.

If so, consider transferring files and settings to the new profile permanently.

If the issue persists, you can perform a system restore to revert your computer to a previous restore point:

FAQs – Windows Explorer Stopped Working

Q1. Why does Windows Explorer keep crashing or stopping on Windows 11?
Common reasons include corrupted system files, outdated drivers, incompatible third-party apps, or malware infections.

Q2. What’s the easiest way to fix the issue quickly?
Restarting File Explorer using Task Manager is a simple and effective quick fix for minor crashes.

Q3. Is this issue a sign of hardware problems?
Not typically. Most cases are software-related, though rare hardware issues like failing RAM or drive sectors can also affect system performance.

Q4. Should I reinstall Windows to fix Explorer problems?
Only after trying all other options. A repair install is preferable since it keeps your files and apps intact.