File Explorer - Unable to open a new folder or sub-folder

[Geoff1954]

Brought laptop Nov 20. Only recently noticed that in File Explorer, I could not open a new folder,  either using the 'New Folder' tab and if I right click, I don't get the drop down list does not display a folder option.

[Echo_Lake · Accepted solution]

@Geoff1954

Thank you for posting on the HP Support Community.
 

Don't worry as I'll be glad to help, however, to provide an accurate resolution, I need a few more details:

• Did this happen after a recent window or software update?
• Did you make any changes on the settings of your PC prior to the issue?

While you respond to that, let's try these steps: 
1] Restart File Explorer

• Select Ctrl + Shift + Esc and then select Task Manager from the menu. Find Windows Explorer and right-click on it, select End task.
• Right at the top of the Task Manager window, you’ll find the File option. Click on it and select Run new task. You’ll then need to type in explorer.exe in the box. Click Enter.
• Does this help?

2] Set File Explorer defaults

1. Open File Explorer Options (earlier known as Folder Options) from Start Search and do the following:
2. Under General tab: Clear File Explorer History and press Restore Defaults
3. Under View tab: Press Reset folders and Restore Defaults button.
4. Under Search tab: Press Restore Defaults button.

Hope this helps! Keep me posted for further assistance.
Please click “Accept as Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution.

[Geoff1954]

Thank you Echo_Lake

First option (Flight Explorer - End task) did not work.

Second option (Clearing Flight Exp history and Restore default) did work.

This was a new lap top brought in Nov 2020 - Would this have been an inherent fault before leaving the factory?

Thanks again.

Geoff

[Geoff1954]

Hello - Spoke too soon. Shortly after my initial reply to you, I went back to File Explorer and I could not open a new folder or sub folder. Worked through the process again, no success.

[Echo_Lake]

@Geoff1954

Thank you for posting back. 

I appreciate your efforts to try and resolve the issue. I would suggest performing system factory reset will put the computer back to the original factory settings in this way all corrupted and outdated software will be removed. 

While doing the recovery there is an option to back up your personal files. If you have not previously done one now is a good time. 

Restoring Files that were Backed Up Using HP Recovery Manager (Windows )You can also contact HP support for assistance. They can remotely access your system to help alleviate difficulties: www.hp.com/contacthp/

The HP Cloud Recovery Tool allows you to download recovery software to a USB drive. You can use the downloaded recovery image file in order to install the Windows operating system. 

• Click here: https://support.hp.com/in-en/document/c04758961#AbT3to perform System Recovery (Windows 10) 
• Click here: https://support.hp.com/in-en/document/c06162205 to Use the HP Cloud Recovery Tool (Windows 10)

Hope this helps! Keep me posted for further assistance.
Please click “Accept as Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution.

[Geoff1954]

Hello Echo_Lake

I have carried out a Windows 10 restore and that has cleared the problem.

Thanks again for your advice.

[Echo_Lake]

@Geoff1954

Thank you for posting back. 

I am glad to know that you managed to resolve the issue. Please reach out again for any further assistance.

Have a nice day ahead.