Forum Discussion
Windows 11 File Explorer all messed up
I'm experiencing significant issues with File Explorer on my Windows 11 system. The interface seems disorganized and unresponsive, making it difficult to navigate through my files and folders.
Well, I will try leaving this solution here, although my previous post never got released, and I think most people with this issue have already given up and abandoned this thread...
I did find the cause of this issue, in my case... I use a Windows theming program called WindowBlinds, which enables loading of real themes, rather than the crippled theming system that Windows 11 offers. It turns out that some (currently unidentified) Windows update at end of 2024, broke the WindowBlinds interface - though the only symptom of this was that Window File Explorer was disabled (as documented here). Unfortunately, that update also broke WindowBlinds' update-checking mechanism, so I didn't know there was a new version available.
Once I installed the current version of WindowBlinds (11.06, vs 11.02 that I was previously using), then rebooted, this problem is completely resolved !! File Explorer now works fine.
I realize that most people posting here, are likely not using WindowBlinds, but this suggests the possibility that other programs may also have been broken by that Windows 11 update... so you might review what other programs you have installed, that are not standard Windows apps....
23 Replies
To fix File Explorer issues on Windows 11:
- Restart Explorer: Open Task Manager, right-click Windows Explorer, and choose Restart.
- Clear Cache: Go to File Explorer Options, click Clear under Clear File Explorer history.
- Run SFC: Open Command Prompt (Admin) and run sfc /scannow.
- Disable Quick Access: Set Open File Explorer to: This PC in File Explorer Options.
- Check Updates: Ensure Windows is up to date in Settings > Windows Update.
If the issue persists, reset File Explorer settings or create a new user account.
If I restart explorer will I loose photos and documents?
I suggest disabling the quick access option. Open File Explorer and select View, then Options. In the Folder Options window, under the General tab, change the option for "Open File Explorer to:" to This PC instead of Quick access. Click OK.
Clearing the File Explorer cache could resolve issues with how files and folders are displayed.
- Open File Explorer.
- Click on the three dots (menu) at the top and select Options.
- In the Folder Options window, go to the General tab.
- Click on Clear next to Clear File Explorer history.
- Click OK to close the window.
Frederickk​
Well, it doesn't... sorry... it simply doesn't...this method won't work for me!
