How to Fix Slow File Explorer in Windows 10: Quick Solutions

If you’ve noticed that your File Explorer is taking too long to load or respond, it may be due to a corrupted index or other issues. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some quick solutions to fix the problem.

How to Fix File Explorer Is Slow or Loading Slowly Issue in Windows 10

Here are some solutions that you can follow to solve the problem:

Solution 1: Disable Windows Search

According to some users, the culprit behind the slow File Explorer is the Windows search service. You can disable this service by following these steps:

1. Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type “msconfig” and press Enter.
3. Go to “Services” and find the “Hawkeye Windows Search” service.
4. Uncheck the checkbox next to it to disable.
5. Click Apply and OK, then restart your computer.

Solution 2: Disable OneDrive

OneDrive may be blocking the File Explorer process, so disabling it could help. Follow these steps:

1. Turn off your computer, then turn it back on.
2. If the problem is solved, keep OneDrive disabled.

Solution 3: Change Optimization

You may need to change the optimization settings for specific folders to resolve issues. Follow these steps:

1. Open File Explorer by pressing Windows key + E.
2. Locate the folder you’re having problems with and open it.
3. Right-click on any empty space and select “Customize this folder”.
4. Under “Optimize this folder”, select “General”.
5. Save changes and exit. Restart your computer and check for improvements.

Solution 4: Override the Creation Date Column

Changing the columns displayed in File Explorer can also solve the problem. Here’s how:

1. Open File Explorer by pressing Windows key + E.
2. Right-click on any column heading and select “More”.
3. Uncheck “Date” and check “Modified Date”.
4. Save changes and exit. Restart your computer and check for improvements.

Solution 5: Run the Indexing and Search Troubleshooter

If the previous methods don’t work, try running the troubleshooter:

1. Open Windows Settings by pressing Windows key + I, then select “Update & Security”.
2. Go to “Troubleshoot” and click “Search and Index”.
3. Follow the prompts and check for improvements.

Solution 6: Running SFC / DISM Analysis

If none of the above methods work, you can try running an SFC scan followed by DISM to identify and fix corrupted files or modules. Here’s how:

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Type “sfc /scannow” and press Enter.
3. If it doesn’t work, run “Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth” and hit Enter.
4. Restart your computer and check for improvements.

Final Remarks

We hope these solutions help you fix the slow File Explorer issue in Windows 10. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us. And if you found this article helpful, please share it with your friends and family to support us.

FAQs

1. Why is my File Explorer slow to open?

There can be several reasons why File Explorer is slow to open, such as corrupted files, OneDrive syncing, indexing errors, or outdated Windows settings.

2. Can disabling Windows search cause any issues?

Yes, disabling Windows search can have consequences such as the search bar on the taskbar not working, and some Cortana features may be affected.

3. Can I keep OneDrive disabled?

Yes, you can keep OneDrive disabled if it helps to fix the slow File Explorer issue.

4. How can I optimize the File Explorer loading speed on my computer?

You can optimize the File Explorer loading speed on your computer by changing the optimization settings for specific folders or columns, or by running troubleshooting tools like the indexing and search troubleshooter or the SFC scan.