Windows 10: How can I fix the "This file can't be previewed because of an error in the PDF Preview...

I am unable to preview PDFs filed in Explorer. The window states "This file can't be previewed because of an error in the PDF Preview Handler". I have tried many suggestions including uninstalling and reinstalling Adobe Acrobat Reader and unchecking the "Enable Protected Mode at startup" box, and the "Enable Enhanced Security" box, and nothing works. I am using Windows 11 Pro as my OS.

:)

 

How to fix PDF Preview in File Explorer?

I need help to Preview PDFs with File Explorer but below steps are not working.

[Fix] PDF Thumbnail and Preview Not Showing in Explorer

Preliminary step – Enable thumbnails and preview handlers in Explorer

1. Open Folder Options
   
2. Enable “Show preview handlers in preview pane”
   
3. Uncheck “Always show icons, never thumbnails
   

If thumbnail and preview functionality is still missing for PDF file types, proceed to the next step.

Microsoft PowerToys is not acceptable alternative because it is not approved; my guess is PowerToys utility could wreak havoc within the Windows operating system; as such, novice users have often been encouraged to use caution.





Operating System: 19041.1.amd64fre.vb_release.191206-1406 10.0.0.0.2.4

Explorer, 10.0.19041.2311 (WinBuild.160101.0800)

Kind Regards

Sunny

 

Previewing files

Hello DE906,

To better assist you with your concern, I'd like to know the following:

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

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

• Were there any recent changes made prior to this issue?
• What is the PDF viewer that you're using?

Meanwhile, if you're using Adobe Acrobat; I'd recommend performing the steps in this
article
to enable thumbnail preview of PDF's in Windows Explorer.

Also, you can check this article
for the .docx issue.

Looking forward to your response.

Regards.

 

Delete and Cut Files with Preview Pane Open

Hi,

Thank you for posting your query in Microsoft Community.

I understand your concern and will assist you to resolve this issue.

• Have you tried to delete the pdf file in preview panel?
• What exactly happens when try to delete the pdf file?

I suggest you to follow the steps below and check if it helps.

• 
  Open File Explorer.
  
• 
  Select View and click on preview panel.
  
• 
  Select the pdf file.
  
• 
  At the right corner you will be able to see preview panel.
  
• 
  You can right click on it and delete the files.
  

Hope this helps. If the issue remains unresolved, please get back to us and we would be happy to help.