Windows Explorer Freezing

Question

Hi I have Windows 10. When I open a folder in explorer and try double clicking on a file to open, the window freezes and says 'not responding'. Please see below. It seems to mainly happen when I click on a .pdf file. It has never happened before. Just started yesterday. I have not installed any new programmes or made any changes. Any suggestions? Thanks

Answer 1

Hi and thanks for reaching out. My name is Bernard a Windows fan like you. I'll be happy to help you out today.

I understand the issue you have, there is nothing to worry I am here to help, I know some of these steps are already done, you have just skipped it if you think it will have the same result.

Method 1. Clear cache of File explorer

-Open Run Command ( Press Windows key + R)

-Copy, paste then click ok the file path below:

%APPDATA%\Microsoft\Windows\Recent\AutomaticDestinations

Delete everything inside the AutomaticDestinations folder

-Restart PC and check

Method 2. Do clean boot:

A “clean boot” starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs, so that you can determine whether a background program is interfering with your game or program.

• In the search box on the taskbar, type msconfig and select System Configuration from the results.
• On the Services tab of System Configuration, select Hide all Microsoft services, and then select Disable all.
• On the Startup tab of System Configuration, select Open Task Manager.
• Under Startup in Task Manager, for each startup item, select the item and then select Disable.
• Close Task Manager.
• On the Startup tab of System Configuration, select OK. When you restart the computer, it's in a clean boot environment.

troubleshooting reference: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/929135...

Let me know how it goes and I hope that helps.

Bernard