Windows 10: File Explorer will get preview errors with certain kinds of files

I have Windows 11 with both HD and SSD. As my C: disk was running out of space, I was moving around some files to D: disk and creating corresponding soft links, mainly AppData. Now, whenever I attempt to preview .pdf and .docx files on File Explorer, I get error messages. The PDF files are set with Acrobat as a standard and the error that appears on the preview area is something along "This file can't be previewed because of an error with PDF Preview Handler". The DOCX files are set with MS Word and the message is "This file can't be previewed because of an error with Microsoft Word Preview".I

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"This file can't be previewed" problem in explorer

Hi Deborah,

For us to provide an accurate resolution, kindly elaborate the issue by answering the questions listed below:

• Since when have you been experiencing this issue?
• Were there any changes on your PC before this happened like software or updates installed?

For initial troubleshooting, we suggest that you follow the steps listed below:

• Open File Explorer.
• Access this link
  
  C:\Users\USERNAME\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\Explorer
• Delete all the files.
• After deleting the files kindly try and see if there's a thumbnail preview of your files.

We're looking forward to your response.

 

Preview in File Explorer with Edge

Hello, Babak38.

To do this follow the steps below.

• Press WINDOWS + i on your keyboard
  
• Click on "APPS" then click on Default apps
  
• Click on Microsoft Edge browser
  
• Then in the "PDF" option you choose which default browser you want to open files in PDF format.
  

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preview/details pane in explorer

Hi,

Setting the Preview pane to show or hide in File Explorer will apply to all folders. If you wish to hide the Preview pane in File Explorer, we suggest that you follow the steps below:

• Open File Explorer.
• Tap on View tab.
• Click Preview Pane to view/hide it.

We would appreciate it if you could get back to us and provide us your feedback.