Windows 11 File Explorer runs very slow

Question

Windows 11 File Explorer runs very slow

Dennis G 20

Windows file explorer is running extremely slow. At folder list level & opening file level takes 30-45seconds ++. May have to do with I-cloud and/or previous update - rolled back system at one point & file explorer worked well - next update -back to slow.

Kerry Wood 0 Reputation points

2025-09-04T21:15:21.1766667+00:00

Followed the instructions here, but did not see any improvement in how quickly folders would open.
Paul 0 Reputation points

2026-02-11T18:04:43.1333333+00:00

Sorry to pour oil on troubled waters but these stock suggestions have never resolved any windows issues for me. If MS would start making operating systems again we would all be much better off.

1 answer

Your answer

Kerry Wood 0 Reputation points

2025-09-04T21:15:21.1766667+00:00

Followed the instructions here, but did not see any improvement in how quickly folders would open.
Paul 0 Reputation points

2026-02-11T18:04:43.1333333+00:00

Sorry to pour oil on troubled waters but these stock suggestions have never resolved any windows issues for me. If MS would start making operating systems again we would all be much better off.

Answer 1

Hi, thank you for reaching out. I’m happy to help.

Please try the following:

Restart Windows Explorer

On your keyboard, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc
Choose the Processes tab.
Scroll down and find Windows Explorer
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.'

Share via

Windows 11 File Explorer runs very slow

1 answer

Your answer