Fix Explorerexe Application Error On Windows 11/10

The explorer.exe application, also known as Windows Explorer or File Explorer, is a crucial component of the Windows operating system. It’s responsible for managing the graphical user interface, including the taskbar, desktop, and file management. When explorer.exe encounters an error, it can lead to a variety of issues, such as a frozen screen, unresponsive taskbar, or even system crashes. This can be a frustrating experience for Windows 11 and Windows 10 users.

Fortunately, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve explorer.exe application errors. These solutions range from simple fixes like restarting File Explorer to more advanced techniques such as checking system files and updating drivers. By systematically working through these steps, you can often identify and resolve the underlying cause of the error and restore your system to normal functionality.

How Do I Fix the Explorer.exe Application Error?

Restart File Explorer

The simplest solution is often the most effective. Restarting File Explorer can resolve temporary glitches.

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Click on “More details” if Task Manager is in compact mode.
3. Locate “Windows Explorer” in the “Processes” tab.
4. Right-click on “Windows Explorer” and select “Restart”.

Run System File Checker (SFC)

Corrupted system files can cause explorer.exe errors. SFC can scan and repair these files.

1. Press the Windows key, type “cmd”, right-click on “Command Prompt”, and select “Run as administrator”.
2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
3. Wait for the scan to complete. This may take some time.
4. Restart your computer after the scan finishes.

Check Disk for Errors

Disk errors can also lead to application problems.

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Right-click on your system drive (usually C:) and select “Properties”.
3. Go to the “Tools” tab.
4. Click on “Check” under “Error checking”.
5. Click “Scan drive”.
6. Follow any on-screen instructions.

Update Display Drivers

Outdated or corrupted display drivers can sometimes cause issues with explorer.exe.

1. Press Windows + X and select “Device Manager”.
2. Expand “Display adapters”.
3. Right-click on your graphics card and select “Update driver”.
4. Choose “Search automatically for drivers”.
5. If an update is found, follow the instructions to install it.
6. Restart your computer.

Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs. This can help identify if a third-party application is causing the error.

1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
2. Go to the “Services” tab.
3. Check “Hide all Microsoft services”.
4. Click “Disable all”.
5. Go to the “Startup” tab and click “Open Task Manager”.
6. Disable all startup items in Task Manager.
7. Close Task Manager and click “Apply” and “OK” in the System Configuration window.
8. Restart your computer.

Check for Malware

Malware infections can interfere with system processes.

1. Run a full system scan using your preferred antivirus software.
2. Follow the antivirus software’s instructions to remove any detected threats.
3. Restart your computer after the scan.

Reset Windows Explorer Options

Sometimes, customized File Explorer settings can cause issues.

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click the three dots (…) in the top right corner and select “Options”.
3. In the “General” tab, click “Restore Defaults”.
4. In the “View” tab, click “Restore Defaults”.
5. Click “Apply” and “OK”.

System Restore

If the problem started recently, System Restore can revert your system to a previous state.

1. Press the Windows key, type “Create a restore point”, and press Enter.
2. Click “System Restore”.
3. Click “Next”.
4. Choose a restore point from the list.
5. Click “Scan for affected programs” to see which programs will be affected.
6. Click “Close” and then “Next”.
7. Click “Finish” to start the restore process.

Tips

• Keep your Windows operating system updated with the latest patches and updates.
• Regularly scan your system for malware and viruses.
• Avoid installing software from untrusted sources.
• Back up your important data regularly to prevent data loss in case of system errors.

Getting Your Explorer Running Smoothly Again

Resolving explorer.exe application errors often involves a systematic approach to identify and address the underlying cause. By going through the troubleshooting steps above, you can often restore stability and functionality to your Windows system.

FAQ

What causes explorer.exe application error? Corrupted system files, outdated drivers, malware infections, or conflicting software can cause explorer.exe errors.

How do I restart explorer.exe in Windows 11? Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager, find “Windows Explorer”, right-click, and select “Restart”.

Can a virus cause explorer.exe to crash? Yes, malware infections can interfere with system processes and cause explorer.exe to crash.

What should I do if explorer.exe keeps crashing after trying these steps? Consider performing a clean boot or a system restore to revert your system to a previous state, or as a last resort, consider reinstalling Windows.

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