Restart File Explorer Windows 11 Shortcut. This can resolve temporary glitches. Learn how to navigate W
This can resolve temporary glitches. Learn how to navigate Windows using keyboard shortcuts. Feb 20, 2025 · Want to restart the Explorer process in Windows 11/10? You can use the Task Manager, BAT file, or Command Prompt to restart File Explorer. 9 hours ago · Microsoft's default settings for Windows 11 are filled with tiny annoyances, including unnecessary taskbar icons and unwanted apps. Speed up access to programs and files – make working in Windows 11 more convenient today! Discover how to set up Windows 11 Desktop Shortcuts Pro like a pro. Here is how to do this: 1. Explore a full list of taskbar, command prompt, and general Windows shortcuts. Make sure Windows 11 is fully updated via Settings to Windows Update then Check for updates. ↑ Placing the taskbar at the top 5 days ago · Restart Windows Explorer: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager, find Windows Explorer, right‑click and select Restart. This should restart Windows Explorer and bring back your desktop and taskbar. Windows Explorer, also known as explorer. Jan 12, 2026 · Assign a keyboard shortcut (optional): Rename the shortcut within the folder to include an ampersand (&) before the desired letter (e. The higher attention is given to the app quality and importance, the softer landing is built into it. May 23, 2023 · From the Quick Link Menu The Quick Link menu houses shortcuts to system tools, utilities, and built-in programs. Here's how to declutter your new setup and maximize your security settings. Step-by-step guide to customizing shortcuts, boosting workflow, and mastering advanced tips in the latest Windows 11 updates. Nov 15, 2025 · Enable hidden features in Windows 11 25H2 including the new Start menu, battery icon, admin protection, and AI actions in File Explorer. Boost your efficiency with custom shortcuts, keyboard tricks, and time-saving tips for a seamless desktop experience. Steps: Just restart File Explorer, check for system updates, or temporarily disable third-party programs that may interfere with the taskbar. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Keep in mind: To disable autostart apps on Windows 11. If you still encounter issues, you may need to perform additional troubleshooting steps. I found a shortcut for quickly killing and restarting `explorer. Windows shortcuts are a quick and convenient way to access your most-used files and applications, but the small arrow overlay on these icons can be aesthetically unappealing to some users. If the Start button is unresponsive, use the Ctrl + Shift + Esc keyboard shortcut to instantly open Task Manager. Jul 25, 2025 · Restarting File Explorer in Windows 11 is a quick way to resolve issues like unresponsive windows or missing desktop icons. Aug 19, 2024 · Learn how to seamlessly restart File Explorer in Windows 11 with our easy step-by-step guide. The Microsoft OneDrive icons in desktop notification areas, menu bars, Windows File Explorer and macOS Finder tell you the sync state of the file or folder. Type explorer. Dec 29, 2024 · If you find yourself needing to restart File Explorer frequently in Windows 11, setting up desktop and context menu shortcuts can save you time and effort. If it continues, clear File Explorer history and turn off thumbnails/preview panes, as these commonly cause freezes with large folders. 5 days ago · This method is free and easy to do, and it gives you quick control over startup programs without needing extra software. 1 day ago · The F5 key is commonly used in Windows 11 to refresh File Explorer, desktop icons, folders, and some applications. Jan 12, 2026 · Restart Windows Explorer: Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc), find Windows Explorer in the list, right-click it, and select Restart. Jan 31, 2022 · If you want to quickly restarter File Explorer, you can make a quick shortcut on the desktop or Context Menu in Windows 11. For your desktop icons, the arrows will disappear after you restart The “Enable Ribbon” setting allows you to return to the classic Windows 8. . Watch short videos about get help with file explorer in windows from people around the world. , &Registry Editor) and restart Explorer. Fortunately, there are several methods to restart File Explorer without needing to reboot your entire system. Solve problems with outdated websites quickly and safely! Method 1: Restarting File Explorer Malfunctions in the standard file manager can lead to problems with the quick access bar in Windows 11, and the first thing you need to do is restart it. Here's how to restart Windows Explorer without rebooting your computer. exe process is the user shell for Windows, and is used by such items as the desktop, File Explorer, Start menu, notification area, and taskbar. Feb 20, 2025 · If you need to restart your File Explorer in Windows 11/10, you can follow this procedure. I’ll also show you how to control fit, handle multi-monitor layouts, and avoid common pitfalls like stretching photos or losing your favorites after a sync. Restart Windows Explorer by opening Task Manager, selecting Windows Explorer, then Restart. This guide shows you exactly how to switch your interface language, add new languages, and troubleshoot common problems on Windows 10 and 11. 1 day ago · I’ll walk you through the most dependable approaches: Settings, File Explorer, context menus, and a few power-user shortcuts. Next, use the File Explorer Options to clear the cache and reset folder views. Learn step-by-step tips to organize files, multitask seamlessly, and supercharge your workflow with this powerful feature. It instantly minimizes all open windows so you can access files, folders, or widgets on the desktop. Whether you prefer Task Manager, CMD, PowerShell, or shortcuts, Windows gives you plenty of methods to reload Explorer instantly without restarting your PC. 5 days ago · You can change your Windows display language in just a few minutes through Settings > Time & Language > Language & region. Nov 14, 2025 · To troubleshoot issues with Windows 11 File Explorer connecting to OneDrive shortcuts, consider the following steps: Check OneDrive Sync Status: Ensure that OneDrive is running and syncing correctly. exe in the dialog box and press Enter. Oct 20, 2024 · In this article, we discussed various methods on how to restart File Explorer in Windows 11, including using Task Manager, Command Prompt, Windows PowerShell, creating a shortcut, and restarting File Explorer automatically. In Windows 11, the taskbar was redesigned, and the classic visible icon is no longer obvious. Start by opening Task Manager to restart the File Explorer process. How to restart Explorer in Windows We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. This Blocks the Copilot Packaged COM CLSID from appearing in the modern context menu and is widely used because it’s low‑risk and reversible by deleting the string. Right-click the Start menu or press the Windows key + X and select Settings. Sep 23, 2024 · Learn 10+ easy methods to Restart File Explorer on Windows 11 and quickly fix Start menu or taskbar issues with this step-by-step guide. If you suspect that the failure started as a result of a a major Windows update, the installation of a driver, or a specific program Using system restore points can be very helpful. Learn more. Oct 13, 2021 · In this comprehensive tutorial, we will show you five different methods to restart the File Explorer on your Windows 11 PC. Jul 21, 2021 · This tutorial will show you how to restart the explorer. 1. Restart Explorer: Open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc), find Windows Explorer, right-click, and select Restart to see the changes. Dec 14, 2025 · Hello Microsoft Community, when I boot or reboot my Windows 11 PC, my desktop icons are highlighting and opening, and the left and right mouse clicks are also working normally. exe process can restore normal functionality in seconds. exe` that is somewhat minor but immensely helpful for me so I thought I'd share. Copy the following command and paste it in the location box, and click Next. Jan 12, 2026 · Exiting full screen on Windows 11 is usually quick and simple using keyboard shortcuts like F11, Esc, or Alt + Enter. Re-register Shell Experience Host: If the issue persists, you can try re-registering the Shell Experience Host: Jan 11, 2026 · If you’re a Windows 7 user running Visual Studio Code (VS Code) version 1. In Windows 11, the key is deeply tied to system shortcuts and the Start menu, so even small configuration changes can disable it. To do this, you’ll need to restart File Explorer, clear cache, and reset folder views. 5 days ago · Restart Windows Explorer: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager, find Windows Explorer, right‑click and select Restart. Check Desktop Shortcuts: If you have a shortcut on your desktop that is set to open File Explorer, it may be causing this behavior. Jan 11, 2026 · Restart Windows Explorer: start explorer. Although most PC users know how to restart the File Explorer via the Task Manager, there is more than a way out there to restart the File Explorer in Windows 10/11. 3 days ago · Windows Insider Blog: Hello Windows Insiders, today we are releasing Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220. Dec 3, 2025 · The good news? In most cases, a simple restart of File Explorer is all you need to get everything back to normal. Jul 18, 2023 · There are times you need to restart File Explorer because it can freeze and additional problems, including a missing taskbar, volume control, and other issues can occur. Restarting the explorer. For example, the app itself can send its thread a request to stop. It includes a powerful search function and allows you to pin your favorite apps, folders, and websites for easy access. Method 5: Create a Desktop Shortcut to Restart File Explorer Right-click the empty space on your desktop and choose New -> Shortcut from the context menu that pops up. Why the Windows Key Stops Working in Windows 11 Before applying fixes, it helps to understand what usually breaks the Windows key. cc, you are not alone. In most cases, the Start button will return to its place after a few simple steps — and you won't need to reinstall Windows or contact support. 3. FAQ Will hiding the search box disable Windows Search? Learn how to create a shortcut in Windows 11 in just a couple of clicks! Simple step-by-step instructions for beginners: shortcuts on the desktop, in folders, and on the taskbar. Here's how to declutter your PC and maximize its security. Sep 10, 2025 · Without fail, everything pops back in every time. Microsoft's default settings for Windows 11 are filled with tiny annoyances, including unnecessary taskbar icons and unwanted apps. On Windows 7, 8, or 10, you can also right-click the taskbar while holding Ctrl+Shift and select "Exit Explorer" to restart Windows Explorer. Oct 1, 2023 · Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open the Task Manager, then right-click Windows Explorer and select "Restart" to restart Windows Explorer. exe process is to stop and start it to effectively refresh explorer. Changed a file or shortcut icon in Windows and now want the original back? In Windows 11 and Windows 10, icon changes ca Why Changing the Windows 11 Username Is Risky Windows links your user account to a unique security identifier and a fixed profile path under C:\Users. To open the Keyboard Shortcuts editor, select the File > Preferences > Keyboard Shortcuts menu, or use the Preferences: Open Keyboard Shortcuts command (⌘K ⌘S (Windows, Linux Ctrl+K Ctrl+S)) in the Command Palette. Locating the program's actual folder using File Explorer and running the . When Windows Explorer becomes unresponsive and freezes, it's often necessary to restart it. However, after a short while, suddenly my Desktop Icons stop highlighting… Dec 6, 2025 · If File Explorer keeps freezing or crashing in Windows 10/11, a quick fix is to restart it from Task Manager, which usually clears temporary glitches. The icon should now display correctly. Method 2: Using Third-Party Tools (Recommended for Ease) Tools like Win+X Menu Editor or StartAllBack simplify this process significantly. On the Processes in the section “Windows Processes” find The “Enable Ribbon” setting allows you to return to the classic Windows 8. Get your desktop back in order in a couple of minutes! To find commands or keyboard shortcuts, use the search box and enter a command or shortcut to filter the list. Proven methods: from system settings to the registry and command line. Mar 5, 2025 · Resetting File Explorer in Windows 11 can help resolve issues like slow performance or crashes. You can achieve this by using Task Manager, a tool that lets you manage applications and processes. Jan 12, 2026 · In Task Manager, click on File in the top left corner, then select Run new task. When apps become unresponsive, tools like Task Manager and Windows Explorer can help restore control. The explorer. There’s a shortcut to open the Windows Settings app in the Quick Link menu. g. Open Task Manager, find Windows Explorer in the list, and restart it. Some programs may still start automatically through other means, like Task Scheduler or registry settings. When F5 stops working, you may notice that folders don’t update, new files don’t appear, deleted files remain visible, or pages don’t refresh unless you reopen them manually. I write apps and know apps. exe process as needed in Windows 11. Here are four different ways to restart it. 6 days ago · Why the Show Desktop Icon Matters in Windows 11 For power users and everyday professionals alike, the Show Desktop feature is a productivity shortcut. This refreshes the desktop shell and often forces a wallpaper refresh. Discover how to setup Windows 11 keyboard shortcuts pro-style for ultimate productivity. exe Reopen VSCode. Currently, it hangs if Windows receives some keys from USB HID page 6. Is this actually the result of File Explorer, or could it be a more vague problem like a program stalling that requires file explorer? This issue also happens while I'm gaming, but in the inverse. “Explorer”: Launch the built-in tool Task Manager — to do this, you can use the system search bar or the key combination Ctrl + Shift + Esc. Just: Right-click the Start button and select Task Manager. Mar 21, 2025 · After making registry changes or to fix errors, you might need to restart the Windows UI. This method only affects apps with shortcuts in the Startup folder. This handy shortcut allows you to quickly open a folder in VS Code, streamlining your workflow. And Windows 11 provides multiple ways to do it, whether Explorer is partially working or completely frozen. 1, you may have encountered a frustrating issue: the "Open with Code" option is missing from the right-click context menu when you right-click a folder. Find Windows Explorer in the list, right-click it, and select Restart. Nov 20, 2025 · If your File Explorer, taskbar, or Start menu starts to have issues, it may be best to try a simple restart of Windows Explorer to see if this can quickly fix these sorts of problems with your Windows 11 computer. Why Change Your Windows Display Language? Found an empty desktop in Windows 11? Icons and shortcuts are missing – don't panic! Learn how to quickly and easily restore missing desktop icons with step-by-step instructions for beginners and advanced users. This should refresh the interface without rebooting your entire system. Enable the “Enable the Ribbon Ul in File Explorer” tweak in Winaero Tweaker and click “Restart Explorer” to restart the system shell. 7653 (KB5074157) to the Beta Channel. Provides troubleshooting options for problems that affect the search results for the Windows Search feature in Windows 11 and Windows 10. May 27, 2022 · After a while, Windows Explorer will restart automatically. Nov 15, 2025 · The Windows Explorer process controls the desktop interface and context menu. Jan 12, 2026 · Pocket‑lint’s short, practical checklist for speeding up Windows 11’s File Explorer is the kind of hands‑on guidance that saves time and frustration: clear Explorer caches, turn off Quick Access, tame indexing, apply a targeted Registry tweak to stop folder sniffing, and—if you still need 6 days ago · Restart File Explorer (Task Manager → Windows Explorer → Restart) or reboot. To open a new desktop shortcut in Windows 11, create it from New > Shortcut on the desktop, then double-click its icon to launch the target. Oct 14, 2025 · Depending on how the applications are installed and registered in Windows, there are different ways to configure their startup behavior: Any applications that are registered in Windows with a startup task can be configured from Settings or from Task Manager Other applications can be configured using File Explorer Expand each section to learn more. Aug 12, 2024 · When working diligently on your files and folders in Windows 11, a sudden freeze in File Explorer can severely disrupt your productivity. Luckily, there are ways to do this without turning your PC off. Jan 12, 2026 · We are going to reset File Explorer and context menu with a batch script to restart File Explorer, and delete the exact registry keys that hold this cached UI/state data. Changes in Beta Channel builds and updates are documented in two buckets: new features, improvements, and fixes that are being gradually rolled out If this occurs, restart the "Windows Explorer" process, and open the search panel again. Apr 21, 2024 · To make Windows File Explorer launch folder windows in a separate process, go to File Explorer by clicking the icon in the taskbar or using a Windows Key + E keyboard shortcut. When you hover your mouse over the Search icon on the taskbar, recent searches may not be displayed. May 9, 2024 · Is File Explorer acting up on your Windows 11 PC? Learn how to quickly restart it with our easy step-by-step guide. Jun 7, 2024 · Facing bugs and glitches in the Windows user interface? Here's how you can restart Windows File Explorer, and get rid of issues! Dec 17, 2025 · Hi everyone, After Windows 11 updates and system restart, I noticed that my desktop has become completely empty – all my icons, shortcuts, and documents and files are gone. Feb 2, 2024 · Keyboard shortcuts are one of the most underutilized features of any operating system and Windows 11 has many new ones. Feb 3, 2025 · I care about restart of Windows Explorer made as gracefully as possible. Verify the shortcut points to the correct VSCode files. Here are three ways to restart File Explorer. Check Shortcut Properties A misconfigured taskbar shortcut can cause the icon to fail. Following are the five ways to restart the File Explorer (Windows Explorer) in Windows 10/11. Restarting it may help refresh the system tray icons and bring back the NVIDIA Control Panel. I often have issues with explorer after my computer wakes from sleep, such as the resolution shrinking and the mouse and application sizes misaligning. Discover how to use Windows 11 File Explorer tabs efficiently. ↑ Placing the taskbar at the top Nov 19, 2025 · Fix Start Menu and File Explorer problems in Windows 11 version 25H2 with this easy step-by-step guide and learn the quickest solutions We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Nov 19, 2025 · Fix Start Menu and File Explorer problems in Windows 11 version 25H2 with this easy step-by-step guide and learn the quickest solutions Apr 30, 2025 · Windows Explorer renders the file manager, desktop icons, taskbar, task switcher, and a few other elements. The Windows Start menu is a key feature of the operating system, providing quick access to your apps, settings, and files. Download and run the editor. Jul 21, 2021 · This post will show you how to Restart File Explorer in Windows 11 in order to apply some setting, tweak, or fix an issue with the Windows shell. Learn how to install Internet Explorer 11 in Windows 10: step-by-step instructions, tips for enabling and configuring the browser, compatibility and alternatives. Boost performance and resolve issues in minutes! Oct 29, 2022 · Restart the Windows Explorer Process via Task Manager The most straightforward way to restart Windows Explorer is to use the Task Manager app in Windows 11 and 10. Nov 14, 2025 · If File Explorer freezes, becomes sluggish, or stops responding, restarting it is the fastest way to get Windows 11 back to normal. 1 and 10 file explorer with a ribbon menu and without the modern Mica effect in Windows 11. 6 days ago · Restarting File Explorer in Windows 11 is a simple yet powerful way to fix common system glitches without needing a full reboot. If you don't see any desktop notification or menu bar icons, OneDrive may be hidden, not installed or not running. 1 day ago · Restart Windows Explorer: Sometimes, simply restarting Windows Explorer can resolve display issues: Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc. Reports show it can appear even when you are Dec 27, 2024 · It's annoying while trying to access files and folders, but File Explorer freezes up on Windows 11. exe. Avoid registry edits unless absolutely necessary and only after creating a system restore point. You may use the Task Manager, a desktop shortcut, or the Context Menu. Whether your taskbar has frozen, desktop icons aren’t responding, or File Explorer windows are lagging, a quick restart of the explorer. Sep 8, 2022 · More often than not, restarting the Windows File Explorer resolves File Explorer issues. This process can easily be done by opening Task Manager on your computer. exe but not to confuse with Internet Explorer, is a default process in Windows 11 responsible for the user interface and shell, file manager, taskbar, Start 11 hours ago · Windows has long tucked useful recovery shortcuts behind everyday menus — one of the most consequential is the Shift + Restart trick that sends a machine straight into Advanced Startup (WinRE), and a related, lesser‑known emergency reboot hidden behind Ctrl+Alt+Del that forces an immediate restart. exe file directly helps rule out a problem with the shortcut. Simply renaming the folder can cause broken shortcuts, failed logins, or apps that no longer start. 4 days ago · If you keep seeing a blank white window or a browser window that opens to Files-storage.