Here's how to declutter your PC and maximize its security. Detailed instructions for different methods – via Settings, registry, and group policies. If the Start button is unresponsive, use the Ctrl + Shift + Esc keyboard shortcut to instantly open Task Manager. Windows 11/10 offers the context menu Feb 10, 2024 · Since File Explorer is a process that always runs in the background, using Task Manager to restart it is a natural option. Choose a restore point from before the issue started Restart OneDrive from the Windows Start menu or Mac Finder. Check Disk for Errors File system errors on the system drive can interfere with Storage Sense operations. Jan 12, 2026 · We are going to reset File Explorer and context menu with a batch script to restart File Explorer, and delete the exact registry keys that hold this cached UI/state data. Sep 23, 2024 · Learn 10+ easy methods to Restart File Explorer on Windows 11 and quickly fix Start menu or taskbar issues with this step-by-step guide. Find Windows Explorer, right-click it, and choose End task (your desktop/taskbar may disappear temporarily). In Task Manager, click File → Run new task, type cmd, and check Create this task with administrative privileges. Starting with Windows 11 build 26200. Once enabled, Dark Mode applies to Settings, File Explorer, Start menu, taskbar, and supported applications. To upgrade to Windows 11, you need enough space on your hard drive for the installation to take place. Follow this guide to know how to remove or disable them in Windows 11/10. Fortunately, there are several methods to restart File Explorer without needing to reboot your entire system. This method bypasses some update checks and uses a local installation source. exe) in Windows 11 via CMD or PowerShell, without using Task Manager. Jan 12, 2026 · Reset File Explorer One reason you may find you can’t delete files on a Windows device is because File Explorer has encountered some sort of bug or technical issue. Press the “Ctrl,” “Alt,” and “Delete” keys at the same time and open the “Task Jan 12, 2026 · The OneDrive context menu in Windows 11 allows you to quickly access options like Share, Always keep on this device, Free up space, and View online by right-clicking files or folders. The explorer. But like any system process, File Explorer can freeze, crash, or become unresponsive — especially after long uptime, heavy multitasking, or when dealing with buggy third-party extensions. If there are multiple Jun 2, 2025 · Windows 11 is not just an OS, it’s also an advertising platform. Restarting Windows Explorer helps resolve system issues that may arise during regular use. Go to File > Run new task, type explorer. Restart Windows Explorer Oftentimes, the copy-paste function stops working due to a bug or glitch within Windows. Rollback option: To return to the Windows 11 default menu, delete the same registry key and restart Explorer. Step 2: Update or roll back graphics 9 hours ago · Crashes, forced restarts, corrupted system files, or conflicting third-party software can prevent changes from being saved. Go to Settings > Windows Update and check for updates. Jul 25, 2025 · Learn how to quickly restart File Explorer in Windows 11 to resolve issues and improve performance. Perform a System Restore (If the issue began recently) Boot into Safe Mode or Recovery Mode. Where did it go? Did Windows act up again? Or is it playing hide-and-seek? Jan 9, 2026 · A new Copilot button might be making its way to the File Explorer app on Windows 11, if a newly discovered hidden button is anything to go by. Test with a new Windows user profile (detects profile-specific corruption) Reset File Explorer folder/view settings (clears broken Explorer state) Check for shell extension/context menu conflicts (common after updates) Repair system files (SFC + DISM) If Word is the main app with copy/paste problems Start Word in Safe Mode (quick add-in test) 4 days ago · A non-working touchpad on an Acer laptop can make Windows 11 difficult to use, especially if you don’t have an external mouse nearby. Right-click on the windows icon on the taskbar. Increase performance and eliminate annoying notifications without risking your system. 7 hours ago · Microsoft's default settings for Windows 11 are filled with tiny annoyances, including unnecessary taskbar icons and unwanted apps. 1 day ago · If you're experiencing issues with File Explorer in Windows 10/11, restarting it can often solve the problem. 2. With this app on Windows 11, users can connect their iPhone, manage backups, update iOS, and handle certain types of file transfers more reliably than before. There is a ded Dec 3, 2025 · In this detailed guide, we walk you through four reliable methods to restart File Explorer in Windows 11, complete with easy step-by-step instructions. Get Tom's Hardware's best news and in-depth Jan 9, 2026 · File Explorer is one of the most frequently used components in Windows 11, acting as the central hub for accessing files, folders, and drives. 5 days ago · You can change your Windows display language in just a few minutes through Settings > Time & Language > Language & region. Jan 12, 2026 · To address the issue of File Explorer crashing Windows Explorer, you can try the following troubleshooting steps: Use the System File Checker (SFC): Since you mentioned that you have already run a system scan that showed corrupted files, ensure you run the SFC tool again using the command SFC /scannow in an elevated Command Prompt. In the processes tab, scroll down and locate the Windows Explorer process. If Ctrl C and Ctrl V fail in only one app, the problem is likely caused by that application and not Windows 11 itself. 6 days ago · Restart the File Explorer The quickest and most straightforward way to resolve the “sorry, there was a problem mounting the file” error is by restarting File Explorer. Feb 2, 2024 · Keyboard shortcuts are one of the most underutilized features of any operating system and Windows 11 has many new ones. exe. exe in the background, as it displays the desktop, taskbar, Start menu, and other parts of the user interface. Fix #6: Install Windows 11 25H2 Using ISO or Media Creation Tool If Windows Update keeps failing, installing via ISO often works better. exe, and press Enter 5. 4 days ago · Below are detailed steps to help resolve the persistent black screen problem: Step 1: Restart Windows Explorer If the screen is blank but you can see the cursor, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager. So, you may experience issues since Mach2's settings might be in conflict with Windows 10 settings. Lastly, there's a bug that makes File Explorer windows only partially dark. Works on all versions of Windows 11! 1 day ago · Is your drive visible in Device Manager but missing from File Explorer? Learn how to resolve the common issue: Drive shows up in Device Manager but not in Explorer, quickly using Disk Management and other proven solutions. You’ll need to replace the existing "plum. This reloads your desktop environment. Dec 8, 2022 · This guide shows you how to restart Windows Explorer (explorer. There is currently no official toggle to permanently show the old menu bar. Maybe it’s for a game mod, a software backup, or just good old-fashioned curiosity. Oct 29, 2022 · Restart the Windows Explorer Process via Task Manager The most straightforward way to restart Windows Explorer is to use the Task Manager app in Windows 11 and 10. If it fails everywhere, continue with the system-level fixes below. Jul 21, 2021 · This tutorial will show you how to restart the explorer. One of the core components of Windows, File Explorer, plays a crucial role in file management, allowing users to navigate directories and organize files effectively. 3 days ago · File Explorer crashes fall into two broad categories: transient, where a restart and cache clear fixes the problem, and persistent, where third‑party shell extensions or corrupted system components are responsible. Dec 27, 2024 · It's annoying while trying to access files and folders, but File Explorer freezes up on Windows 11. TaskbarXAML subsystem: In Windows 11, the TaskbarXAML subsystem controls modern taskbar behavior and visual elements. To view how much hard drive space is available on your computer, select File Explorer on the taskbar (known as Windows Explorer in Windows 7) or press Windows logo key + E. Why Change Your Windows Display Language? Learn how to use Microsoft Update Catalog to manually download Windows updates, drivers, and hotfixes. If it works in other apps, update or reinstall the affected software. Detailed guide with all the reliable methods to reset File Explorer in Windows 11. 5641 (Dev 24H2) and build 26120. exe but not to confuse with Internet Explorer, is a default process in Windows 11 responsible for the user interface and shell, file manager, taskbar, Start menu, etc. Sep 12, 2024 · Learn how to effortlessly restart Windows Explorer in Windows 11 with our step-by-step guide to solve performance issues and improve system responsiveness. 3 days ago · Windows 11 KB5074109 causes a black screen on some PCs, including those with an Nvidia GPU, and also freezes Outlook if you use POP. Method 1: Restart Windows Explorer Often, the taskbar becomes unresponsive because of issues with the Windows Explorer process. Even when the program is not open, Windows keeps running explorer. 5 days ago · Outdated or incompatible Dell touchpad drivers Touchpad disabled in BIOS Driver issues after Windows 11 update Dell support utilities conflicting with touchpad drivers Corrupted system files How to Fix Dell Laptop Touchpad Not Working in Windows 11 Follow the methods below one by one. Nov 22, 2024 · Have issues with the Taskbar or File Explorer on your Windows 11 PC? Fix them by restarting Windows Explorer. May 13, 2022 · Ever wanted to reset File Explorer to its default view? This step-by-step guide shows you how to reset File Explorer in Windows 11. If you made a mistake adding or uploading the file to OneDrive, you can delete it or move it out of your OneDrive folders. Dec 23, 2025 · You can do this by opening the Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc), finding "Windows Explorer" in the list, right-clicking it, and selecting "Restart. How to Restart File Explorer in Windows 11 In the dynamic world of operating systems, Windows 11 introduces refined features and functionalities aimed at enhancing user experience. You open File Explorer, head into your user directory, and… it’s not there. The new 2 days ago · Microsoft has confirmed that the Windows 11 January 2026 Update is causing at least three major issues, rolling out fixes for two bugs. 5 days ago · Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager, find “Windows Explorer” in the list, right-click it, and select Restart. Banners, ‘tips’, suggestions to install something from the Microsoft Store – all of this appears in places you don’t expect it: in the Start menu, on the lock screen, even in File Explorer. Here is how to do this: 1. Step 2: Update or roll back graphics Jul 21, 2021 · Windows Explorer, also known as explorer. Right-click Dec 23, 2025 · You can do this by opening the Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc), finding "Windows Explorer" in the list, right-clicking it, and selecting "Restart. sln), an open-source tool for enabling hidden Windows features to enable Dark Theme. Here are four different ways to restart it. Oct 14, 2025 · Depending on how the applications are installed and registered in Windows, there are different ways to configure their startup behavior: Any applications that are registered in Windows with a startup task can be configured from Settings or from Task Manager Other applications can be configured using File Explorer Expand each section to learn more. exe This will forcibly terminate the explorer. This can cause alignment and other UI settings to reset after a refresh. Jan 8, 2026 · ShellBags store every metadata related to folders on your PC. Remove Edge completely or prevent it from running. May 9, 2024 · Is File Explorer acting up on your Windows 11 PC? Learn how to quickly restart it with our easy step-by-step guide. Compare Windows versions and see why you should upgrade from Windows 10 to Windows 11. 3 days ago · You’re digging through your files on Windows 11, and you need to find the AppData folder. Learn how to uninstall or disable Microsoft Edge on Windows using PowerShell, registry edits, and official methods. exe and hit Enter. Struggling with slow File Explorer in Windows 11? Discover proven fixes for 2026 to boost speed, optimize performance, and reclaim your productivity. exe in Windows 11. 6 days ago · How to Enable PDF Preview in Windows 11: Complete Step-by-Step Guide PDF previews in Windows 11 often fail to appear, slowing down file management and increasing the risk of opening the wrong document. Steps to Reset File Explorer to Default View Follow these simple steps if your file explorer looks different from the above image, and you want to change that to the default view. If it’s not listed, go to File > Run new task, type explorer. When F5 stops working, you may notice that folders don’t update, new files don’t appear, deleted files remain visible, or pages don’t refresh unless you reopen them manually. 6 days ago · Restart File Explorer (Task Manager → Windows Explorer → Restart) or reboot. This guide shows you exactly how to switch your interface language, add new languages, and troubleshoot common problems on Windows 10 and 11. exe process is the user shell for Windows, and is used by such items as the desktop, File Explorer, Start menu, notification area, and taskbar. If there are multiple Oct 4, 2025 · This tutorial will show you how to add or remove the Category view in the All apps section on the Start menu for all or specific users in Windows 11. Let’s get started! File Explorer isn’t just a file-management app — it controls: Feb 20, 2025 · To restart File Explorer in Windows 11, do the following: Click on Restart. Sep 18, 2025 · Remotely assisting users with Windows File Explorer issues in the enterprise FAQ Does restarting explorer. Here's what you need to do: Right-click anywhere that's empty on the taskbar and select Task Manager from the context menu to get started. Open a command prompt with administrative privileges and run the following commands: Jan 11, 2026 · Either restart the PC or restart Windows Explorer via Task Manager to activate the classic context menu. Follow these simple steps for a smooth experience. exe process as needed in Windows 11. Jul 19, 2024 · Method 1. exe process is to stop and start it to effectively refresh explorer. Follow this step-by-step guide to restore it to its original state quickly and easily. exe start explorer. Just: Right-click the Start button and select Task Manager. Windows shortcuts are a quick and convenient way to access your most-used files and applications, but the small arrow overlay on these icons can be aesthetically unappealing to some users. Method 3: Restart File Explorer Using Command Prompt Open Command Prompt as administrator, and execute these commands one by one: taskkill /f /im explorer. The Microsoft OneDrive icons in desktop notification areas, menu bars, Windows File Explorer and macOS Finder tell you the sync state of the file or folder. Keep in mind that you cannot simply close all File Explorer windows. Provides troubleshooting options for problems that affect the search results for the Windows Search feature in Windows 11 and Windows 10. To open… Feb 10, 2024 · Restarting File Explorer on Windows can be a quick fix to many problems. Once you have your file, transfer it to the same location on your new device. This refreshes the desktop without rebooting. When it freezes or crashes, everyday tasks can come to a sudden halt. You'll see the task bar disappear and reappear as the Windows Explorer process restarts. Go to Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > System Restore. Repeat the test in a web browser and File Explorer. Learn how to use Microsoft Update Catalog to manually download Windows updates, drivers, and hotfixes. This article provides step-by-step instructions on how to restart File Explorer to get it working smoothly again. If you don't see any desktop notification or menu bar icons, OneDrive may be hidden, not installed or not running. Alternatively, you can press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard. Restarting the app will ensure it reads the new file and loads your transferred notes. exe on Windows 10 and Windows 11? Can restarting the Windows File Explorer be scripted? What should you do if restarting explorer. May 28, 2024 · Resetting File Explorer to default settings in Windows 11 can resolve various issues. In Windows 11, the key is deeply tied to system shortcuts and the Start menu, so even small configuration changes can disable it. exe does not resolve issues? Sep 9, 2021 · At any point, you want to remove the Restart explorer option from the desktop context menu in Windows 11, then use “Remove restart explorer context menu” registry file. This process can easily be done by opening Task Manager on your computer. Jan 11, 2026 · There are ways to restart File Explorer without a full reboot; typically, you open your Task Manager, find Windows Explorer in the list of running processes, right-click it, and select Restart. Nov 20, 2025 · If your File Explorer, taskbar, or Start menu starts to have issues, it may be best to try a simple restart of Windows Explorer to see if this can quickly fix these sorts of problems with your Windows 11 computer. Why the Windows Key Stops Working in Windows 11 Before applying fixes, it helps to understand what usually breaks the Windows key. You use it to browse files, manage folders, open drives, and access countless system features. sqlite" file. Nov 29, 2023 · Before the Windows 10 dark theme was released, people used Mach2 (mach2. 3 days ago · Apple has introduced the Apple Devices app for Windows as a modern replacement for iTunes when it comes to managing iPhones on a PC. 6 days ago · Learn why Windows cannot open iPhone HEIC photos by default and discover the best methods to view and convert HEIC files on Windows 10 and 11. The issue is usually caused by File Explorer settings, outdated PDF software, or disabled preview handlers. 4250 (Beta 24H2), Microsoft introduced a new redesigned Start menu. 1. Oct 4, 2025 · This tutorial will show you how to add or remove the Category view in the All apps section on the Start menu for all or specific users in Windows 11. Many users have found that restarting their PC or Windows Explorer fixes the issue, though often only temporarily. Step 4: Restart Sticky Notes Open the Sticky Notes app on your new device. After each step, check whether the touchpad starts working. Here’s how you can install using an ISO file. Easily fix errors. Jan 18, 2025 · Windows Explorer is a shell in Windows 11 that allows users to navigate the system and resolve bugs or errors. Restarting this process can refresh the taskbar without requiring a full reboot. However, many users report that OneDrive options are missing from the right-click menu, making it difficult to manage OneDrive files directly from File Explorer. Methods like Task Manager, Command Prompt, and batch files can be used to restart Windows Explorer Aug 12, 2024 · When working diligently on your files and folders in Windows 11, a sudden freeze in File Explorer can severely disrupt your productivity. 6. Step-by-step solutions inside! 2 days ago · Restart Your Computer: A simple restart can often resolve minor glitches affecting the taskbar. Jan 12, 2026 · Windows 11's File Explorer can sometimes feel like slog to navigate through - here are five tips and tricks to make the program lighter on its feet. " Check for Windows Updates: Ensure your system is up to date as updates may fix bugs related to File Explorer. Restarting the explorer. This Blocks the Copilot Packaged COM CLSID from appearing in the modern context menu and is widely used because it’s low‑risk and reversible by deleting the string. 4 days ago · Winslop is an open source tool that removes Windows 11 bloatware, disables AI features like Copilot, and restores useful settings in minutes. Hold down Ctrl+Shift+Esc keys to open the Task Manager. Find Windows Explorer, right-click it, and select Restart. 3. Feb 20, 2025 · Want to restart the Explorer process in Windows 11/10? You can use the Task Manager, BAT file, or Command Prompt to restart File Explorer. Step 2: Restart Windows Explorer Safely 1 day ago · Windows 11 allows you to enable Dark Mode system-wide or customize it for apps and system elements separately. To restart File Explorer in Windows 10, do the following: Click on Restart. Then select Computer or This PC and look under Hard Disk Drives or under Devices and drives. 6 days ago · Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) and end the task for Windows Explorer. Step 1. Jan 13, 2026 · Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager Locate Windows Explorer Right-click it and select Restart Restarting Explorer refreshes system processes related to storage management. Jan 11, 2026 · Reset Windows Update components by opening Command Prompt as administrator and executing the following commands to stop update services, clear cached files, and restart the update mechanism with fresh configurations. Learn how to safely and correctly disable SmartScreen in Windows 11. Dec 3, 2025 · File Explorer is one of the core components of Windows 11. Nov 25, 2024 · Restart File Explorer in Windows 11 Using Task Manager One of the essential and straightforward ways to restart File Explorer is to use these steps in Task Manager. Mar 21, 2025 · Right-click Windows Explorer and select Restart. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task 1 day ago · The F5 key is commonly used in Windows 11 to refresh File Explorer, desktop icons, folders, and some applications. . Find KB numbers, download MSU and CAB files, and install updates offline. Jan 9, 2026 · A new Copilot button might be making its way to the File Explorer app on Windows 11, if a newly discovered hidden button is anything to go by. 1 day ago · Move the copied file to your new device. Many users report issues such as the touchpad completely not responding, working intermittently, or disappearing from settings and Device Manager after upgrading to Windows 11 or installing updates. Understanding the Menu Bar Changes in Windows 11 Windows 11 replaced the traditional File Explorer menu bar with a compact command bar. May 27, 2022 · kill -n explorer stop-process -name explorer -force It will restart the File Explorer immediately. Closing File Explorer and reopening it is not how you restart explorer. Feb 20, 2024 · Hey! Welcome to HOWZA channel! In today's tutorial, you will learn how to restart file explorer in Windows 11. However, there are two reliable approaches: a temporary built-in method and a permanent workaround using system-level adjustments. Find out the difference between Windows 11 Home and Pro to see which is best for you. exe process and then start it. exe affect other programs? Is it safe to restart explorer. How to Restart File Explorer in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide File Explorer is an essential component of the Windows operating system, acting as the primary interface for navigating files, folders, drives, and other storage devices. 5 days ago · Chipset drivers After updating, restart your PC before retrying the installation. Resetting the program may be all that’s needed to resolve the problem. Learn more.

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