Windows 10: explorer.exe not responding, spinning cursor on desktop - HELP!

Windows 10 boots up and loads the desktop, but gets stuck with a spinning cursor not an arrow, desktop icons are slow to load, and icons never appear on the taskbar. More importantly, I cannot click on icons nor use the search bar.This used to occur periodically, but after too many minutes everything would start working.But not today, and it still happens in Safe Mode and with Clean Boot.I've tried system restore point, deleting iconcache, killing and restarting explorer, etc.I am not so knowledgeable, but trying things I am able to find onlineI can pull up Task Manager that's how I know

:)

 

Spinning cursor on task bar for work desktop

Hello TaraKelley,

For us to better assist you, kindly provide the following information:

• Confirm which build is currently installed on your device. To check, follow the steps below:

• Press Windows key + R, then type in winver.
• Click OK.

• Were there any recent changes made prior to this issue?
• What troubleshooting steps have you done so far?

Meanwhile, we suggest that you download and run the Start menu troubleshooter on this
link. This troubleshooter automatically diagnose and repair common problem with Start menu.

We look forward to your response.

Regards.

 

Cursor spinning

Hi Shashank,

For us to isolate your concern with your cursor spinning issue, we would like to know the following:

• Were there any updates made on your computer prior to this concern?
• When did the issue first begin?
• Is this the first time you experienced the issue?
• To make sure we have not missed on anything, what troubleshooting steps have you done so far?

We look forward to your response.

 

Spinning cursor

Hi triseilucifer,

For us to be able to assess the issue, kindly provide information and answers to these questions below:

1. Current version of your Windows 10 operating system
2. Did you used to have any existing issues with your PC prior to restoring? Also, did you mean
   Restore Point or Reset PC?
3. Full PC specification
4. What are the troubleshooting steps you have performed so far?
5. Screenshot of the desktop that shows the spinning circle

In the mean time, I would suggest performing Clean Boot and see if the issue persists. Get back to us with the outcome by replying to this thread so I will be notified.

All the best.