{"id":1299,"date":"2024-03-08T06:20:48","date_gmt":"2024-03-08T06:20:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/?p=1299"},"modified":"2024-06-28T05:57:20","modified_gmt":"2024-06-28T05:57:20","slug":"file-explorer-not-responding","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/file-explorer-not-responding\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Fix File Explorer not Responding on Windows 10?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Have you ever tried to access a file and been suddenly faced with File Explorer not responding? Well, the first thing you should know is it is very fixable, and there&#8217;s no cause for alarm.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Windows 10 File Explorer not working can result from various issues. However, do not worry. We have a technical team aiming at solving various computer-related issues, such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/black-screen-windows\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">fixing the black screen of death<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This guide will provide a step-by-step guide with a pictorial representation of how to fix File Explorer is not responding problems on your own. All you have to do is keep reading.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_73 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/file-explorer-not-responding\/#Whats_File_Explorer_And_Its_Function\" title=\"What&#8217;s File Explorer And Its Function?\">What&#8217;s File Explorer And Its Function?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/file-explorer-not-responding\/#Why_is_My_File_Explorer_not_Opening\" title=\"Why is My File Explorer not Opening?\">Why is My File Explorer not Opening?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/file-explorer-not-responding\/#6_Solutions_to_Fix_Windows_File_Explorer_Not_Responding\" title=\"6 Solutions to Fix Windows File Explorer Not Responding\">6 Solutions to Fix Windows File Explorer Not Responding<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/file-explorer-not-responding\/#Restarting_File_Explorer_from_Task_Manager_to_fix_File_Explorer_not_Responding\" title=\"Restarting File Explorer from Task Manager to fix File Explorer not Responding\">Restarting File Explorer from Task Manager to fix File Explorer not Responding<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/file-explorer-not-responding\/#Fix_File_Explorer_not_Responding_by_Running_a_System_File_Checker_Scan\" title=\"Fix File Explorer not Responding by Running a System File Checker Scan\">Fix File Explorer not Responding by Running a System File Checker Scan<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/file-explorer-not-responding\/#Disable_Startup_Applications_to_Fix_File_Explorer_not_responding\" title=\"Disable Startup Applications to Fix File Explorer not responding\">Disable Startup Applications to Fix File Explorer not responding<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/file-explorer-not-responding\/#Fix_Issues_Related_to_Memory_to_Fix_File_Explorer_not_Responding\" title=\"Fix Issues Related to Memory to Fix File Explorer not Responding\">Fix Issues Related to Memory to Fix File Explorer not Responding<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/file-explorer-not-responding\/#Update_Your_Video_Drivers_to_Fix_File_Explorer_not_responding\" title=\"Update Your Video Drivers to Fix File Explorer not responding\">Update Your Video Drivers to Fix File Explorer not responding<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/file-explorer-not-responding\/#Fix_File_Explorer_not_responding_by_Changing_the_Display_Settings\" title=\"Fix File Explorer not responding by Changing the Display Settings\">Fix File Explorer not responding by Changing the Display Settings<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/file-explorer-not-responding\/#Conclusion\" title=\"Conclusion\">Conclusion<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/file-explorer-not-responding\/#FAQs_on_File_Explorer_not_Responding\" title=\"FAQs&nbsp;on File Explorer not Responding\">FAQs&nbsp;on File Explorer not Responding<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Whats_File_Explorer_And_Its_Function\"><\/span>What&#8217;s File Explorer And Its Function?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File_Explorer\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" title=\"\">File Explorer<\/a>, or Windows Explorer, is a Windows application used to manage users&#8217; files. It enables users to access the system&#8217;s files and folders easily. It is essential to navigating basic functions like copying, moving, deleting, organizing files, etc.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sometimes you may need to find a file within over 3,000 files, in this situation, the Search box in the File Explorer may fasten this process. <\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"719\" height=\"426\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/the-function-of-file-explorer.jpg\" alt=\"the function of file explorer\" class=\"wp-image-1570\" style=\"width:550px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/the-function-of-file-explorer.jpg 719w, https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/the-function-of-file-explorer-300x178.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 719px) 100vw, 719px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Meanwhile, you have a file to work on and the computer suddenly crashes, which leads to your Windows Explorer misbehaving.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While it is practical, File Explorer not working on Windows 10 isn&#8217;t uncommon, hence the need for this guide. Instances such as &#8220;Why is my File Explorer not responding?&#8221; and &#8220;Why won&#8217;t Windows Explorer open?&#8221; are common.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_is_My_File_Explorer_not_Opening\"><\/span>Why is My File Explorer not Opening?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Your File Explorer may not be responding for several reasons. Some of these reasons include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u274c<strong>Corrupted System Files:<\/strong> Damage or corruption in Windows system files, such as explorer.exe (which runs File Explorer), and ntdll.dll (a system library), can lead to File Explorer issues.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u2699\ufe0f<strong>File Explorer<\/strong> <strong>Settings or Configuration Issues:<\/strong> Some changes in how folders and files are displayed can lead to misconfigured folders. It may affect the proper functionality of File Explorer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udd27<strong>Conflicting Applications<\/strong>: Due to some third-party software interference, your File Explorer may be prevented from opening.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\udda5\ufe0f<strong>Outdated Windows Versions:<\/strong> Using obsolete versions of Windows is bound to lead to errors as it affects the functionality of your File Explorer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\ud83d\uddd1\ufe0f<strong>Insufficient Space:<\/strong> Your File Explorer needs space to function. It can be unresponsive if your computer lacks space and has numerous installed applications.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Solutions_to_Fix_Windows_File_Explorer_Not_Responding\"><\/span>6 Solutions to Fix Windows File Explorer Not Responding<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>File Explorer is not responding on Windows 10\u00a0 isn&#8217;t something to panic about anymore, as there are now numerous solutions to troubleshoot and fix this problem. All of these solutions you can handle on your own, and they include;\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><tbody><tr><td>\ud83d\udcc3<strong>Solution<\/strong><\/td><td>\ud83d\udee0\ufe0f<strong>Step-by-Step Guide<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>1. Restarting File Explorer from Task Manager&nbsp;<\/td><td>Begin by accessing the Task Manager by right-clicking on the taskbar, or pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open it directly\u2026. <a href=\"#1\" title=\"\">Continue reading<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2. Running a system file checker scan<\/td><td>On your system, press and hold down \u2018\u2019Windows + R\u2019\u2019 on your keyboard to access the Run utility\u2026. <a href=\"#22\" title=\"\">Continue reading<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>3. Disable startup applications<\/td><td>Press and hold \u201cCtrl+Shift+Esc\u201d to open the \u201cTask Manager\u201d&#8230;.. <a href=\"#33\" title=\"\">Continue reading<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>4. Fix issues related with memory&nbsp;<\/td><td>Access Windows Memory Diagnostic by clicking \u201cWindows + R\u201d and typing the command \u201cmdsched.exe\u201d and selecting Enter\u2026.. <a href=\"#44\" title=\"\">Continue reading<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>5.&nbsp; Update your video drivers&nbsp;<\/td><td>Click on the Start menu, type and search &#8220;Device Manager\u201d then click\u2026.. <a href=\"#55\" title=\"\">Continue reading<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>6. Changing the display settings<\/td><td>Right-click on your desktop and select \u201cDisplay Settings\u201d from the list of options\u2026\u2026 <a href=\"#66\" title=\"\">Continue reading<\/a><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Restarting_File_Explorer_from_Task_Manager_to_fix_File_Explorer_not_Responding\"><\/span>Restarting File Explorer from Task Manager to fix File Explorer not Responding<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Restarting File Explorer is one effective way to fix File Explorer not responding. Below are steps to fix the problem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 1.<\/strong> Begin by accessing the Task Manager by right-clicking on the Taskbar or pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open it directly.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"668\" height=\"595\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/task-manager-screen.png\" alt=\"task manager screen\" class=\"wp-image-1301\" style=\"width:500px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/task-manager-screen.png 668w, https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/task-manager-screen-300x267.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 668px) 100vw, 668px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 2.<\/strong> Find and click on Windows Explorer under the &#8220;Processes&#8221; or &#8220;Details&#8221; tab.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"740\" height=\"595\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/end-task-option.png\" alt=\"end task option\" class=\"wp-image-1303\" style=\"width:600px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/end-task-option.png 740w, https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/end-task-option-300x241.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 740px) 100vw, 740px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 3.<\/strong> Proceed to right-click on &#8220;Windows Explorer&#8221; and select &#8220;End task&#8221; from the drop-down menu.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 4.<\/strong> Locate and click on &#8220;File&#8221; in the upper left corner of your screen, then select &#8220;Run new task&#8221;.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"516\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/run-new-task.png\" alt=\"run new task\" class=\"wp-image-1304\" style=\"width:700px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/run-new-task.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/run-new-task-300x151.png 300w, https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/run-new-task-768x387.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 5.<\/strong> On the &#8220;Create new task&#8221; prompt screen, input &#8220;explorer.exe&#8221; in the box provided and click on &#8220;OK.&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"740\" height=\"595\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/explorer.png\" alt=\"explorer\" class=\"wp-image-1305\" style=\"width:600px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/explorer.png 740w, https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/explorer-300x241.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 740px) 100vw, 740px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"22\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Fix_File_Explorer_not_Responding_by_Running_a_System_File_Checker_Scan\"><\/span>Fix File Explorer not Responding by Running a System File Checker Scan<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A common problem in your drive such as DLL files being corrupted may lead to Windows Explorer not responding. To solve this problem, run a system file checker scan by following the steps below:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 1.<\/strong> On your system, press and hold down &#8220;Windows + R&#8221; on your keyboard to access the Run utility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 2.<\/strong> Type &#8220;cmd&#8221; into the provided space followed by &#8220;Ctrl+Shift+Enter&#8221; to access the Command Prompt for Admin.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"438\" height=\"242\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/cmd.png\" alt=\"cmd\" class=\"wp-image-1306\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/cmd.png 438w, https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/cmd-300x166.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 438px) 100vw, 438px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 3.<\/strong> Type in the command &#8220;sfc \/scannow&#8221; and press enter to initiate the system file checker scan and wait for the scan to complete as it will automatically fix corrupted system files.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After the scan, check to see if all files were restored.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"692\" height=\"421\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/sfc-check.png\" alt=\"sfc check\" class=\"wp-image-1307\" style=\"width:550px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/sfc-check.png 692w, https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/sfc-check-300x183.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 692px) 100vw, 692px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"33\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Disable_Startup_Applications_to_Fix_File_Explorer_not_responding\"><\/span>Disable Startup Applications to Fix File Explorer not responding<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>File Explorer not working can also result from numerous startup applications running in the background when you put your system on. These various applications can slow down the entire system and may interfere with each other, but they can be stopped by taking the following steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 1.<\/strong> Press and hold &#8220;Ctrl+Shift+Esc&#8221; to open the &#8220;Task Manager.&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"268\" height=\"282\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/task-manager.png\" alt=\"task manager\" class=\"wp-image-1308\" style=\"width:250px\"\/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 2.<\/strong> Find and click the &#8220;Startup&#8221; tab to display a list of all apps currently running in the background.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 3.<\/strong> Proceed to &#8220;Disable&#8221; any applications you don&#8217;t want to keep open to prevent them from constantly launching at startup.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"652\" height=\"602\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/startup-then-disable-.png\" alt=\"startup then disable\" class=\"wp-image-1309\" style=\"width:500px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/startup-then-disable-.png 652w, https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/startup-then-disable--300x277.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 652px) 100vw, 652px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 4.<\/strong> Restart your system to apply changes, and retry Explorer to check effectiveness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"44\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Fix_Issues_Related_to_Memory_to_Fix_File_Explorer_not_Responding\"><\/span>Fix Issues Related to Memory to Fix File Explorer not Responding<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>With memory playing an essential role in how the File Explorer functions, Windows Explorer not responding can easily be traced to memory issues. Some ways to solve these problems include;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udccb<strong>Using Windows Memory Diagnostic<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 1.<\/strong> Access Windows Memory Diagnostic by Clicking &#8220;Windows + R&#8221;, typing the command &#8220;mdsched.exe,&#8221; and selecting Enter.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"353\" height=\"616\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/windows-memory-diagnostic.png\" alt=\"windows memory diagnostic\" class=\"wp-image-1310\" style=\"width:300px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/windows-memory-diagnostic.png 353w, https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/windows-memory-diagnostic-172x300.png 172w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 353px) 100vw, 353px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 2.<\/strong> Check for problems and select immediate check or schedule for the next reboot when prompted.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"408\" height=\"326\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/restart-and-check-for-problems.png\" alt=\"restart and check for problems\" class=\"wp-image-1312\" style=\"width:300px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/restart-and-check-for-problems.png 408w, https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/restart-and-check-for-problems-300x240.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 408px) 100vw, 408px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 3.<\/strong> Restarting your system will initiate the memory diagnostic to run and resolve any memory-related problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\uddd1\ufe0f<strong>Clean the Temporary Files in the Hard Drive<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To solve File Explorer not working issues that are related to space, you can clean the temporary files in the hard drive. To clear your hard drive, use the following steps;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 1.<\/strong> Go to Settings and select \u201cSystem\u201d when you see it.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"921\" height=\"818\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/system-storage.png\" alt=\"system storage\" class=\"wp-image-1314\" style=\"width:600px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/system-storage.png 921w, https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/system-storage-300x266.png 300w, https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/system-storage-768x682.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 921px) 100vw, 921px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 2.<\/strong> Select Storage under &#8220;Temporary files&#8221;, and select desired categories.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"912\" height=\"813\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/temporary-files.png\" alt=\"temporary files\" class=\"wp-image-1315\" style=\"width:600px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/temporary-files.png 912w, https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/temporary-files-300x267.png 300w, https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/temporary-files-768x685.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 912px) 100vw, 912px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 4. <\/strong>Select &#8220;Remove Files&#8221; and confirm deletion when prompted.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\uddc2\ufe0f<strong>Clear File Explorer History<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>File Explorer history often saves recent files and folders used in your system. This history of keeping track of numerous data can lead to File Explorer not working in Windows 10. Clearing the file history can be done quickly using the following steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 1.<\/strong> Go to the search bar and type &#8220;File Explorer Options.&#8221;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"343\" height=\"616\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/file-explorer-options.png\" alt=\"file explorer options\" class=\"wp-image-1316\" style=\"width:300px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/file-explorer-options.png 343w, https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/file-explorer-options-167x300.png 167w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 343px) 100vw, 343px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 2.<\/strong> Select the File Explorer Options, and in the General tab, find &#8220;Clear&#8221; under &#8220;Privacy.&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 3.<\/strong> Click &#8220;Clear&#8221; to empty recent files and folder history, then select &#8220;Apply&#8221; to apply changes if prompted.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"376\" height=\"470\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/clear-history.png\" alt=\"clear history\" class=\"wp-image-1317\" style=\"width:400px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/clear-history.png 376w, https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/clear-history-240x300.png 240w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 376px) 100vw, 376px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 4.<\/strong> Select &#8220;OK&#8221; to save changes, then restart your computer before checking to see if the problem is now resolved.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"55\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Update_Your_Video_Drivers_to_Fix_File_Explorer_not_responding\"><\/span>Update Your Video Drivers to Fix File Explorer not responding<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Another swift fix to try if File Explorer is not responding is updating your video drivers. As video drivers play an important role in facilitating the connection between the operating system and the GPU. Outdated or corrupted video drivers can cause rendering issues, leading to File Explorer becoming unresponsive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udc49To do this on Windows 10, follow these quick and easy steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 1.<\/strong> Click on the Start menu, type and search &#8220;Device Manager&#8221;, then click.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"396\" height=\"496\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/device-manager.png\" alt=\"device manager\" class=\"wp-image-1318\" style=\"width:350px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/device-manager.png 396w, https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/device-manager-240x300.png 240w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 396px) 100vw, 396px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 2.<\/strong> Locate Display Adapters on the list of options, click on it, and proceed to find your graphics card.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 3.<\/strong> Right-click on your &#8220;Graphics card&#8221; and select &#8220;Update driver&#8221; to access updates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"525\" height=\"219\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/update-driver.png\" alt=\"update driver\" class=\"wp-image-1319\" style=\"width:450px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/update-driver.png 525w, https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/update-driver-300x125.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 525px) 100vw, 525px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 4.<\/strong> Select &#8220;Search automatically for updated driver software&#8221; and follow the on-screen instructions to install if any updates are found.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"609\" height=\"426\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/search-for-automatically-for-updated-driver-software-.png\" alt=\"search-for-automatically for updated driver software\" class=\"wp-image-1320\" style=\"width:500px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/search-for-automatically-for-updated-driver-software-.png 609w, https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/search-for-automatically-for-updated-driver-software--300x210.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 609px) 100vw, 609px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 5.<\/strong> Proceed to restart your computer to apply changes, then check your Windows 10 File Explorer to see if the problem is solved.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"66\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Fix_File_Explorer_not_responding_by_Changing_the_Display_Settings\"><\/span>Fix File Explorer not responding by Changing the Display Settings<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>While seemingly irrelevant, the display settings, significantly when customized, can contribute to the problem. Formatting display settings to original settings can correct this error. To do this easily, use the following steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 1. <\/strong>Right-click on your desktop and select &#8220;Display Settings&#8221; from the list of options.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"775\" height=\"533\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/display-settings.png\" alt=\"display settings\" class=\"wp-image-1321\" style=\"width:500px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/display-settings.png 775w, https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/display-settings-300x206.png 300w, https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/display-settings-768x528.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 775px) 100vw, 775px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 2.<\/strong> Under &#8220;Scale and layout,&#8221; adjust settings, preferably to recommended settings.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 3.<\/strong> Select &#8220;Apply&#8221; to save changes, then restart your computer before checking if File Explorer is now responsive.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"775\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/scale-and-layout.png\" alt=\"scale and layout\" class=\"wp-image-1322\" style=\"width:500px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/scale-and-layout.png 775w, https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/scale-and-layout-300x223.png 300w, https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/scale-and-layout-768x571.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 775px) 100vw, 775px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span>Conclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Having a functional and responsive Windows File Explorer is very important for the smooth functionality of your system. This article has listed some reasons why your Windows Explorer isn&#8217;t responding and included a step-by-step guide on solving this problem without being a tech expert.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs_on_File_Explorer_not_Responding\"><\/span>FAQs&nbsp;on File Explorer not Responding<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The File Explorer not responding can result from various reasons, and this comprehensive guide has answered most questions and provided solutions. However, if you still have questions, here are a few frequently asked questions that might be what you&#8217;re looking for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>1\ufe0f\u20e3<strong>How do I Fix File Explorer crashing on Windows 10?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are several ways to fix File Explorer crashing on Windows 10, such as updating video drivers, freeing up space by clearing temporary files and running a System File Checker scan. All of which are sure to keep your File Explorer from crashing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>2\ufe0f\u20e3<strong>How Do You Fix Windows 10 File Explorer not opening?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If your Windows 10 File Explorer isn&#8217;t opening, you can try an easy fix by restarting the system. If restarting your system doesn&#8217;t fix it, you can proceed to check if your Windows is up to date and update to the latest version.&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Have you ever tried to access a file and been suddenly faced with File Explorer&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":440,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[8],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1299","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-computer-problems"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1299","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1299"}],"version-history":[{"count":9,"href":"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1299\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1576,"href":"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1299\/revisions\/1576"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/440"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1299"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1299"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.tinyfrom.com\/windows-tips\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1299"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}