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Fix File Explorer Crashing When Opening Folders: Solutions

9 min read 11-14- 2024
Fix File Explorer Crashing When Opening Folders: Solutions

Table of Contents :

File Explorer is an essential tool in Windows, enabling users to navigate their files and folders effortlessly. However, encountering crashes when attempting to open folders can be incredibly frustrating. In this article, we’ll explore several effective solutions to fix the issue of File Explorer crashing when opening folders. Let's dive into it! 💻✨

Understanding the Problem

Before we jump into the solutions, it’s important to understand why File Explorer might crash. This problem can arise from several factors, including:

  • Corrupted system files
  • Malware infections
  • Outdated or incompatible software
  • Incompatible shell extensions
  • Insufficient system resources

By identifying the root cause, we can apply targeted solutions to get File Explorer back up and running smoothly.

Basic Troubleshooting Steps

1. Restart Your Computer 💡

Sometimes, the simplest solution is the most effective. Restarting your computer can clear temporary files and resolve minor software glitches. Make sure to restart your computer and check if the issue persists.

2. Check for Windows Updates 🔄

Outdated software can lead to unexpected issues, including crashes. Ensure your system is up-to-date with the latest Windows updates.

Steps to Check for Updates:

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Navigate to Update & Security.
  3. Click on Check for updates.

If updates are available, install them and restart your computer.

3. Run the System File Checker (SFC) 🛠️

The System File Checker is a built-in Windows tool that scans and repairs corrupted system files.

Steps to Run SFC:

  1. Press Windows + X and select Windows PowerShell (Admin).
  2. Type the following command and hit Enter:
    sfc /scannow
  3. Wait for the process to complete and restart your computer.

4. Disable Quick Access 🖥️

Sometimes, issues with Quick Access can cause File Explorer to crash. Disabling it may resolve the problem.

Steps to Disable Quick Access:

  1. Open File Explorer.
  2. Click on the View tab and select Options.
  3. Under the General tab, change the "Open File Explorer to:" option to "This PC".
  4. Uncheck Show recently used files in Quick Access and Show frequently used folders in Quick Access.
  5. Click OK to apply the changes.

Advanced Solutions

If basic troubleshooting doesn’t solve the issue, you might need to try some advanced solutions.

5. Check for Malware 🦠

Malware can cause all sorts of issues, including crashes in File Explorer. Use Windows Defender or any reliable third-party antivirus software to scan for and remove any malware.

Steps to Use Windows Defender:

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Update & Security > Windows Security.
  3. Click on Virus & threat protection.
  4. Select Quick scan and follow the prompts.

6. Disable or Uninstall Problematic Software 💻

Certain applications, especially third-party file management tools or shell extensions, can interfere with File Explorer. If you have recently installed any software prior to the onset of the issue, consider disabling or uninstalling it.

Steps to Uninstall Software:

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Click on Apps > Apps & features.
  3. Locate the software and click on it, then select Uninstall.

7. Update Graphics Drivers 🎮

Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers can also cause File Explorer to crash. Make sure your graphics drivers are up-to-date.

Steps to Update Drivers:

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Display adapters section.
  3. Right-click your graphics card and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.

8. Check for Corrupted User Profile

In some cases, a corrupted user profile may be the cause of File Explorer crashes. Creating a new user profile can help identify if this is the issue.

Steps to Create a New User Profile:

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Navigate to Accounts > Family & other users.
  3. Click on Add someone else to this PC and follow the prompts to create a new account.

Log in with the new account and check if File Explorer still crashes.

Modifying Registry Settings

9. Modify the File Explorer Registry Settings 📝

If all else fails, modifying specific registry settings can help resolve File Explorer crashes. However, be cautious when editing the registry; back it up before making changes.

Steps to Modify Registry Settings:

  1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
  2. Navigate to the following path:
    HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer
  3. Look for the NoThumbnailCache key. If it exists, delete it.
  4. Navigate to:
    HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
  5. Look for the ExtendedUIHoverTime key and set its value to 200.
  6. Restart your computer.

Important Note: Always create a backup of your registry before making changes to avoid any unintended consequences. 🛑

Conclusion

File Explorer crashing when opening folders can be an inconvenient and disruptive experience. By following the solutions outlined above, you should be able to identify and resolve the problem effectively. Whether it’s through basic troubleshooting, advanced solutions, or registry modifications, there are several paths to restoring your File Explorer functionality. Remember to stay proactive by keeping your software updated and regularly scanning for malware to prevent future issues. Happy file navigating! 📂🌟

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