How to Reopen Windows Explorer- A Step-by-Step Guide to Reviving Your File Manager

How to Reopen Windows Explorer

Have you ever accidentally closed Windows Explorer and found yourself lost without the familiar interface to navigate through your files and folders? Reopening Windows Explorer might seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually quite simple. Whether you’re using Windows 7, 8, 10, or even Windows 11, this guide will walk you through the various methods to reopen Windows Explorer quickly and efficiently. Let’s dive in and explore the different ways to access this essential feature.

1. Using the Taskbar

The quickest and most straightforward method to reopen Windows Explorer is by using the Taskbar. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Locate the Windows Explorer icon on the Taskbar. If you don’t see it, it might be hidden or grouped with other icons.
2. Right-click on the Windows Explorer icon and select “New Task (Run…)” from the context menu.
3. In the Run dialog box, type “explorer.exe” (without quotes) and press Enter.

Voilà! Windows Explorer will now open, allowing you to navigate your files and folders seamlessly.

2. Using the Quick Launch Bar

If you have a Quick Launch bar enabled on your Taskbar, you can simply click on the Windows Explorer icon to reopen it. If you don’t see the Quick Launch bar, you can enable it by right-clicking on the Taskbar, selecting “Toolbars,” and then checking “Quick Launch.”

3. Using the Run Command

Another method to reopen Windows Explorer is by using the Run command. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “explorer.exe” (without quotes) and press Enter.

This method works similarly to using the Taskbar method, as it also opens the Windows Explorer process.

4. Using the Search Box

You can also use the Search box to reopen Windows Explorer. Here’s how:

1. Press the Windows key + S to open the Search box.
2. Type “explorer.exe” (without quotes) and press Enter.

This method is quite similar to using the Run command, as it searches for the process and opens it.

5. Using the Task Manager

If none of the above methods work, you can use the Task Manager to reopen Windows Explorer. Here’s how:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
2. In the Processes tab, find “explorer.exe” in the list of running processes.
3. Right-click on “explorer.exe” and select “End Task.”
4. Click “Yes” to confirm that you want to end the task.
5. Click “File” in the upper-left corner of the Task Manager, then select “New Task (Run…).”
6. In the Run dialog box, type “explorer.exe” (without quotes) and press Enter.

Windows Explorer will now be reopened, and you can continue using it as usual.

Conclusion

Reopening Windows Explorer is a task that can be easily accomplished using various methods. Whether you prefer using the Taskbar, Quick Launch bar, Run command, Search box, or Task Manager, these methods will help you regain access to your files and folders without any hassle. Remember these techniques, and you’ll never be lost without your favorite file explorer again.