Why is there a duplicate window when I hover over Windows Exporer on task bar?

C. McD 20 Reputation points
2025-07-19T01:06:56.69+00:00

Hello

First time asking a question, as I have not had any luck searching for an answer on the web.

Please see image attached. This is what I see when I hover over Explorer pinned to the task bar. There is only one folder open in Windows Explorer. Clicking on the white or black side takes me to the same folder. If I click the X on the black side to close, nothing happens. Clicking X on white side closes white window first. Black side remains open until I move my mouse or click on it, then it disappears.

This just started recently, and I can't figure out why.

User's image

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Files, folders, and storage
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Answer accepted by question author
Estrella721 45,400 Reputation points Independent Advisor
2025-07-19T01:41:03.16+00:00

Hi,

● Restart Windows Explorer

  1. On your keyboard, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc
  2. Choose the Processes tab.
  3. Scroll down and find Windows Explorer
  4. Right-click on it then select Restart.

● Run SFC and DISM to fix corrupted system files.

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/using-system-file-checker-in-windows-365e0031-36b1-6031-f804-8fd86e0ef4ca Restart your computer.

● Clear File Explorer cache

In the search bar, type 'File Explorer options' and press Enter. Under the General tab, click the 'Clear' button next to 'Clear File Explorer history.' Then, click 'Apply' and 'OK.'

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