How to Repair File Explorer in Windows 10
File Explorer is a crucial component of the Windows 10 operating system, allowing users to navigate, manage, and organize their files and folders. However, sometimes File Explorer may encounter issues, causing it to crash, freeze, or display errors. In such cases, repairing File Explorer can help restore its functionality. This article will guide you through the steps to repair File Explorer in Windows 10.
1. Use the System File Checker (SFC)
The System File Checker is a built-in Windows tool that scans and repairs corrupted system files. To use this tool, follow these steps:
a. Press the Windows key + X and select “Command Prompt (Admin)” or “Windows PowerShell (Admin)” from the list.
b. In the command prompt or PowerShell window, type “sfc /scannow” and press Enter.
c. The tool will start scanning your system files. This process may take some time, so please be patient.
d. Once the scan is complete, restart your computer to apply the repairs.
2. Run the DISM Tool
The Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool is another built-in Windows tool that can help repair system files. To use this tool, follow these steps:
a. Press the Windows key + X and select “Command Prompt (Admin)” or “Windows PowerShell (Admin)” from the list.
b. In the command prompt or PowerShell window, type “dism /online /cleanup-image /checkhealth” and press Enter.
c. The tool will check for corruption in the Windows image. If any issues are found, it will attempt to repair them.
d. After the repair process is complete, restart your computer.
3. Reset File Explorer
If the above methods do not resolve the issue, you can try resetting File Explorer to its default settings. To do this, follow these steps:
a. Press the Windows key + X and select “Control Panel” from the list.
b. In the Control Panel, click on “Programs” and then “Programs and Features.”
c. In the Programs and Features window, click on “Turn Windows features on or off” on the left side.
d. In the Windows Features dialog box, scroll down and expand “File Explorer Options.”
e. Uncheck the “Use the File Explorer thumbnail view” and “Use the File Explorer to open folders” options.
f. Click “OK” to save the changes and restart your computer.
4. Uninstall and Reinstall File Explorer
If none of the previous methods work, you can try uninstalling and reinstalling File Explorer. To do this, follow these steps:
a. Press the Windows key + X and select “Windows PowerShell (Admin)” from the list.
b. In the PowerShell window, type “Get-AppxPackage -Name Microsoft.Windows.FileExplorer | Remove-AppxPackage” and press Enter.
c. Restart your computer.
d. Once your computer restarts, File Explorer will be automatically reinstalled.
By following these steps, you should be able to repair File Explorer in Windows 10 and restore its functionality. If the issue persists, consider seeking assistance from a professional or contacting Microsoft support.
