How to Fix File Explorer Not Responding on Windows

File Explorer is a key part of Windows that helps you open and organize files on your computer. Sometimes, it might stop working properly, which can be annoying. This problem can happen for many reasons, like old software or not enough space on your computer.

In this guide, we’ll show you different ways to fix File Explorer when it’s not responding. We’ll use simple tools like Task Manager and Command Prompt, and we’ll also look at how to keep File Explorer running smoothly in the future. Let’s get started on solving and preventing these issues.

Table of Contents

What Causes File Explorer to Stop Responding?

Here are some common causes that might explain why this happens, making it easier to fix the issue:

Outdated video drivers: Old video drivers can cause File Explorer to freeze because they help your PC communicate with its hardware.
Out-of-date Windows version: Not updating your Windows operating system can lead to File Explorer issues.
Corrupted system files: If your PC tries to access damaged files, especially images, it can make File Explorer unresponsive. A failing hard drive can also affect File Explorer’s performance.
Virus or malware: Infections from viruses or malware can create numerous problems, including causing File Explorer to stop responding.
Third-party software conflicts: Sometimes, File Explorer may crash if it conflicts with software from other companies you’ve installed.
Improper system settings: Changes in your display or power settings might prevent File Explorer from working correctly.
Large files or folders: If your PC has very large files or folders, File Explorer might take longer to respond.
Full storage space: File Explorer might not function properly if there’s no free space left on your system drive.
Overloaded File Explorer history: Too much history stored in File Explorer can cause it to malfunction.

Ways to Fix File Explorer Not Responding

Following are different ways to fix file explorer not responding:

Method 1: Restart File Explorer with Task Manager

File Explorer must be restarted using Windows Task Manager if it crashes or becomes unresponsive. To fix a variety of computer difficulties, like File Explorer not working, users can use it to halt uncooperative processes, activate new apps, and manage system performance.

Take these actions to accomplish this:

Step 1. Open Task Manager: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc.

Step 2. End File Explorer: Right-click on Windows Explorer in the Task Manager list and choose End task.

Step 3. Start a New Task: Click File at the top left corner and select Run new task.

Step 4. Restart File Explorer: Type explorer.exe in the box and press Enter to restart File Explorer.

Method 2. How to Clear File Explorer History

Clearing the history in Windows File Explorer removes traces of the files and folders you’ve previously opened. This can boost File Explorer’s performance and protect your privacy. Here’s how to do it easily:

Step 1. Open Control Panel: Type “Control Panel” in the search box on your taskbar and open it.

Step 2. Access File Explorer Options: In the Control Panel, use the search bar at the top to find “File Explorer Options” and click on it.

Step 3. Clear History: Go to the “General” tab, locate the “Privacy” section, and click the “Clear” button to erase your history.

Step 4. Confirm: Click “OK” to confirm the action and clear your File Explorer history.

Method 3. Restart File Explorer Using CMD

The Command Prompt in Windows lets you use text commands to manage tasks and fix issues. If File Explorer is not responding, you can restart it using the Command Prompt. Here’s how to do it simply:

Step 1. Open Command Prompt: Type “cmd” in the search box next to the Start menu and select “Command Prompt” from the results.

Step 2. Stop File Explorer: In the Command Prompt, type taskkill /f /im explorer.exe and press Enter. This command ends the File Explorer process.

Step 3. Restart File Explorer: Type start explorer.exe in the Command Prompt and press Enter to restart File Explorer.

Step 4. Close Command Prompt: Once done, close the Command Prompt window and see if File Explorer is working correctly.

Method 4. Resolve File Explorer Issues by Freeing Up Space

When your system drive is nearly full, it can slow down your PC and cause problems like File Explorer not responding. Here’s how to clean up your system drive:

Step 1. Access File Explorer: Open File Explorer and select “This PC” or “My Computer.”

Step 2. Check Drive Properties: Right-click on your system drive (usually C:) and choose “Properties.”

Step 3. Start Disk Cleanup: Click on “Disk Cleanup” in the properties window and let it calculate what files can be removed.

Step 4. Select and Clean Files: Choose files for deletion, like temporary files and contents of the recycle bin, and confirm by clicking “OK.”

Method 5. Fix File Explorer by Resetting Display Settings

Adjusting your display settings can affect how programs like File Explorer work on your Windows PC. If you’re experiencing issues, resetting these settings might help. Here’s how to revert to the original display settings:

Step 1. Open Windows Settings: Click on the Windows logo or press Windows + I.

Step 2. Navigate to System: Select the “System” option.

Step 3. Go to Display Settings: Click on the “Display” tab.

Step 4. Adjust Scaling: Change the scaling for text, apps, and other items back to 100% and see if that resolves the issue.

Method 6. Update or Reinstall Windows to Fix File Explorer

Sometimes, updating or reinstalling Windows is necessary to fix issues with File Explorer not responding:

Step 1. Open Settings: Press the Windows + I keys together to open settings.

Step 2. Go to Update & Security: Select “Update & Security” from the options.

Step 3. Check for Updates: Click on “Windows Update” on the left and check for available updates.

Step 4. Install Updates: If there are updates, install them to see if this resolves the File Explorer issues.

Prevent File Explorer Problems

Here’s how you can keep File Explorer running smoothly and avoid future issues:

Regular Windows Updates: Make sure to regularly update Windows to get the latest security enhancements and fixes.
Careful Software Installation: Install only trusted software to minimize conflicts and system issues.
Implement Antivirus Measures: Use reliable antivirus and anti-malware tools to protect your PC from harmful software.
Manage System Resources: Keep an eye on your resource usage by closing unnecessary apps and controlling background processes.
Consult Experts: For recurring or serious issues, especially those involving data loss, seek help from professional data recovery services.

Conclusion

When File Explorer stops responding on Windows, it can disrupt your workflow and become a significant inconvenience.

Fortunately, there are several methods to address this issue, such as restarting File Explorer via Task Manager or Command Prompt, clearing history, freeing up disk space, and adjusting display settings.

Regular system maintenance, like updating Windows and managing system resources, also plays a crucial role in preventing these issues. If problems persist, it may be wise to consult with professionals to ensure your system remains efficient and secure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Does File Explorer Stop Responding?

File Explorer might stop responding due to outdated software, corrupted files, not enough storage space, or conflicts with other programs.

What Should I Do if Restarting File Explorer Doesn’t Work?

Try clearing the File Explorer history from the “File Explorer Options” in the Control Panel, or check for Windows updates and install any that are available.

Can Large Files Cause File Explorer to Stop Responding?

Yes, having very large files or folders can slow down File Explorer and make it unresponsive. Try organizing your files or moving some to an external drive.

How Can I Prevent File Explorer Issues in the Future?

Regularly update your Windows, manage your system resources by closing unused programs, and use reliable antivirus software to protect against malware that might cause issues.