Resetting File Explorer in Windows 10 can help fix various issues like slow performance and unresponsive windows. To do this, you’ll clear and reset the settings of File Explorer, giving it a fresh start without affecting your files. Simply restart the File Explorer process, delete a few cache files, and your File Explorer should be back to running smoothly.
Step by Step Tutorial to Reset File Explorer Windows 10
Resetting File Explorer involves closing the app and clearing some settings to resolve performance issues. Follow these steps to reset File Explorer on your Windows 10 computer.
Step 1: Restart File Explorer
Open Task Manager and restart the File Explorer process.
To do this, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager. Find File Explorer under ‘Processes,’ right-click it, and select ‘Restart.’ This will refresh the application and might solve minor glitches.
Step 2: Clear File Explorer History
Go to Folder Options and clear the File Explorer history.
Open File Explorer, click ‘View’ on the toolbar, and select ‘Options.’ In the Folder Options window, under the ‘General’ tab, click the ‘Clear’ button next to ‘Clear File Explorer history.’ This clears the recently opened files and folders history.
Step 3: Reset Folder View Settings
Access Folder Options and reset the folder view settings.
In the Folder Options window, go to the ‘View’ tab. Click on ‘Reset Folders’ to restore all folders to their default view settings. This can help if folders are not displaying properly.
Step 4: Delete Explorer Cache
Remove the cache files to ensure a clean reset.
Navigate to C:Users[YourUsername]AppDataLocalMicrosoftWindowsExplorer and delete the contents. Ensure that File Explorer is closed while doing this to prevent issues.
Step 5: Restart Your Computer
Finally, restart your computer to apply all changes.
A simple restart can resolve any remaining issues by clearing the temporary files and finalizing the reset process.
After completing these steps, File Explorer should be working smoothly. If it still lags or behaves oddly, you might need to check for system updates or deeper system issues.
Tips for Resetting File Explorer Windows 10
- Always back up important data before making major changes to your system.
- Use Task Manager carefully; ending tasks might close unsaved work in other applications.
- Familiarize yourself with the Folder Options as they offer more customization for File Explorer.
- Be cautious when deleting cache files; only delete contents in specified folders.
- Regularly clearing File Explorer history can help prevent minor performance issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I reset File Explorer?
Resetting can resolve issues like slow loading times and unresponsive folders in File Explorer.
Will resetting File Explorer delete my files?
No, resetting File Explorer settings will not delete your personal files.
How often should I reset File Explorer?
Only reset it when you experience performance issues or unwanted behaviors.
Can I reset File Explorer without Task Manager?
Yes, you can close File Explorer from the taskbar and restart it from the Start menu.
Is this method safe for all Windows 10 versions?
Yes, these steps are safe and applicable for all current versions of Windows 10.
Summary
- Restart File Explorer via Task Manager.
- Clear File Explorer history in Folder Options.
- Reset folder view settings.
- Delete Explorer cache files.
- Restart your computer.
Conclusion
Resetting File Explorer in Windows 10 can be an essential trick in your troubleshooting toolkit. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can potentially solve a variety of performance issues that might be plaguing your system. Often, the simple act of resetting File Explorer can clear up bottlenecks and bring your computer back to its swift and snappy self.
While these steps are straightforward, they require attention to detail. Remember to perform actions like deleting cache files with caution. This ensures you’re only removing what’s necessary without disrupting other system operations. If problems persist even after a reset, it might be time to explore other avenues, such as checking for Windows updates, scanning for malware, or even performing a system restore.
Staying informed about your system’s functionality can prevent small issues from snowballing into larger ones. So next time File Explorer acts up, don’t panic—just give it a reset! And if you’re hungry for more tech tips and tricks, keep exploring. There’s always something new to learn in the ever-evolving world of technology.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.