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Microsoft plans to update File Explorer in the future, but the current version of this file management application still suffers from many problems. One of the most common and annoying problems is the frequent crashes that users have long complained about.
When users try to open a folder, the file explorer window and taskbar immediately close and sometimes reopen after a few seconds.
Microsoft has already released a series of cumulative updates to fix the problem, but many users still report File Explorer crashes.
Table of Contents:
Causes of File Explorer crashes
- If you have an older version of the operating system installed on your computer, this may be the reason Windows Explorer crashes regularly on your computer. Older versions often contain bugs and problems that have been fixed in newer versions.
- Damaged files and disks are also sometimes the cause of some utilities on your computer closing unexpectedly.
- Like web browsers and other applications, Windows Explorer keeps a history of actions performed in it. If you haven’t used Explorer for a long time and haven’t deleted history, files can accumulate in large numbers and cause the utility to freeze.
- If you have not enabled the separate process option for each of the folder windows, Explorer uses a single process for all open folder windows. Sometimes this can lead to conflicts and problems that cause Explorer to crash unexpectedly.
- The problem of Windows Explorer constantly crashing can also be caused by a third-party application interfering with its operation. Although most applications don’t, some types of programs, such as anti-virus software, have been known to cause conflicts with built-in Windows tools.
How to deal with File Explorer Crashes?
This tool is highly recommended to help you fix your error. Plus, this tool offers protection against file loss, malware, and hardware failures, and optimizes your device for maximum performance. If you already have a problem with your computer, this software can help you fix it and prevent other problems from recurring:
Updated: February 2025
Keep Windows up to date
- Press Win + I to open Settings, then select Update and Security.
- Select Windows Update, and then click Check for Updates in the right pane.
- If updates are available, Windows will automatically start downloading them.
- After the updates are successfully downloaded, restart your computer to complete the installation process.
Deleting File Explorer history
- Open File Explorer options and click the General tab.
- In the Privacy section, click Delete. The File Explorer history will be deleted in a few seconds.
Making changes to the video card driver
- Press Win + X to select Device Manager.
- In the window that opens, expand the Display Adapter entry, then right-clicks on the video card and select Uninstall Device.
- Enable the Uninstall driver software for this device and click the Uninstall button.
- Restart your computer and the system will automatically reinstall your video card.
- If Windows does not reinstall the video card driver, you should visit the video card manufacturer’s website to download the latest driver for your device.
- Open Device Manager again, click the Action at the top, and select Check Hardware Changes.
Disable access and set “Open File Explorer” on that PC
- Open the File Explorer options and click the General tab.
- Set Open File Explorer on this PC instead of Access.
- Under Privacy, disable the Show recently used files and Show frequently used folders in options. Click Apply and OK to save your changes.
Checking system files
- Open a command prompt as an administrator.
- Type sfc /scannow in the window, then press Enter.
- Then wait for Windows to determine if you have corrupted system files. If so, Windows will automatically restore them.
- Now restart your computer.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What happens when File Explorer crashes?
When File Explorer crashes, the taskbar, desktop icons, and the background image are usually removed. All you see is a black screen and all the windows that were open at the time. You can also see your mouse cursor and move it freely.
How do I fix File Explorer crashing in Windows 10?
- Delete the registry keys.
- Delete File Explorer history.
- Disable access to DeepL.
- Change display settings.
- Update the video card driver.
- Enable the Windows startup folder.
- Check account authorization.
- Run the Netsh Winsock Reset command.
How do I fix file explorer crashes?
- Change your display settings.
- Close programs such as antivirus software.
- Restart File Explorer.
- Change File Explorer settings.
- Clear the cache and create a new path.