What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
File Explorer restarting repeatedly is a symptom, not a diagnosis. It may follow a Windows update or software change, or reflect a Windows component problem or conflict with a background app. Start by checking for Windows updates and restarting; if that does not help, run Microsoft’s DISM and System File Checker repair sequence, then use a clean boot to isolate startup conflicts. The right next step depends on your Windows version and whether the device is a managed or virtual desktop.
What can make File Explorer restart repeatedly?
Explorer can close and relaunch when it encounters a problem, but the symptom alone does not identify its cause. Potential leads include a recent Windows update, newly installed software or drivers, a shell extension, or damaged Windows components. A clean boot can help determine whether a non-Microsoft service or startup app is involved.
Before troubleshooting, note when the restarts began and what changed around that time. Check your Windows version and build, and whether the computer is personally managed or part of a work environment such as Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD) with FSLogix. Those details matter: Microsoft’s documented issues and fixes can apply only to particular versions and configurations.
Install available updates and restart
Microsoft’s general guidance for File Explorer problems on Windows 10 and Windows 11 starts with checking for available Windows updates and restarting the PC. Follow the steps in Microsoft’s File Explorer troubleshooting guide. If Explorer continues restarting after the restart, proceed to Windows component checks.
#1 Best Overall
- Connectivity: Includes WiFi, Bluetooth, and LAN for wireless and wired connections
- Memory: Features 16GB DDR4 RAM for smooth multitasking and performance
- Storage: Combines 500GB SSD and 1TB HDD for ample storage space
- Graphics: Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 for crisp visuals and video playback
- Design: Sleek desktop tower with black color and slim profile for modern look
Repair possible Windows component corruption
Microsoft recommends running Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) before System File Checker (SFC). DISM can repair the Windows component store that SFC relies on; SFC checks protected system files and replaces corrupted ones from a cached copy. Running these tools checks for possible damage—it does not establish that corruption caused your particular Explorer problem.
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Run the DISM command specified in Microsoft’s system-file repair instructions and let it finish.
- Run
sfc /scannowin the elevated Command Prompt. Wait for the scan to complete, then follow Microsoft’s guidance for the result it reports. - Check whether Explorer still restarts.
Use a clean boot to look for a background conflict
A clean boot starts Windows with essential drivers and startup programs. If Explorer works normally in that state, a non-Microsoft service or startup app may be interfering. The test does not identify the culprit on its own; re-enable items systematically to narrow it down.
Rank #2
- [INTEL POWERED CONTENT] - Built with a 8th Generation Hexa-Core Intel i5 and 32GB of DDR4 RAM; Modern, Windows 11 ready, with 4K support, Executive multitasking, media streaming and smooth, multi-tab web browsing; Perfect as an all-purpose multimedia computer; built for content creators; Plenty of RAM and Mass storage for photo and video editing powered by Intel HD 630
- [LATEST WIRELESS TECH] - This Dell Desktop Computer easily connects to the internet through the Built In WiFi / Bluetooth
- [SOLID STATE STORAGE] - This Dell Computer setup comes with an ultra-fast 1TB Solid State Drive (SSD); Setup as the primary boot device; Boot and load programs with lightning speed ; Additional expansion available
- [BUY & OWN WITH CONFIDENCE] - From the world's largest Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher; Quality Guarantee and Free Tech Support; Award-winning Customer Service; | Support Sustainable Business
- [MODERN HI-SPEED PORTS] - USB 3.0 (x4) | USB 2.0 (x4) | DisplayPort (x1) | HDMI Port (x1) | Audio Combo Jack (x1) | Audio Out (x1) | RJ-45 Ethernet (x1) | Internal SATA (x3)
- Follow Microsoft’s clean-boot instructions for your Windows version.
- Test whether Explorer continues restarting while Windows is in the clean-boot state.
- If the problem stops, re-enable services and startup apps in a controlled way, testing between changes until you identify a likely conflict.
- Restore normal startup settings when troubleshooting is finished.
A clean boot temporarily reduces functionality. If the computer is managed by an employer or connected to a managed network, ask the administrator or support team before changing startup or boot configuration; Microsoft warns that changing advanced boot options can cause problems.
Check whether a version-specific issue matches your PC
Do not apply a fix for another Windows release simply because the symptom sounds similar. For example, Microsoft’s September 8, 2026 update notes for Windows 11 26H1, OS Build 28000.2954, describe desktop loading issues and Explorer crashes primarily on Azure Virtual Desktop hosts using FSLogix after specified updates. Microsoft lists manually launching explorer.exe as a workaround for that narrow scenario. It is not a general fix for ordinary PCs or other Windows builds; check that your version, update sequence, and environment match the report before using it.
Rank #3
- Model: Dell OptiPlex 7050 Small Form Factor (SFF)
- Processor: Intel Core i7-7700 3.60 GHz
- Memory: 32GB DDR4 Ram
- Storage: 1TB Solid State Drive (SSD) Fast Boot + Storage
- Operating System: Windows 11 Pro (64-bit)
A separate Microsoft article describes an Explorer crash and restart triggered by accessing a third-party Control Panel item, but that hotfix applies to Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2. It is not a current Windows 10 or Windows 11 recommendation: Microsoft’s historical hotfix article.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Consider Windows recovery only after less disruptive steps
If updates, component repair, and conflict isolation do not resolve the restarts, review the Windows recovery option that fits your situation. Microsoft advises starting with the least disruptive suitable option. Back up important files first: some recovery choices can cause data loss. See Microsoft’s overview of recovery options and its guide to the Windows Recovery Environment.
What to know if you use Windows 10
Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025. Do not assume that a standard Windows 10 installation continues to receive ordinary free security fixes. This support status does not identify the cause of Explorer restarting, but it matters when deciding how to maintain the device and which update guidance applies.
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallCrashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteQuick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
