File Explorer Not Responding in Windows 10

Summary: Having trouble with File Explorer not responding in Windows 10? Follow this guide to resolve issues by clearing history, resetting folders, and restoring default settings. Restart your computer to fix the problem. ...

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Symptoms

Affected Operating Systems:

  • Windows 10

Does Windows 10 File Explorer fail to respond, continues in a working loop and then the non-responding message appears?

Cause

This problem occurs because of certain applications downloaded to the computer that can cause some settings to be changed, causing FILE EXPLORER locking and slow computer performance. To resolve the issue, follow the steps below:

Resolution

  1. Click the Start button and type FILE EXPLORER OPTIONS:
    Type File Explorer Options in search on start menu
  2. Click the GENERAL tab, in the Clear File Explorer History option click CLEAR, then click RESTORE DEFAULTS, and finally click APPLY.
    Restore Defaults and click Apply
  3. Now click the VIEW tab, select RESET FOLDERS, and then click YES. Then click RESTORE DEFAULTS, and then APPLY.
    Click Restore Defaults and then Apply
  4. In the SEARCH tab, click RESTORE DEFAULTS after this click APPLY.
    Click Restore Defaults and then Apply
  5. Once this is done, restart the computer, and the issue should be resolved.

Affected Products

Alienware, Inspiron, Legacy Desktop Models, OptiPlex, Vostro, XPS, G Series, G Series, Alienware, Inspiron, Latitude, Vostro, XPS, Legacy Laptop Models, Fixed Workstations, Mobile Workstations
Article Properties
Article Number: 000148462
Article Type: Solution
Last Modified: 17 Jul 2025
Version:  8
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