Windows Explorer is not refreshing automatically

Question

Hi folks, this is my first post so please be gentle with me! I am running XP Home and have a problem with Windows folders not refreshing automatically, I have to hit F5 to update the view. This only happens with Shared folders which are available to other members of my family and appears to be a known issue (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/823291). My own personal folders are updated immediately. The Microsoft document recommends I contact Dell as they pre-installed Windows. Does anybody have any advice please?

mombodog · Answer

Did you try the registry modification in that KB article?

Registry information

Warning Serious problems might occur if you modify the registry incorrectly by using Registry Editor or by using another method. These problems might require that you reinstall your operating system. Microsoft cannot guarantee that these problems can be solved. Modify the registry at your own risk.

Follow these steps:

1. Locate and then click the following key in the registry:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer

2. On the Edit menu, point to New, and then click DWORD Value.

3. Type NoSimpleNetIDList, and then press ENTER.

4. On the Edit menu, click Modify.

5. Type 1, and then click OK.

Marty999 · Answer

No Mombodog, I have not tried to edit the registry as yet. When I read the MS article it made it sound like I have to install a Hotfix first, then edit the registry. Or have I misundertood the instructions?

mombodog · Answer

The patch they refer to KB823291 is included in SP2, so if you have SP2 installed, which you should, you still need to do the reg hack.   ' Note You must follow the steps in the 'Registry information' section to resolve this problem, even when Windows XP with Service Pack 2 is installed.'

Marty999 · Answer

Oh I see! Thanks pal, I'll try the hack in the next day or two and let you know how it goes. Marty.

Marty999 · Answer

Well I took the plunge and edited the registry as instructed. It did not seem to make any difference, but I have now discovered that if I choose to view my folders without the folder list/tree visible in the left hand pane, the folder does not refresh automatically, but if I have this list visible it does refresh automatically. Furthermore, if I click on the folders button again to remove the list from the left hand panel, the folder still refreshes automatically until I close it, and upon re-opening it reverts to non-refresh mode. Weird!

Windows General

Was this post helpful?