How to End explorer.exe Windows 10
Are you experiencing issues with your Windows 10 computer, and you suspect that the explorer.exe process might be causing the problem? Ending the explorer.exe process can sometimes help resolve certain issues, but it should be done with caution. In this article, we will guide you through the steps on how to end the explorer.exe process in Windows 10.
Understanding explorer.exe
Before diving into the steps, it is essential to understand what explorer.exe is. Explorer.exe is the executable file that powers the Windows File Explorer, which is the default file manager in Windows 10. It is responsible for displaying the file system structure, managing files and folders, and handling various system operations. While explorer.exe is a crucial component of Windows 10, sometimes it can become unresponsive or cause system instability.
Steps to End explorer.exe Process
1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc: Open the Task Manager by pressing these keys simultaneously. This will launch the Task Manager window.
2. Go to the Processes Tab: In the Task Manager, click on the “Processes” tab. This tab displays a list of all the running processes on your computer.
3. Locate explorer.exe: Scroll through the list of processes to find explorer.exe. It should be near the top of the list.
4. End the Process: Once you have located explorer.exe, right-click on it and select “End Task.” A confirmation dialog may appear, asking if you are sure you want to end the task. Click “End Task” again to confirm.
5. Restart File Explorer: After ending the explorer.exe process, File Explorer will automatically restart. You will notice that the taskbar and start menu disappear, and you will be greeted with a black screen.
6. Close and Reopen File Explorer: If File Explorer does not restart automatically, you can manually close and reopen it. Press the Windows key + X, and then click on “Task Manager.” In the Task Manager, click on the “File” menu, and then select “New Task (Run…).” Type “explorer.exe” in the “Create New Task” window and click “OK.”
Caution
Ending the explorer.exe process should only be done if you are sure that it is causing a specific issue on your computer. Ending this process can lead to system instability, and it may result in a loss of functionality. If you are not sure about the cause of the problem, it is recommended to seek assistance from a professional.
In conclusion, ending the explorer.exe process in Windows 10 can be a useful troubleshooting step when dealing with specific issues. However, it should be approached with caution, and it is crucial to understand the potential consequences. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can safely end the explorer.exe process and attempt to resolve any related problems.
