Explorer constantly crashing Windows 10 is a frustrating issue that can occur for various reasons.
The File Explorer is an essential tool in Windows 10, but when it starts crashing frequently, it can hinder your productivity and slow down your workflow. Understanding the causes and performing the necessary steps to fix the issue is crucial to getting back to your daily tasks. This article will provide you with comprehensive information on the possible reasons behind Explorer constantly crashing Windows 10 and the troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue.
Common Causes of Explorer Constantly Crashing in Windows 10
There are several reasons why File Explorer might be crashing in Windows 10. Some of the most common causes include:- Corrupt system files or registry
- Outdated or corrupted drivers
- Conflicting programs or applications
- Malware or virus infections
- Hardware issues or overheating
Checking for Corrupt System Files
Corrupt system files can cause File Explorer to crash. Microsoft provides a built-in tool called the System File Checker (SFC) that can help repair damaged system files.The SFC tool is designed to scan your system files and replace any damaged ones with healthy ones from the Windows component store. To use the SFC tool, you can follow these steps:
- Open the command prompt as an administrator
- Run the command sfc /scannow
- Wait for the scan to complete and follow the prompts
Outdated or Corrupted Drivers
Outdated or corrupted graphics or display drivers can cause the File Explorer to crash. You can try updating your display drivers to the latest version.Here are the steps to update your display drivers:
- Press the Windows key + X and select Device Manager
- Expand the Display Adapters section
- Right-click on the graphics driver and select Update driver
- Follow the prompts to complete the update
Fixing Corrupted Registry Entries
The Windows registry is a central database that stores settings and options for your operating system. Sometimes, a corrupted registry entry can cause File Explorer to crash. You can try using the registry editor to fix the corrupted entry.Here are the steps to fix corrupted registry entries:

- Press the Windows key + R and type regedit
- Navigate to the following key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer
- Look for corrupted registry entries and delete them
- Restart your computer
Resolving Conflicting Programs or Applications
Sometimes, conflicting programs or applications can cause File Explorer to crash. You can try closing unnecessary programs and applications to see if it resolves the issue.Here are the steps to close unnecessary programs:
- Press the Alt+Tab keys to switch between open windows
- Close any unnecessary programs or applications
- Restart your computer
Removing Malware or Virus Infections
Malware or virus infections can cause File Explorer to crash. You can try running a virus scan to remove any infections.| Method | Steps |
|---|---|
| Windows Defender |
|
| Third-party antivirus software |
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Troubleshooting Hardware Issues or Overheating
Hardware issues or overheating can cause File Explorer to crash. You can try checking your computer's temperature and dust levels to resolve the issue.- Check your computer's temperature using software such as SpeedFan or HWMonitor
- Clean dust from your computer's vents and fans
- Check for any loose connections and tighten them
Resolving the Issue
If none of the above steps resolve the issue, you can try resetting the File Explorer to its default settings.Here are the steps to reset File Explorer:
- Press the Windows key + R and type powershell
- Run the command Get-AppxPackage -AllUsers | Remove-AppxPackage
- Restart your computer
























