Windows 11 hangs when entering Downloads folder

asked 2021-11-23T07:59:42.947+00:00
AG 391 Reputation points

Windows 11 hangs when entering Downloads folder and "Working on it..." is displayed.
When trying to close the window I am receiving the message "Windows explorer is not responding"

I have already tried

DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth

sfc /scannow

Full Disk Cleanup with system files.

Thanks,
AG

Windows 11
Windows 11
A Microsoft operating system designed for productivity, creativity, and ease of use.
3,474 questions
Accepted answer
  1. answered 2021-11-26T09:24:15.73+00:00
    AG 391 Reputation points

    Hi,

    Clearing file explorer history did not solved the problem for me.
    I was forced to delete all files in Downloads folder using CMD.

2 additional answers

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  1. answered 2021-11-25T16:26:26.307+00:00
    Limitless Technology 37,286 Reputation points

    Hi there,

    The most effective method to fix Windows Explorer not responding is to clear file explorer history. You can open on Control Panel, set view by large icons and click File Explorer Options from the interface. Then click Clear button and OK to clear Windows Explorer history. Then try opening Windows Explorer again.

    If the issue has been occurring for a month or more, it may be better to perform an In-Place Upgrade and restore Windows to the original installation. Performing an In-Place Upgrade will not damage files and applications that are currently installed on your computer.

    You can also try the troubleshoots as per this link https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/error-windows-explorer-has-stopped-working-057f3872-6252-67e3-2c5a-88c9c633fe41

    --If the reply is helpful, please Upvote and Accept it as an answer--

  2. answered 2022-04-06T03:42:43.293+00:00
    Buster D 1 Reputation point

    Solution #3: Change the Folder Settings worked for me

    downloads-folder-not-responding