File Explorer is an essential tool for navigating and managing files on Windows 10, but it can become frustrating when it starts crashing unexpectedly. Not only does it hinder productivity, but it can also lead to data loss and system instability. In this step-by-step guide, we will explore various troubleshooting methods to help you resolve File Explorer crashing on Windows 10, ensuring a seamless and trouble-free file management experience.
Understanding The Causes Of File Explorer Crashes On Windows 10
File Explorer is an essential tool that allows users to navigate and manage files and folders in Windows 10. However, it can sometimes experience crashes, causing frustration and inconvenience.
There are several potential causes for File Explorer crashes on Windows 10. One common culprit is outdated Windows 10 and device drivers, which can lead to compatibility issues. Malware or viruses can also cause File Explorer to crash, as they can interfere with system processes. Additionally, a cluttered File Explorer history and cache may overload the system, resulting in crashes.
Another possible cause of File Explorer crashes is shell extensions, which are third-party tools that integrate with the Windows operating system. If these extensions are unnecessary or incompatible, they can lead to instability. Moreover, modifying important File Explorer settings can also trigger crashes. Lastly, conflicting programs running in the background can disrupt File Explorer, and in some cases, a system reinstall may be necessary to resolve persistent crashing issues.
By understanding these potential causes, users can take appropriate steps to troubleshoot and resolve File Explorer crashes on their Windows 10 systems.
Step 1: Updating Windows 10 And Device Drivers
Updating Windows 10 and device drivers can often resolve File Explorer crashing issues on your computer. Outdated operating systems and drivers can cause compatibility issues and instability, leading to frequent crashes. To update Windows 10, navigate to the “Settings” app and go to “Update & Security.” From there, click on “Windows Update” and select “Check for updates.” If updates are available, follow the prompts to install them.
Similarly, outdated or faulty device drivers can also lead to File Explorer crashes. To update your device drivers, press the Windows key + X and select “Device Manager.” Locate the device that may be causing the issue, right-click on it, and select “Update driver.” You can choose to search automatically for updated driver software or download the latest drivers from the manufacturer’s website.
Regularly keeping your operating system and device drivers up to date can go a long way in preventing File Explorer crashes and improving the overall performance of your Windows 10 system.
Step 2: Running A Virus Scan To Eliminate Malware Or Viruses
Running a virus scan is a crucial step in resolving File Explorer crashes on Windows 10. Malware or viruses can often interfere with the proper functioning of File Explorer, leading to frequent crashes. Follow these steps to run a virus scan and eliminate any potential threats:
1. Launch your preferred antivirus software. If you don’t have one, consider downloading a reputable antivirus program from a trusted source.
2. Ensure that your antivirus software is up to date with the latest virus definitions.
3. Perform a full system scan to thoroughly examine your computer for any malware or viruses. This comprehensive scan ensures that no infected files are left undetected.
4. If any malicious files are detected, immediately quarantine or remove them. Follow the instructions provided by your antivirus software to effectively deal with the threats.
5. Once the scan is complete and any potential threats are eliminated, restart your computer.
6. After the restart, launch File Explorer and check if the crashing issue persists. If the problem is resolved, you can continue using File Explorer without interruption. However, if the issue persists, proceed to the next step.
Running a virus scan is an essential step to safeguard your system’s security and restore File Explorer’s stability.
Step 3: Clearing The File Explorer History And Cache
Clearing the File Explorer history and cache can help resolve issues with File Explorer crashing on Windows 10. Over time, the history and cache accumulated by File Explorer can become corrupt or overloaded, leading to crashes. Follow these steps to clear the history and cache:
1. Open File Explorer by pressing the Windows key and E simultaneously.
2. Click on the “View” tab at the top of the File Explorer window.
3. In the “Show/hide” section, check the box next to “Hidden items” to ensure that all files are visible.
4. Now, navigate to the following location: C:Users[Your Username]AppDataLocal.
5. Locate and open the “Microsoft” folder, then go into the “Windows” folder.
6. Look for the folder named “Explorer” and open it.
7. Inside the Explorer folder, select and delete all the files and folders, except for the “IconCache” file.
8. Close File Explorer and restart your computer.
Clearing the File Explorer history and cache should help resolve any corrupt or overloaded files that may be causing crashes. If the issue persists, continue to the next step in the guide.
Step 4: Disabling Unnecessary Shell Extensions
Disabling unnecessary shell extensions can often resolve File Explorer crashing on Windows 10. Shell extensions are third-party software components that integrate with File Explorer to provide additional functionality. However, incompatible or buggy shell extensions can cause File Explorer to crash.
To disable unnecessary shell extensions, follow these steps:
1. Open File Explorer and click on the “View” tab at the top.
2. Click on the “Options” button and select “Change folder and search options” from the drop-down menu.
3. In the “Folder Options” window, go to the “View” tab.
4. Under the “Advanced settings” section, scroll down and uncheck the box next to “Show preview handlers in preview pane” and “Show pop-up description for folder and desktop items.”
5. Next, go to the “Shell extensions” section and click on the “Disable” button.
6. A list of shell extensions will appear. Uncheck the box next to any extension that is not essential for your workflow.
7. Click “Apply” and then “OK” to save the changes.
By disabling unnecessary shell extensions, you can eliminate any potential conflicts that may be causing File Explorer to crash. However, if the issue persists, you can move on to the next step in the guide.
Step 5: Resetting File Explorer Settings To Default
If you’re experiencing frequent crashes and errors with File Explorer on Windows 10, resetting its settings to default may help resolve the issue. When you reset File Explorer, it will revert back to its original state, eliminating any customized settings that could potentially be causing conflicts.
To reset File Explorer settings, follow these steps:
1. Open the File Explorer by pressing the Windows key + E on your keyboard.
2. Click on the “View” tab at the top of the File Explorer window.
3. In the “Options” dropdown menu, click on “Change folder and search options.”
4. In the “Folder Options” window, click on the “View” tab.
5. Under the “Advanced settings” section, click on the “Reset Folders” button.
6. You will be prompted with a warning message. Click “Yes” to confirm the reset.
7. Finally, click “OK” to save the changes and exit the “Folder Options” window.
Once you have reset the File Explorer settings, restart your computer and check if the crashing issues have been resolved. If not, proceed to the next step to further troubleshoot the problem.
Step 6: Performing A Clean Boot To Troubleshoot Conflicting Programs
Performing a clean boot on Windows 10 can help identify and resolve conflicts between File Explorer and other installed programs. This step allows you to start your computer with only essential programs and services, eliminating any potential software conflicts.
To perform a clean boot:
1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “msconfig” and press Enter to open the System Configuration window.
3. In the General tab, select the “Selective startup” option.
4. Uncheck the box next to “Load startup items.”
5. Go to the Services tab and check the box next to “Hide all Microsoft services.”
6. Click the “Disable all” button to disable all non-Microsoft services.
7. Go to the Startup tab and click on “Open Task Manager.”
8. Disable each startup item by selecting it and clicking the “Disable” button.
9. Close the Task Manager and click “OK” in the System Configuration window.
10. Restart your computer.
After performing a clean boot, check if File Explorer continues to crash. If the issue is resolved, it indicates that one of the disabled services or startup items was causing the problem. You can then enable them one by one to identify the conflicting program and take appropriate steps to resolve it.
Step 7: Reinstalling Windows 10 To Resolve Persistent File Explorer Crashing Issues
Reinstalling Windows 10 can be a last resort to resolve persistent File Explorer crashing issues. This step involves completely reinstalling the operating system, which helps to eliminate any underlying software conflicts or system errors that may be causing the crashes. However, it is important to note that reinstalling Windows 10 will remove all the files and programs on your computer, so it is crucial to create backups of your important data before proceeding with this step.
To reinstall Windows 10, you can follow these steps:
1. Create a backup: Back up all your important files and data to an external storage device or cloud service.
2. Create installation media: Use Microsoft’s official Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB drive or DVD with the Windows 10 installation files.
3. Boot from the installation media: Insert the bootable USB drive or DVD, restart your computer, and boot from the installation media.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions: The Windows 10 installation process will guide you through the necessary steps to reinstall the operating system.
5. Restore your files and programs: Once the reinstallation is complete, you can restore your backed-up files and reinstall the necessary programs.
Reinstalling Windows 10 can be time-consuming, but it can often resolve persistent File Explorer crashing issues that were not resolved by previous steps.
FAQs
FAQ 1: Why does File Explorer keep crashing on Windows 10?
There are several possible reasons for File Explorer crashing on Windows 10. It could be due to a corrupt system file, conflicts with third-party software, outdated or incompatible device drivers, or issues with the shell extensions.
FAQ 2: How can I fix File Explorer crashing issue on Windows 10?
To resolve File Explorer crashing on Windows 10, you can try several troubleshooting steps. Start by scanning your system for corrupt files using the System File Checker tool. You can also try disabling or uninstalling any recently installed third-party software. Updating device drivers and disabling problematic shell extensions can also help in resolving the issue.
FAQ 3: Will resetting File Explorer settings fix the crashing problem?
Yes, resetting File Explorer settings can often help in resolving the crashing problem. To do this, go to the “Folder Options” in File Explorer, select the “View” tab, click on “Reset Folders,” and then restart your computer. However, it’s important to note that resetting File Explorer settings will revert any customizations you have made, so it’s recommended to back up your settings before proceeding.
The Conclusion
In conclusion, dealing with File Explorer crashing on Windows 10 can be a frustrating experience, but with the help of this step-by-step guide, users can effectively resolve the issue. By thoroughly examining and implementing each suggested solution, such as updating drivers, running system file checker, disabling third-party shell extensions, and resetting File Explorer preferences, one can overcome the problem and regain smooth functionality. Additionally, regularly updating Windows and keeping the system clean from malware and unnecessary files can further prevent future crashes. Following these steps and troubleshooting techniques will undoubtedly lead to a stable and reliable File Explorer experience on Windows 10.