File Explorer crashes can be quite disruptive, but there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve this issue:
1. Corrupted System Files:
Cause: Corrupted system files can cause File Explorer to crash.
Solution: Run the System File Checker tool by opening Command Prompt as an administrator and running:
sh
sfc /scannow
2. Outdated or Corrupted Drivers:
Cause: Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause File Explorer to crash.
Solution: Update your graphics driver by going to Device Manager, finding your graphics card under Display adapters, right-clicking it, and selecting Update driver.
3. Third-Party Shell Extensions:
Cause: Third-party shell extensions can cause File Explorer to crash.
Solution: Use a tool like ShellExView to disable third-party shell extensions and identify the culprit.
4. Clear File Explorer History:
Cause: Accumulated files in File Explorer's history can cause crashes.
Solution: Clear File Explorer history by going to Control Panel > Folder Options > General and clicking Clear next to Clear File Explorer history.
5. Launch Folder Windows in a Separate Process:
Cause: Launching folder windows in the same process can cause crashes.
Solution: Go to Control Panel > Folder Options > View and check Launch folder windows in a separate process.
6. Disable Thumbnails:
Cause: Displaying thumbnails can cause File Explorer to crash.
Solution: Go to Control Panel > Folder Options > View and select Always show icons, never thumbnails.
7. Check for Software Conflicts:
Cause: Conflicting software can cause File Explorer to crash.
Solution: Boot into Safe Mode and check for any recently installed software that might be causing the issue.
8. Reset File Explorer:
Cause: Resetting File Explorer can resolve persistent issues.
Solution: Open PowerShell as an administrator and run:
sh
dism /online /disable-feature /featurename:SearchEngine-Client-Package
dism /online /enable-feature /featurename:SearchEngine-Client-Package
By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve most issues with File Explorer crashes