How do I repair explorer exe? This is a common question among Windows users who encounter issues with their file explorer. The file explorer, also known as Windows Explorer, is a crucial component of the Windows operating system that allows users to navigate, manage, and access files and folders on their computers. When explorer.exe encounters problems, it can lead to various issues, such as the file explorer not opening, slow performance, or crashes. In this article, we will discuss the steps to repair explorer.exe and restore its functionality on your Windows PC.
Before diving into the repair process, it is essential to understand the potential causes of explorer.exe errors. These issues can arise due to various reasons, including corrupted system files, malware infections, outdated drivers, or conflicts with other software. To address these problems, follow the steps outlined below:
Step 1: Run System File Checker (SFC)
System File Checker is a built-in Windows tool that scans and repairs corrupted system files. To run SFC, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + X and select “Command Prompt (Admin)” or “Windows PowerShell (Admin)” from the list.
- In the command prompt or PowerShell window, type “sfc /scannow” and press Enter.
- Wait for the process to complete. It may take some time, depending on the size of your system files.
- Restart your computer after the scan is finished.
Running SFC can help fix corrupted system files, which may be causing explorer.exe errors.
Step 2: Run DISM Tool
Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) is another built-in Windows tool that helps repair Windows image files and prepare your system for installation. To run DISM, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + X and select “Command Prompt (Admin)” or “Windows PowerShell (Admin)” from the list.
- In the command prompt or PowerShell window, type “dism /online /cleanup-image /checkhealth” and press Enter.
- Wait for the process to complete. It may take some time.
- Next, type “dism /online /cleanup-image /scanhealth” and press Enter.
- Finally, run “dism /online /cleanup-image /startrepair” to repair any issues found.
- Restart your computer after the repair process is complete.
DISM can help fix corrupted Windows image files, which may be causing explorer.exe errors.
Step 3: Check for Malware
Malware infections can also cause explorer.exe errors. To check for malware, follow these steps:
- Download and install a reputable antivirus or anti-malware software.
- Run a full system scan to detect and remove any malware.
- Restart your computer after the scan is complete.
Removing malware can help resolve explorer.exe errors caused by malicious software.
Step 4: Update Drivers
Outdated or incompatible drivers can cause issues with explorer.exe. To update your drivers, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + X and select “Device Manager” from the list.
- Expand the device categories and right-click on the device with outdated drivers.
- Select “Update driver” and choose “Search automatically for updated driver software.” Follow the on-screen instructions to update the driver.
- Repeat this process for all devices with outdated drivers.
Updating drivers can help resolve explorer.exe errors caused by driver-related issues.
Step 5: Perform a System Restore
If none of the above steps work, you can try performing a system restore to revert your computer to a previous state when explorer.exe was functioning correctly. To perform a system restore, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + R, type “sysdm.cpl” in the Run dialog, and press Enter.
- Go to the “System Restore” tab and click “System Restore.” Follow the on-screen instructions to select a restore point and restore your system.
Performing a system restore can help resolve explorer.exe errors caused by recent changes to your system.
In conclusion, repairing explorer.exe on your Windows PC involves several steps, including running system file checker, DISM tool, checking for malware, updating drivers, and performing a system restore. By following these steps, you should be able to resolve explorer.exe errors and restore the functionality of your file explorer. If the problem persists, consider seeking assistance from a professional technician.
