Forum Discussion
Windows 11 Explorer VERY slow
By the beginning of this year, I went through the process of reinstalling Windows 11(Home) entirely. The OS is installed on a SSD. File indexing is done.
For some reason, Windows Explorer hangs (in other words, I'll see a looping circle on a folder and it will show as "not responding" if I click on it).
I can only access my file with Explorer++. On the other hand, I can even read videos with V1C without any "lag".
I also have Lively Wallpaper running on the background. I tried to use my PC without it of course. Also try to turn off all services I don't need, just to make sure.
1. Check for system updates: Open Settings > Windows Update to check for and install the latest system updates.
The update may contain performance optimizations and bug fixes.
2. Disable unnecessary startup items:
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Switch to the Startup tab and disable unnecessary startup programs.
3. Optimize File Explorer settings:
Open File Explorer and click View > Options.
In “Folder Options”, select “General” tab, uncheck “Show recently used files in Quick Access” and “Show frequently used folders in Quick Access”. Show frequently used folders in quick access”.
In the “View” tab, check “Open folder windows in a separate process”.
4. Clear File Explorer history:
Open File Explorer and click View > Options.
In the “General” tab, click the “Clear” button to clear the File Explorer history.
