My File Explorer App is almost always "not responding" What can I do about it?

[hguffey]

I have an HP All-In-One 27 Desktop PC 27 and I am using Windows 11. My File Explorer App keepgoing to a "not responding" stage. what can I do about it?

[VikramTheGreat · Accepted solution]

Hi @hguffey,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

Thank you for posting your query. I will be glad to help you.

I know how frustrating it is when File Explorer keeps freezing or going into “Not Responding” mode, especially when you're trying to get work done on your HP All-in-One 27 desktop. Let’s walk through some effective steps to fix this together.

Step 1: Restart File Explorer

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Find Windows Explorer in the list.
3. Right-click it → choose Restart.

Step 2: Clear File Explorer History

1. Press Windows + R, type control folders, and press Enter.
2. Under the General tab, click Clear next to “Clear File Explorer history”.
3. Click Apply → OK.

Step 3: Disable Quick Access

1. Go to File Explorer Options (same as above).
2. Under Open File Explorer to, change from Quick Access to This PC.
3. Uncheck both: 
   • Show recently used files
   • Show frequently used folders
4. Click Apply → OK.

Step 4: Check for Corrupted System Files

Run System File Checker:

1. Press Windows + X → choose Terminal (Admin).
2. Type: 
3. sfc /scannow
4. Press Enter and wait for the scan to complete.

Step 5: Update Windows and Drivers

• Go to Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates.
• Also, update your graphics driver via Device Manager: 
  • Expand Display adapters → right-click your GPU → Update driver.

Step 6: Disable Third-Party Shell Extensions (Advanced)

Sometimes third-party apps add extensions that interfere with File Explorer. You can use a tool like ShellExView to disable non-Microsoft extensions.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

Did we resolve the issue? If yes, please consider marking this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" to give us a helpful vote - your feedback keeps us going!

Regards,

VikramTheGreat