How to Restart Windows Explorer.exe
If you’re experiencing issues with your Windows operating system, one of the common culprits is the Windows Explorer.exe process. This process is responsible for managing the graphical user interface and file management functions on your computer. Sometimes, restarting Windows Explorer.exe can resolve various problems, such as a frozen desktop, unresponsive file explorer, or other performance-related issues. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to restart Windows Explorer.exe on your Windows computer.
Method 1: Restart Windows Explorer.exe through Task Manager
1. Press the “Ctrl + Shift + Esc” keys simultaneously to open the Task Manager.
2. In the Task Manager window, click on the “Processes” tab.
3. Scroll through the list of processes and find “Windows Explorer.exe.”
4. Right-click on “Windows Explorer.exe” and select “End Task.”
5. A dialog box will appear, asking for confirmation. Click “End Task” again to confirm.
6. After ending the task, press “File” in the upper-left corner of the Task Manager and select “New Task (Run…).”
7. Type “explorer.exe” in the “Create new task” window and click “OK.”
8. Windows Explorer.exe will restart, and you should see your desktop and file explorer functioning normally.
Method 2: Restart Windows Explorer.exe through Command Prompt
1. Press “Win + R” to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “cmd” in the Run dialog box and press “Enter” to open Command Prompt.
3. In the Command Prompt window, type “taskkill /IM explorer.exe /F” and press “Enter.”
4. This command will force-terminate the Windows Explorer.exe process.
5. Close the Command Prompt window.
6. Press “Win + R” again, type “explorer.exe” in the Run dialog box, and press “Enter.”
7. Windows Explorer.exe will restart, and your desktop and file explorer should be working correctly.
Method 3: Restart Windows Explorer.exe through System Configuration
1. Press “Win + R” to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “msconfig” in the Run dialog box and press “Enter.”
3. In the System Configuration window, go to the “Services” tab.
4. Check the box next to “Hide all Microsoft services” to uncheck all the services.
5. Click “Disable all” to disable all the services.
6. Click “OK” and then “Restart” to restart your computer.
7. After the computer restarts, Windows Explorer.exe will be restarted, and your desktop and file explorer should be functioning normally.
By following these methods, you can restart Windows Explorer.exe on your Windows computer and potentially resolve various issues. If the problem persists, consider seeking further assistance from a professional or searching for specific solutions related to your issue.
