Our 5 Tested Ways To Fix File Explorer Crashing In Windows 11

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Uzair Shabir

At HI Digital I test and write about different hardware configurations to show other PC users what they can expect from their build. My end goal is to educate the masses to make the right decision when they are looking for new PC parts to buy

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Managing files, directories, and other data stored on a computer, mobile device, or any external storage device such as an HDD or USB drive is convenient with File Explorer. However, sometimes you may encounter File Explorer crashing in Windows 11 when launching right after the system startup, running any .exe file, or choosing a file. It could be due to a corrupt cache, incorrect system configuration, and conflicting third-party software.

The pop-up box will read the following:

Method Difficulty Rating

Adjust The File Explorer Options

Recent research of mine shows that while working on the File Explorer issue, adjusting the program’s option solves the problem since improper settings can cause a glitch. Here’s how to change:

1. File Explorer Options: Jump to Control Panel > Search for File Explorer Options.
2. Expand File Explorer: Click on General tab > Expand Open File Explorer To > This PC > Apply > OK.

   

Modify The Registry Keys

Modifying the registry keys can help you resolve the File Explorer crash glitch. We tried this fix, which worked efficiently because it restored the configurations to the default state, removing any problematic settings. Here’s how to modify:

1. Open Run Menu: Open Run menu > Type regedit > OK > Yes.
2. Run: Run the following path:

   \HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\LocalSettings\Software\Microsoft\Windows\Shell

3. Delete: Expand Shell folder > Navigate to Bag and BagMRU folders > Right-click on each > Delete.

   

Remove A Windows 11 Update

Try removing the faulty Windows update, as it is sometimes the main reason behind different errors. As per our knowledge, faulty or corrupt Windows updates are known to cause various issues with the functionality.

Hence, we deleted the recent Windows update from our PC. After restarting, File Explorer ran fine. On the Microsoft forum, users get their problems solved using this method; here are the steps:

1. Open Command Prompt: Press the shortcut keys Ctrl+Shift+2 to access the Command Prompt.
2. Run: Run the command line:

   wmic qfe list brief /format:table

3. Look for Update number: From the list, look for the update you want to remove and note its HotFixID number.

   

4. Execute: Next, execute this command:

   wusa /uninstall /kb:HotFixID

Run SFC And DISM Scans

While working on the issue, we found that the reason behind the Windows File Explorer crash could be faulty system files. So, we ran the SFC (System File Checker) and DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) to scan and repair the system file corruption glitches. This particular solution worked for many users on Windows Eleven Forum.

These are the codes you need to run individually:

SFC/scannow
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Use Task Manager To Restart The File Explorer

Restarting the utility from the Task Manager is our tried and tested simple method that immediately solved the problem. Many users on SpiceWorks Community had their problems solved when they followed this procedure. You can employ the following steps to fix this:

1. Go to Task Manager: Press CTRL+ALT+DEL > Task Manager.
2. Restart Windows Explorer: Go to the Processes tab > Right-click Windows Explorer > Restart.

   

Final Thoughts

Windows 11’s File Explorer, a once reliable gateway to your digital world, has been causing headaches lately. Users are facing crashes and freezes, disrupting their work and causing frustration. People on forums share stories of lost work and the irritation of dealing with a suddenly troublesome tool. One example is given below: 

Nah what’s this 💀
And why is my file explorer crashing the whole Windows UI? pic.twitter.com/aDD5PWXi3c

— Marcus – Mutasim shill (@Marcus_Sk_Cz) November 6, 2022

The reasons for these issues vary, ranging from corrupted system files to problematic software updates. Regardless of the cause, the impact is clear – users are scrambling for solutions, seeking help in online communities.

We’ve created a guide to help you navigate through these problems. Whether it’s a simple restart or a thorough scan, we’ll provide you with the tools to tackle the crashing issues and regain control of your digital space.

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Uzair Shabir

[How-To Guides Expert]

Laiba, our tech guru at HI Digital, simplifies and crafts How-To Guides with a Google IT Support Certificate. Beyond tech, she captures the city’s aesthetics through her lens. Join her journey where tech meets creativity!

Get In Touch: Laiba@hidgt.com