Hello,
Frequent hangs with Windows Explorer can indeed be frustrating, but there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to address the issue. Here are some suggestions to help you narrow down and potentially resolve the problem:
Update Windows and Drivers: Ensure that Windows 11 is up to date with the latest updates and patches. Additionally, update graphics card drivers and any other relevant hardware drivers to their latest versions.
Check for Malware: Run a full system scan using a reputable antivirus program to ensure that malware is not causing the hangs.
Scan for System File Errors: Use the System File Checker (SFC) tool to scan for and repair any corrupted or missing system files. Open a Command Prompt with administrative privileges and run the command: sfc /scannow.
Check for Hard Drive Errors: Run the Check Disk (CHKDSK) utility to check for and repair any file system or disk errors. Open a Command Prompt with administrative privileges and run the command: chkdsk /f.
Check for Application Conflicts: Sometimes third-party applications can conflict with Windows Explorer. Try booting into Safe Mode and see if the hangs persist. If they do not, it suggests that a third-party application might be causing the issue.
Disable Shell Extensions: Some shell extensions can cause Explorer to hang. Use the ShellExView tool to disable non-Microsoft shell extensions one by one and see if the hangs stop.
Check for Recent Software Installations: If the hangs started occurring after installing a particular software, try uninstalling that software and see if the problem goes away.
Monitor System Resources: Keep an eye on your system's resource usage, such as CPU, memory, and disk usage, using the Task Manager. This might help you identify any spikes or abnormalities when the hangs occur.
Check Event Viewer: Look for other events in the Event Viewer that might provide more context or details about the hangs. This can help you pinpoint the underlying cause.
Create a New User Profile: Create a new user profile and see if the hangs still occur. If not, it might suggest that the user's profile is corrupted.
Perform a Clean Boot: Use the System Configuration tool (msconfig) to perform a clean boot, disabling non-Microsoft services and startup items. This can help identify if a background application is causing the hangs.
Consider System Restore: If you can identify a point in time when the hangs weren't occurring, you could consider using the System Restore feature to revert your system to that state.
Remember to create backups or restore points before making significant changes to your system. If the issue persists despite trying these steps, you might consider seeking help from Microsoft Support or a qualified technician who can analyze the issue more deeply.
I used AI provided by ChatGPT to formulate part of this response. I have verified that the information is accurate before sharing it with you.
Hope this resolves your Query !!
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