Windows 10: File Explorer keeps freezing when I click a file. What do I do?

Yesterday, File Explorer was working perfectly. But today, it isn't. I can't manage my files, extract RAR files, view DOCX files, etc. It runs normally, I can navigate through folders, but it doesn't respond when I double click/right click on any file. I tried restarting explorer on task manager, restarting my PC, deleting some files, but nothing works. What to do?

:)

 

File Explorer Keeps Freezing with .docx FIles

Can't link the File Converter - I guess because it does not show up as a "program" - so it does not show up in the list as an option.

And of course, if I click on a .docx file in File Explorer, it freezes up. It used to not do that - that's the issue I want to fix in the first place, hence my post here.

Anyone know how to uninstall the File Converter when it does not show up in the programs list?

 

Feb 2019: File explorer keeps freezing after opening a file

Hi Casey,



Thank you for writing to Microsoft Community Forums.



I understand the inconvenience you are facing in accessing the files/folders. I also appreciate your effort in trying to fix the issue.



Provide us additional information to assist you better with this issue:

1. Are you getting any specific error code/error message while trying to open the file?
   
2. Are you aware of any recent changes made on the device?
   
3. Which version of Windows are running on your device?
   

Refer the article Which Windows operating system am I running for the information.



However, I would suggest you to follow the steps mentioned below.



Method 1

Restart Windows Explorer

1. Click on Start, type in “Task Manager”
   
2. Now go to Process tab. Click on Windows Explorer and
   Restart.
   
3. Then check the status of the issue.
   
4. If the issue still persist, try with the method 2.
   

Method 2

I suggest you to try the suggested steps from the article Fix File Explorer
if it won't open or start and check the status of the issue.





Hope it helps. Get back to us for further assistance on this issue. We will be happy to help you.







Muralidhar

Microsoft Community Moderator

 

FIle Explorer keeps freezing

Hi Doug. I'm Greg, an installation specialist, 10 year Windows MVP, and Volunteer Moderator. If you will work with me I will be here to help until the issue is resolved.

See fixes for File Explorer freezing and crashing:

https://www.thewindowsclub.com/windows-explorer...

https://ugetfix.com/ask/how-to-fix-file-explore...

https://www.easeus.com/resource/how-to-fix-wind...

https://www.easeus.com/resource/how-to-fix-wind...

https://thegeekpage.com/windows-10-file-explore...

https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=windows+10...

Go over this checklist to make sure the install is set up correctly, optimized for best performance, and any needed repairs get done: http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/wiki...

Start with Step 4 to turn off Startup freeloaders which can conflict and cause issues, then Step 7 to check for infection the most thorough way, then step 10 to check for damaged System Files, and also Step 16 to test a new Local Admin account. Then if necessary continue with the other steps to go over your install most thoroughly.

Update your drivers and BIOS/UEFI firmware from PC or motherboard maker's Support Downloads web page, using the full model number, Serial Number or Dell Service Tag on sticker. Compare the latest drivers available for download with the ones presently installed in Device Manager reached by right clicking the Start button. Make sure you have the latest BIOS or UEFI firmware, Chipset, Display (Video), Sound, USB3, Bluetooth, Network and all other drivers, or else download and install the latest now.

Updating drivers from the Device Manager or Windows Update is rarely enough. The most basic thing we need to learn to maintain a PC is keep the latest manufacturer's drivers installed from their Support Downloads web page.

If not I'd create the bootable media to wipe the drive and do the vastly superior Clean Install which should get you past all difficulties as it has hundreds of thousands of others who have followed the steps in this link and never come back to report another problem: http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/wiki...: http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/wiki...

I hope this helps. Feel free to ask back any questions and keep me posted. If you will wait to choose if I resolved your problem, I will keep working with you until it's resolved.

________________________________________________________

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