Troubleshooting Guide: Resolving ‘Windows Explorer Has Stopped Working’ Error

Have you ever encountered a frustrating error message that says Windows Explorer has stopped working? This error can happen when you are using your computer, browsing files, or performing any other task. It can happen due to various reasons such as a corrupted file, a faulty program, or a malware infection. Whatever the cause may be, this error can be annoying and can disrupt your work. The good news is that there are some simple solutions you can try to fix this issue. In this article, we will discuss some troubleshooting tips to help you resolve the Windows Explorer has stopped working error and get your computer back to working smoothly.

Fixing the Windows Explorer Has Stopped Working error can be a daunting task for many users. This error can occur due to various reasons, such as a corrupted system file, a virus or malware infection, outdated drivers, or conflicting software. However, with the right approach, it’s possible to fix this issue and get back to using your computer without any problems. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the troubleshooting steps to resolve the Windows Explorer Has Stopped Working error on your Windows PC.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer
The first and most straightforward step is to restart your computer to see if the error goes away. Sometimes, a simple restart can fix the issue, especially if it’s caused by a temporary glitch.

Step 2: Update Your Windows
An outdated version of Windows can cause various issues, including the Windows Explorer Has Stopped Working error. To update your Windows, follow these steps:
1. Go to Start menu.
2. Click on Settings.
3. Click on Update & Security.
4. Click on Windows Update.
5. Click on Check for updates.
6. If there are any updates available, click on Download and Install.

Step 3: Scan for Viruses and Malware
A virus or malware infection can also cause the Windows Explorer Has Stopped Working error. To scan for viruses and malware, you can use the built-in Windows Defender or a third-party antivirus software. Here’s how to use Windows Defender:
1. Go to Start menu.
2. Click on Settings.
3. Click on Update & Security.
4. Click on Windows Security.
5. Click on Virus & threat protection.
6. Click on Scan options.
7. Select Full scan.
8. Click on Scan now.

Step 4: Run System File Checker
Corrupted system files can also cause the Windows Explorer Has Stopped Working error. To fix this issue, you can run the System File Checker (SFC) utility. Here’s how to do it:
1. Go to Start menu.
2. Type cmd in the search bar.
3. Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
4. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
5. Wait for the scan to complete.

Step 5: Check for Faulty Drivers
Outdated or faulty drivers can cause conflicts, leading to the Windows Explorer Has Stopped Working error. To check for faulty drivers, follow these steps:
1. Go to Start menu.
2. Type Device Manager in the search bar.
3. Click on Device Manager.
4. Look for any device with a yellow exclamation mark.
5. Right-click on the device and select Update driver.

Step 6: Uninstall Recently Installed Programs
If you’ve recently installed any software or program, it might be conflicting with other software, causing the Windows Explorer Has Stopped Working error. To fix this issue, you can uninstall the recently installed program. Here’s how to do it:
1. Go to Start menu.
2. Type Control Panel in the search bar.
3. Click on Control Panel.
4. Click on Programs.
5. Click on Uninstall a program.
6. Look for the recently installed program.
7. Right-click on the program and select Uninstall.

Step 7: Perform a Clean Boot
A clean boot can help you identify if any third-party software is causing the Windows Explorer Has Stopped Working error. Here’s how to perform a clean boot:
1. Go to Start menu.
2. Type msconfig in the search bar.
3. Click on System Configuration.
4. Click on the Services tab.
5. Check the Hide all Microsoft services box.
6. Click on Disable all.
7. Click on the Startup tab.
8. Click on Open Task Manager.
9. Disable all the startup items.
10. Close the Task Manager and click on OK.
11. Restart your computer.

Conclusion
The Windows Explorer Has Stopped Working error can be frustrating, but with the right troubleshooting steps, you can fix it and get back to using your computer without any issues. Follow the above steps to resolve the error, and if the issue persists, you can seek further assistance from a professional.

In conclusion, the Windows Explorer has stopped working error can be frustrating and disruptive, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be resolved. By following the troubleshooting guide outlined in this post, you can fix the error and get back to using your computer without any interruptions. Remember to always keep your system up-to-date and to scan for any malware or viruses regularly to prevent similar errors in the future. With these tips, you can ensure that your computer runs smoothly and efficiently.