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Troubleshooting 'File Explorer Keeps Crashing' on Windows

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Troubleshooting 'File Explorer Keeps Crashing' on Windows

Are you feeling frustrated because your File Explorer on Windows keeps crashing? I know how annoying it can get when you're trying to access your files or do some work, and suddenly, everything just disappears, leaving you staring at your desktop screen wondering, "What just happened?" Well, fret not! This guide is crafted to help you tackle and troubleshoot the 'File Explorer Keeps Crashing' issue on Windows in simple English, with easy-to-follow instructions.

Understanding File Explorer

First things first, let's understand what File Explorer is. It's a crucial component of the Windows operating system that lets you browse your files and folders. Think of it as the librarian of your computer, organizing and helping you find your digital documents, pictures, and everything else stored inside your PC.

Why Does File Explorer Crash?

There could be multiple reasons why File Explorer crashes, including corrupted system files, outdated or faulty drivers, conflicting third-party applications, or even malware. Let's go through some troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve this pesky issue.

1. Restart File Explorer

Sometimes, a simple restart of the File Explorer can fix this issue. Here's how you do it:

  1. Right-click on the taskbar and select 'Task Manager.'
  2. Find 'Windows Explorer' in the list, right-click on it, and choose 'Restart.'

2. Clear File Explorer History

Clearing your history can sometimes solve the crashing issue. To do this:

  1. Open File Explorer, click on the 'View' tab, then click on 'Options' to open Folder Options.
  2. Under the 'General' tab, find 'Privacy' and click on 'Clear.'

3. Run System File Checker

Corrupted system files can be the root cause of this problem. Windows has a built-in tool called System File Checker (SFC) to repair them:

  1. Press Windows key + X and select 'Command Prompt (Admin)' or 'Windows PowerShell (Admin).'
  2. Type sfc /scannow and hit enter. Wait until the process completes.

4. Check for Updates

Make sure your Windows is up to date. Outdated system files can lead to all sorts of problems, including Explorer crashes.

  1. Go to 'Settings' -> 'Update & Security' -> 'Windows Update.'
  2. Click on 'Check for updates.' Install any available updates.

5. Disable Thumbnails

Thumbnails can sometimes cause Explorer to crash, particularly with corrupted files. Disabling them might help:

  1. Open File Explorer Options as previously described.
  2. Under the 'View' tab, check 'Always show icons, never thumbnails.'
  3. Click 'Apply' and 'OK.'

6. Update Drivers

Outdated or corrupt drivers, especially graphics drivers, can cause File Explorer to act up:

  1. Press Windows key + X and select 'Device Manager.'
  2. Expand 'Display adapters,' right-click on your graphics card and choose 'Update driver.'

7. Scan for Malware

Malware can often cause unexpected issues. Run a comprehensive scan of your system using Windows Defender or your preferred antivirus software.

8. Perform a Clean Boot

Sometimes, third-party applications cause conflicts leading to crashes. Performing a clean boot can help you determine if this is the case:

  1. Type 'msconfig' in the search and press Enter to open System Configuration.
  2. Go to the 'Services' tab, check 'Hide all Microsoft services,' and click 'Disable all.'
  3. Switch to the 'Startup' tab and click 'Open Task Manager.' Disable all startup items.
  4. Restart your computer.

9. Reset File Explorer to Default

Resetting File Explorer to its default settings might also help:

  1. Open File Explorer Options.
  2. Click on 'Restore Defaults' under both the 'General' and 'View' tabs.

10. Create a New User Account

Sometimes, the issue might be with your user profile. Creating a new user account can resolve this:

  1. Go to Settings -> Accounts -> Family & other users.
  2. Click on 'Add someone else to this PC' and follow the prompts to create a new account.

Conclusion

File Explorer crashing can disrupt your workflow and cause frustration. However, by systematically going through these troubleshooting steps, you can identify and resolve the issue. Remember to back up your data regularly to prevent loss in case of severe system issues. If none of these solutions work, it might be time to consult with a professional or consider reinstalling Windows. Stay patient and methodical, and you'll have File Explorer up and running smoothly in no time.