Windows 10: File Explorer lagging when single clicking on folders and files even in safe mode

I'm experiencing about a 2-second lag when I single-left-click on files and folders in the right pane in file explorer. During the lag, the mouse pointer switches between an arrow and spinning circle twice every single time.This occurs in SAFE MODE as well as on a normal boot. It occurs on every single click even if I've clicked on the file or folder before.Other notes:1. When clicking into folder, the pointer switches to the spinning circle 3 times.2. When I use the keyboard to navigate up and down a folder list, the lag is still present.3. Clicking in the left pane where drives are listed or

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Cannot open folders in File Explorer outside of Safe Mode

Hi!

Since yesterday, I have been unable to open folders through the File Explorer on my Windows 11 installation. Double-clicking or right-clicking folders causes the File Explorer window to freeze (same behavior for the Windows desktop). Using other means to navigate folders (such as command prompt or Visual Studio Code) functions normally; opening files or running applications works normally as well.

What I've tried so far:

1. Run SFC Scan & DISM -> some errors were found, but could be fixed; scans turn up clean now.
   
2. Clear the File Explorer history -> no improvement.
   
3. Disable non-Microsoft shell extensions -> I used the tool Shell Extension Manager to disable all third-party extensions, then restarted File Explorer. No improvement.
   
4. Reboot in safe mode -> The File Explorer behaves normally when in safe mode.
   

I was happy to see that behavior is normal when in safe mode, but that's not very practical to work with. I appreciate any help in advance!

 

File Explorer Scroll Lag

Hello, I just did this and still the lagging continues. I want to point out that the lag occurs only when I scroll with the mouse, when I click and scroll the lag does not occur.

 

Mouse stuck in single click mode

Even though my folder explorer option is set to double click mode a single click opens any file so selection has become a burden.

I am force to hold the control key down when selecting a folder or file otherwise the folder pops open or the file opens in its default program.

When I go to the file explorer wind the single click option is locked out and the double click for file opening is "permanently selected" but a single click acts as a double click.

I have spent hours trying everyone solution but none seem to solve the problem. A different mouse (actually three different mice) makes no difference.

This has been happening for nearly a month and finally I have given up in trying everything everyone on the internet has suggested.

Help