Windows Explorer crashes on boot/open

2 min read 27-10-2024

the ifix

If you've ever encountered a situation where Windows Explorer crashes upon startup or when you try to open it, you're not alone. This issue can be frustrating, but fortunately, there are several approaches to diagnose and fix it. Below, we'll discuss the problem, potential causes, and solutions.

The Problem Scenario

Users often experience Windows Explorer crashing during boot-up or upon opening. This can prevent access to files and folders, disrupting workflow. The original problem can be summarized as follows:

Original Problem: "Windows Explorer crashes on boot/open."

Possible Causes

Windows Explorer crashing can arise from various sources, including:

Corrupted System Files: Essential files may become corrupted, leading to instability.
Malware Infection: Certain malware types can interfere with system processes, including Windows Explorer.
Third-Party Software Conflicts: Some programs may conflict with Explorer, causing it to crash.
Faulty Updates: Occasionally, a Windows update may introduce bugs that destabilize Explorer.
Corrupted User Profile: If your user profile is damaged, Windows Explorer may fail to load properly.

Solutions and Troubleshooting Steps

Here are some practical solutions to help resolve the Windows Explorer crashes:

1. Boot in Safe Mode

Booting into Safe Mode can help you troubleshoot issues without the interference of third-party applications. Follow these steps:

Restart your computer.
As your computer boots, press F8 repeatedly until the Advanced Boot Options menu appears.
Select "Safe Mode" and hit Enter.
Once in Safe Mode, check if Windows Explorer still crashes.

If it works fine in Safe Mode, you may need to troubleshoot third-party software or drivers.

2. Run System File Checker (SFC)

To fix any corrupted system files, you can use the built-in System File Checker tool:

Open Command Prompt as an administrator. You can do this by searching for "cmd" in the Start menu, right-clicking it, and selecting "Run as administrator."
Type the following command and hit Enter:
```
sfc /scannow
```
This process may take some time. Once completed, restart your computer and check if the issue is resolved.

3. Check for Malware

Running a full system scan using Windows Defender or any trusted antivirus can help identify and remove malware:

Open Windows Security from the Start menu.
Go to "Virus & Threat Protection."
Click on "Quick Scan" or "Scan Options" for a full scan.

4. Disable Startup Programs

Disabling unnecessary startup programs can also help:

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
Navigate to the "Startup" tab.
Disable applications that you don't need to run at startup.

5. Create a New User Profile

If your user profile is the issue, creating a new profile can solve the problem:

Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users.
Click on "Add someone else to this PC" and follow the prompts to create a new user account.

Conclusion

If Windows Explorer crashes on boot or when opened, it can be an annoying experience. However, by following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, you should be able to identify and rectify the issue. Always remember to keep your system updated and regularly run malware scans to avoid similar problems in the future.

Additional Resources

If you continue to have issues, consider reaching out to Microsoft Support for further assistance.