Where is file explorer.exe? This is a common question among Windows users who are unable to locate the File Explorer application on their computers. File Explorer is a crucial component of the Windows operating system, providing users with a graphical user interface to navigate through files, folders, and drives. However, there may be instances where the File Explorer.exe file goes missing or becomes inaccessible. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this issue and provide solutions to help you find and restore the File Explorer.exe file on your Windows PC.
File Explorer.exe is a system file that is typically located in the C:\Windows\System32 folder. It is responsible for launching the File Explorer application, which allows users to manage their files and folders. When you cannot find the File Explorer.exe file, it could be due to various reasons, such as accidental deletion, system corruption, or malware infections.
One of the first steps to take when you cannot find the File Explorer.exe file is to check the Recycle Bin. Sometimes, the file may have been deleted and moved to the Recycle Bin without your knowledge. To do this, simply open the Recycle Bin, search for “explorer.exe” or “file explorer.exe,” and restore the file if found.
If the File Explorer.exe file is not in the Recycle Bin, you can try to run the System File Checker (SFC) tool to scan for and repair corrupted system files. To do this, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + X on your keyboard and select “Command Prompt (Admin)” or “Windows PowerShell (Admin)” from the menu.
- In the command prompt or PowerShell window, type “sfc /scannow” and press Enter.
- Wait for the process to complete. The SFC tool will scan your system files and attempt to repair any corrupted files, including File Explorer.exe.
- Restart your computer to apply the changes.
Another method to restore the File Explorer.exe file is to use the System Restore feature. This allows you to revert your computer’s system settings to a previous point in time when the File Explorer.exe file was present. To use System Restore, follow these steps:
- Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type “rstrui.exe” and press Enter.
- In the System Restore window, click “Next” and select a restore point before the issue occurred.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the System Restore process.
In some cases, the File Explorer.exe file may be hidden or not visible in the file explorer. To make hidden files and folders visible, follow these steps:
- Open File Explorer and click on the “View” tab at the top of the window.
- Check the “Hidden items” box in the “Show/hide” section.
- Hidden files and folders will now be visible in the file explorer.
Lastly, if you have tried all the above methods and still cannot find the File Explorer.exe file, it is possible that your Windows installation is corrupted. In this case, you may need to perform a system repair or reinstall Windows to restore the File Explorer.exe file.
In conclusion, if you are wondering where is file explorer.exe, there are several methods to find and restore the File Explorer.exe file on your Windows PC. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to resolve the issue and regain access to the File Explorer application.