File Explorer Keeps Crashing, Freezing or Has Stopped Working in Windows 11/10 [Solution]

Introduction

This tutorial provides solutions for users experiencing issues with File Explorer crashing or freezing on Windows 10 and 11. File Explorer plays a critical role in navigating and managing files, and resolving these issues is essential for smooth operation. In this guide, we will outline several actionable steps to troubleshoot and fix these problems effectively.

Step 1: Restart File Explorer

Restarting the File Explorer process can often resolve temporary issues.

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Under the Processes tab, locate Windows Explorer.
3. Right-click on it and select Restart.
4. Check if the problem persists.

Step 2: Clear File Explorer History

Clearing the File Explorer history can help eliminate corrupted entries that may cause crashes.

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click on the View tab in the ribbon.
3. Select Options.
4. In the General tab, click Clear next to Clear File Explorer history.
5. Click OK to exit.

Step 3: Run System File Checker

Using the System File Checker tool can help fix corrupted system files that may affect File Explorer.

1. Open the Start Menu and type cmd.
2. Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
3. In the command window, type the following command and press Enter:

   sfc /scannow
   

4. Wait for the scan to complete, then restart your computer.

Step 4: Check for Windows Updates

Ensuring your system is up to date can resolve bugs that impact File Explorer.

1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
2. Navigate to Update & Security.
3. Click on Check for updates.
4. Install any available updates and restart your computer.

Step 5: Disable Quick Access

Disabling Quick Access may help if it's causing File Explorer to crash.

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click on the View tab and select Options.
3. Under the General tab, change the option for Open File Explorer to from Quick Access to This PC.
4. Click OK to apply changes.

Step 6: Modify the Registry (Advanced)

If the previous steps did not resolve the issue, you can modify the registry.

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type regedit and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
3. Navigate to:

   HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer
   

4. Look for the Advanced folder and select it.
5. Right-click on the right pane and create a new DWORD (32-bit) Value named NoStartupDelay.
6. Set its value to 1.
7. Restart your computer.

Step 7: Disable Hardware Acceleration

Disabling hardware acceleration may help with performance-related issues in File Explorer.

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click on View and select Options.
3. Go to the View tab.
4. Check the box for Use reduced color mode and Disable hardware acceleration if available.
5. Click OK and restart File Explorer.

Step 8: Use Command Prompt to Adjust Settings

Using the Command Prompt can also help address persistent issues.

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Type the following command and press Enter:

   bcdedit.exe /set {current} nx AlwaysOff
   

3. Restart your computer and check if File Explorer operates correctly.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve issues with File Explorer crashing or freezing in Windows 10 and 11. Start with the simpler solutions and progress to more advanced troubleshooting as needed. If problems persist, consider reaching out to Microsoft support or exploring community forums for additional assistance.