Windows 10: File Explorer keeps hanging when it opens

File Explorer keeps hanging when launching or when resizing the window. Some times it will un-hang by itself after a while if left alone, otherwise it will crash. I had an issue where Windows applications such as Task Manager or Settings where taking too long to launch from Start context menu (fixed with a sfc /scannow), but I don't know whether both problems are related or not. The delay is still present if opening File Explorer from the taskbar icon, while it opens instantly if using the Win+E shortcut.

Windows 10 build is 20H2 19042.685.

:)

 

File explorer hangs

Sorry I got nothing more to suggest then.

File explorer hanging is an image issue. So if you can't do a repair upgrade or reset your PC then you can contact microsoft support directly to see if they have further steps but I am sure they are going to tell the same thing i did.

 

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' hangs up and won't open

Hi Charles,

File Explorer is like the backbone of the Windows navigation, without it, you can't go anywhere and this issue is likely caused by corrupted system files. We suggest running the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) and System File Checker (SFC)
tools to repair it. Follow these steps:

• Click the Start menu button, type command prompt, right-click on the result, and select
  Open as administrator.
• Type copy and paste the following command-lines (press Enter each line and wait for each process to complete):

Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth

Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth

Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

sfc /scannow

Should the issue persists, please visit this article for some pointers.

Let us know how it goes.