Fix: File Explorer not working on Windows 11

Discover effective solutions to fix File Explorer not working on Windows 11 and regain control over your files.

Raaina B.
Windows Power User
2 min read
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Are you facing issues with File Explorer on your Windows 11 system? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! File Explorer is a vital tool for navigating and managing files and folders, so it can be frustrating when it stops working properly. In this guide, we’ll explore some effective solutions to help you fix File Explorer on your Windows 11 device. Get ready to regain control over your files and streamline your file management experience. Let’s dive in!

Fix: File Explorer not working on Windows 11

Fix 1: Restart your system

1. Click on the Windows icon in Taskbar.

2. Then click on the power button and choose Restart.

Fix: File Explorer not working on Windows 11

Fix 2: Use the System File Checker

1. Open the Command prompt as an administrator.

Fix: File Explorer not working on Windows 11

2. Type this command and press Enter.

sfc /scannow

Fix: File Explorer not working on Windows 11

Fix 3: Run system maintenance

1. Open Control Panel.

2. Click on Category and choose “small icons”.

Fix: File Explorer not working on Windows 11

3. Click on “Troubleshooting” > “Run maintenance tasks”.

Fix: File Explorer not working on Windows 11

4. It will take some time for System Maintenance to clean the unused files.

Fix: File Explorer not working on Windows 11

Fix 4: Check for updates

1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I keys.

2. Click “Windows Update” > “Check for updates”.

Fix: File Explorer not working on Windows 11

3. Check if the issue has been resolved.

Fix 5: Restart the File Explorer

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc keys to open Task Manager.

2. Right-click on Windows Explorer and select Restart from the pop-up menu.

Fix: File Explorer not working on Windows 11

Fix 6: Adjust File Explorer options

1. Search File Explorer options in the Search bar and open it.

Fix: File Explorer not working on Windows 11

2. In the “Open File Explorer to” section, choose This PC. Then click Clear > OK.

Fix: File Explorer not working on Windows 11

Fix 7: Scan for Malware

1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I keys.

2. Click on “Privacy & security” > then click “Windows Security”.

Fix: File Explorer not working on Windows 11

3. Click on “Quick scan”.

Fix: File Explorer not working on Windows 11

Fix 8: Uninstall an update

1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I keys.

2. Click on “Windows Update” > then click “Update history”.

Fix: File Explorer not working on Windows 11

3. Click on “Uninstall updates”.

Fix: File Explorer not working on Windows 11

4. Click “Uninstall”. Check if the issue has been resolved.

Fix: File Explorer not working on Windows 11

That’s it!

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Article by

Raaina B.
Windows Power User

Raaina is a passionate Windows user with over 5 years of experience. Her insatiable curiosity drives her to explore and embrace every new feature and update that comes her way. With a sharp eye for detail and unmatched expertise in the world of Windows, Raaina is your go-to person for tips and insights.

1 Comment
Kartik Popatlal Mehta

Tried windows update: Ran into “Updates failed”

Windows 11, version 23H2 (repair version)
This update can’t be downloaded and installed because it’s not yet ready for your device.

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