How to Fix Windows 11 File Explorer Crashing [8 Solutions]

Windows 11 File Explorer crashing can be an infuriating experience, interrupting your workflow and causing hassle. The stability of File Explorer is vital for smooth navigation through your files and folders.

In this article, we will explore the typical reasons for Windows 11 File Explorer crashes and offer efficient solutions to fix these problems.

Whether it's incompatible applications, system glitches, or conflicts with updates, understanding the causes is the first step toward a stable File Explorer. Let's get started!

How to Fix Windows 11 File Explorer Crashing

Windows Explorer, a core system process responsible for managing the graphical interface for utilities such as File Explorer, the taskbar, and the "Start" menu, can sometimes encounter temporary issues resulting in unexpected closures of File Explorer in Windows. Here are 8 effective solutions:

1. Solution 1: Restart File Explorer from Task Manager on Windows 11
2. Solution 2: Run DISM Commands with CMD to Fix File Explorer Crashing
3. Solution 3: Clear the Windows 11 File Explorer Cache
4. Solution 4: Keep your Windows 11 Up to Date to Fix File Explorer Crashing
5. Solution 5: Run the Windows 11 Memory Diagnostic Tool
6. Solution 6: Run CHKDSK and SFC Scan to Detect Errors in Windows 11 File Explorer
7. Solution 7: Uninstall an Update on Windows 11
8. Solution 8: Update GPU Driver in Windows 11

Fix 1: Restart File Explorer from Task Manager on Windows 11

Rather than performing a system-wide restart, a more efficient solution is to restart the Windows Explorer process. To fix the issue where "Windows Explorer has stopped working," follow these steps:

Step 1. Right-click the "Start" button and choose "Task Manager" from the available options.

Step 2. In the "Processes" tab, locate "Windows Explorer." Right-click on it and choose the "Restart" option.

Your taskbar might briefly disappear and reappear, indicating that the Windows Explorer process has successfully restarted. After this, File Explorer should resume functioning normally in Windows.

Fix 2. Run DISM Commands with CMD to Resolve File Explorer Crashing

The issue of Windows File Explorer not responding might be caused by corrupted system files. To fix this problem, you can utilize the DISM and SFC scan tools to check and repair any corrupted, missing, or damaged system files on your PC. Here's how to proceed:

Step 1. Launch the Run dialog box by pressing the "Windows Key + R."

Step 2. Type cmd and press "Ctrl + Shift + Enter" to open Command Prompt in administrator mode.

Step 3. Enter the command DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth and press "Enter."

Step 4. Allow the process to complete.

Step 5. Initiate a "System File Checker" scan by typing sfc /scannow in the Run dialog box and pressing "Enter."

Step 6. Wait for the process to complete, then restart your device.

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Fix 3: Clean the Windows 11 File Explorer Cache

Similar to various applications, File Explorer also stores cache data to improve its performance. However, when this data becomes outdated or corrupted, it can lead to various issues, such as File Explorer crashing.

您可以尝试清除当前的文件资源管理器缓存，看看是否能解决这个问题。按照以下步骤操作：

Step 1. Open the "Start" menu, search for "File Explorer Options," and select the first result that appears.

Step 2. In the "General" tab, select the "Clear" button next to "Clear File Explorer history."

Fix 4: Keep Your Windows 11 Up to Date to Address File Explorer Crashing

An outdated operating system can be a potential reason for File Explorer crashes on your Windows 11. If your system is missing the latest updates or experiencing issues with Windows Update not working, you can resolve this by following these steps:

Step 1. Simultaneously press the "Windows + I" keys to open your device's settings.

Step 2. Click on "Update & Security" from the options displayed.

Click on "Update & Security".

Step 3. Select "Windows Update" from the left menu and check for available updates.

Step 4. If updates are found, proceed with installing them.

Fix 5: Run the Windows 11 Memory Diagnostic Tool

Having multiple folders open simultaneously or handling numerous files can result in the File Explorer not opening or crashing.

This is often due to insufficient system resources or low memory. The built-in Windows utility, such as the Memory Diagnostic tool, can examine your RAM for possible errors.

Step 1. Press "Win+R" to open the "Run" dialog box. Type the command mdsched in the box, then press "Enter."

Step 2. Next, in the Windows Memory Diagnostic window, select "Restart now and check for problems (recommended)."

This image suggests selecting the option "Restart Now and check for problems (recommended)" in a Windows operating system.

Step 3. Permit the Windows Memory Diagnostic to scan your PC's RAM for errors. If any issues are detected, take the necessary actions to resolve them.

Fix 6: Run CHKDSK and SFC Scan to Detect Errors in Windows 11 File Explorer

If File Explorer is repeatedly crashing or becoming unresponsive, it might suggest corrupted or missing system files. In such cases, running the System File Checker (SFC) or Check Disk (CHKDSK) utility can assist in detecting, repairing, or replacing faulty system files.

?CHKDSK:

Step 1. Press "Win + Q" and type Command Prompt in the search box.

Step 2. Right-click on the search result and choose "Run as administrator."

Step 3. Type the command chkdsk C: /f /r and press "Enter."

Step 4. Press "Y" and hit "Enter" to confirm. Restart your computer to start the hard disk check.

?If the problem continues, proceed with the System File Check (SFC scan). Here's how to perform it:

Step 1. Launch Command Prompt as an administrator, as described above.

Step 2. Type sfc /scannow and press "Enter."

Step 3. Allow the scanning process to complete without interrupting your computer.

Upon completion, your PC will automatically fix detected errors. Restart your computer and check if the File Explorer issue has been resolved.

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Fix 7: Uninstall an Update on Windows 11

If your Windows 11 File Explorer becomes unresponsive after a recent system update, you can try uninstalling the update to fix any issues. Here's how:

Step 1. Launch the "Settings" from the start menu.

Step 2. Scroll down and access "Update & Security." Next, navigate to "Windows Update" > "View update history" > "Uninstall updates."

Step 3. Double-click on the most recent update, and then select "Yes" to start the uninstallation process.

Fix 8: Update GPU Driver in Windows 11

If you experience crashes with Windows Explorer, an outdated or corrupted graphics driver might be the cause. If the initial fix doesn't solve the problem, consider updating your graphics driver manually or automatically.

For a manual update, visit the manufacturer's website for your graphics card and find the most recent driver that is compatible with your version of the Windows operating system.

For an automatic update:

Step 1. Open "Driver Easy" and click the "Scan Now" button.

Step 2. Wait for the scanning process to complete.

Step 3. On the "Update" screen, Driver Easy will display the available drivers for updating. Select the drivers you need based on your requirements.

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Bonus Tip: Recover Lost Files After Fixing File Explorer Crash

When tackling the issue of File Explorer unresponsiveness, there is a risk of losing important files or data, particularly when clearing the Windows 11 File Explorer cache or uninstalling updates.

This can be a stressful and frustrating situation, but Data Recovery Wizard Pro is your go-to solution.

Data Recovery Wizard is a powerful and efficient tool designed to assist users in recovering deleted files or documents resulting from issues like this or any other causes, such as accidental deletion or system crashes.

Whether it's images, videos, or various file types, this program proves invaluable in enabling users to effortlessly and promptly regain access to their data.

What Causes File Explorer to Crash on Windows 11?

When examining the reasons behind the Windows 11 File Explorer crashing issue, it's essential to comprehend the diverse factors contributing to this inconvenience.

Here are some underlying issues with your computer or Windows system that could be causing the Windows 11 File Explorer to crash:

• System Glitches: Temporary errors or malfunctions in the operating system can cause System Glitches, which in turn lead to File Explorer crashes on Windows 11. These glitches disrupt the smooth running of File Explorer processes, resulting in instability and frequent crashes.
• Conflicting Updates: Incompatible updates to different components of the operating system or software can trigger File Explorer crashes. Such conflicts occur when updates are not properly synchronized, disrupting the coordinated functioning of the system and potentially causing external hard drives not to show up in File Explorer.
• Corrupt System Files: Corrupt system files are a frequent cause of File Explorer crashes. When vital files essential for File Explorer's operation become corrupted, it can lead to unpredictable behavior, including crashes and malfunctions.
• Graphics Driver Issues: Issues with graphics drivers, such as outdated or incompatible drivers, can affect File Explorer's performance. As File Explorer relies on graphical elements for content display, problems with graphics drivers can result in crashes and display abnormalities.

底线

In summary, addressing a crash in Windows File Explorer can be a time-consuming task, owing to various causes such as software conflicts, system errors, and malware.

However, investing time in investigation and troubleshooting can lead to a resolution, preventing further frustration and potential damage to your system. Remaining vigilant and taking appropriate actions are essential for the smooth operation of your system.

If you experience data loss, the tool Data Recovery Wizard is a trustworthy and reliable solution for file recovery. We highly recommend downloading and utilizing this software.

Frequently Asked Questions about Windows 11 File Explorer Crashes

Here are some questions and answers to assist you in resolving the "Windows 11 File Explorer crashing" issue.

< b > 1. Why does File Explorer keep crashing in Windows 11?

File Explorer crashes on Windows 11 can occur due to various reasons, each affecting the system differently. Incompatible third-party applications, system glitches, conflicting updates, corrupted system files, and issues with graphics drivers are some factors that can contribute to the instability of File Explorer.

2. How do I fix File Explorer in Windows 11?

Here are some methods to resolve issues with File Explorer:

Translate the following text into English:
• Restart File Explorer.
• Clear the File Explorer cache.
• Perform an SFC Scan.
• Keep Windows 11 up to date.
• Update GPU drivers.
• Run the Windows 11 memory diagnostic tool.

3. Why does my File Explorer keep crashing?

A corrupted File Explorer cache can lead to unexpected crashes or unresponsiveness in Windows File Explorer. This disruption affects its proper operation, resulting in crashes or unresponsiveness. Clearing the cache is a possible solution to fix this problem.

4. What replaces File Explorer in Windows 11? In Windows 11, File Explorer remains the primary file management application. There hasn't been a replacement for it in the operating system. However, it has received some updates and design improvements, such as a refreshed user interface and the integration of Microsoft's cloud storage service, OneDrive.

If you're looking for an alternative to File Explorer on Windows 11, consider trying out the "Files" app. This open-source file manager is designed to be more contemporary and user-friendly than the default manager provided by the operating system.