How to Bring Windows Explorer Back
In the fast-paced world of technology, it’s not uncommon for users to accidentally close or lose access to essential applications like Windows Explorer. Windows Explorer is a crucial component of the Windows operating system, providing users with a way to navigate through files, folders, and drives. If you’ve found yourself in a situation where Windows Explorer is missing, don’t worry; this article will guide you through the steps to bring it back to your desktop.
Firstly, it’s important to note that Windows Explorer is also known as File Explorer in newer versions of Windows. The process to restore it remains largely the same across different versions of the operating system. Here’s how to bring Windows Explorer back:
1. Restart Your Computer: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve the issue. Close all open applications and restart your computer. Once it boots up, check if Windows Explorer is back.
2. Press Windows Key + E: If the restart didn’t work, try pressing the Windows key and the letter ‘E’ simultaneously. This keyboard shortcut typically opens Windows Explorer, even if the icon is missing from the taskbar or Start menu.
3. Use Task Manager: If the above methods don’t work, open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc. In the Processes tab, find “Windows Explorer” in the list. Right-click on it and select “End Task.” Then, click on “File” at the top left corner, choose “New Task (Run…),” and type “explorer.exe” in the dialogue box. Click “OK” to launch Windows Explorer.
4. Run the System File Checker: This tool scans for and fixes corrupted system files. To run the System File Checker, press Windows key + X and select “Windows PowerShell (Admin)” or “Command Prompt (Admin).” In the command prompt or PowerShell window, type “sfc /scannow” and press Enter. The process may take some time to complete. Once it’s finished, restart your computer and check if Windows Explorer is back.
5. Check for Updates: Outdated drivers or software can sometimes cause issues with Windows Explorer. Ensure that your Windows operating system is up to date by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. If there are any updates available, install them and restart your computer.
6. Perform a System Restore: If none of the above methods work, you can try performing a system restore to a point before Windows Explorer stopped working. To do this, press Windows key + R, type “sysdm.cpl” in the Run dialogue box, and press Enter. In the System Properties window, go to the System Protection tab, click “System Restore,” and follow the on-screen instructions.
By following these steps, you should be able to bring Windows Explorer back to your desktop. Remember to regularly back up your important files to prevent data loss in case of similar issues in the future.
