Windows Explorer Not Responding on Windows 10

Mon-Feb-2023
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If you’re facing the issue of Windows Explorer not responding on Windows 10, don’t worry, you’re not alone. This issue is fairly common and can occur due to a variety of reasons. In this article, we will discuss some of the common causes and possible solutions for this issue.

  1. Check for updates: Sometimes, the Windows Explorer not responding issue can be caused by outdated software or drivers. To resolve this, make sure that your Windows 10 is up-to-date. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and check for any available updates.
  2. Restart Windows Explorer: If Windows Explorer is not responding, you can try restarting it. Open the Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc, and then find the Windows Explorer process. Right-click on it and select Restart.
  3. Clear File Explorer History: If you have a lot of data saved in the history of File Explorer, it can cause the system to slow down or even crash. To fix this, you can try clearing the File Explorer history. Open File Explorer and go to View > Options > Change folder and search options. Click on the Clear button under the Privacy section.
  4. Check for malware: Malware and viruses can cause a lot of problems with your system, including making Windows Explorer not respond. Use a good antivirus software to scan your system and remove any malware or viruses.
  5. Perform a Clean Boot: A clean boot is a process of starting your computer with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs. This can help you identify any software or driver that is causing the issue. To perform a clean boot, press Windows key + R, type “msconfig” and hit Enter. Under the General tab, select “Selective startup” and uncheck the “Load startup items” option. Click on Apply and then restart your computer.
  6. Update or reinstall drivers: Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause Windows Explorer not to respond. Update the drivers for your system or try reinstalling them to fix the issue. You can do this manually or by using a driver update software.
  7. Disable Quick Access: The Quick Access feature in File Explorer can cause the system to slow down or crash, leading to Windows Explorer not responding. You can disable Quick Access by going to File Explorer Options > General and then selecting “Open File Explorer to: This PC”.

In conclusion, Windows Explorer not responding can be a frustrating issue to deal with, but it’s usually fixable. By following the above steps, you can identify and resolve the issue and get back to using your computer as normal.