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Explorer.exe Application Error: How to Fix it in 8 Steps
Fix the issue with expert solutions brought by our team
6 min. read
Updated onMarch 21, 2024
updated onMarch 21, 2024
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Key notes
Explorer.exe error can occur at any time with some users stating that it shows up while shutting down their PCs. It is a system error, so it affects all Windows iterations, but it’s most often present on Windows 10 and Windows 11.
What is explorer.exe system warning?
Explorer.exe is a system error that pops up when your OS or critical files are corrupted. It can also be a sign of malware on you PC or related do memory issues.
There are various known causes for the explorer.exe application error. Below are some of the popular ones:
How do I fix explorer.exe error?
1. Update PC
If you are facing the explorer.exe error this file does not have an app associated with it or any other version of the error, it might be due to an outdated operating system.
Thus, it is recommended to always keep Windows 10 up-to-date.
2. Change the size of the virtual memory
Having your system manage the virtual paging file size automatically can lead to the explorer.exe error. Thus, the need to disable it and set the maximum size manually. Note that, you shouldn’t set the value to more than what your PC can manage.
Other processes can experience issues too, and we already coverednvwmi64.exe errorsin a separate guide.
3. Check the hard drive
There’s a good chance your hard drive actually causes the explorer.exe system error. Most likely if it’s corrupted or not defragmented well. Running the Error Checking feature should tell you more about the issue and the possible fixes.
4. Run SFC and DISM scans
If your hard disk is in a good condition, and you are still getting the explorer.exe application error, the problem might be down to corrupt system files.
Running theSFC scanshould help you fix this easily. However, if the SFC scan fails, you can use DISM to run a deeper scan and fix the issue. It is also a good idea to run another SFC scan after DISM finishes.
Alternatively, to avoid the back and forth and uncertainty, you can use aspecialized toolto handle the situation.
5. Disable the taskbar auto-hide
Some users reported that having the taskbar auto-hide option enabled can cause the explorer.exe application error. So, the obvious solution, in this case, is to turn off the auto-hide option.
6.Run Memory Diagnostic Tool
The Memory Diagnostic Tool scans your system memory for any potential problems that can cause the explorer.exe error. It also gives recommendations, which allows you to take further action.
7. Perform a virus scan
The explorer.exe error the group or resource is not issue can sometimes be triggered by a virus that is causing your PC to misbehave. While the Full Scan option might take hours to complete, it should help detect and eliminate hidden malware.
Better still, you can use a top-notch antivirus in ESET NOD32. This lightweight software runs a deep scan and removes even the most stubborn of viruses.
Whether online or offline, ESET NOD32 takes a no-nonsense stand against malware of any kind.
8. Restore the system to a healthier point
If all fixes prove abortive in solving the explorer.exe application error, you might need to restore your PC to a point when the process was working well. Note that this will remove all the changes made to your PC since that time.
That would be all, we hope at least one of these solutions helped you solve the Explorer.exe Application Error.
In the same vein, if you are experiencing theexplorer.exe high CPU usageissue, check our detailed guide for everything needed to fix it.
If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions, just reach out for the comments below.
More about the topics:File Explorer,System Errors
Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Passionate about all elements related to Windows and combined with his innate curiosity, Ivan has delved deep into understanding this operating system, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.
When he’s not tackling diverse driver-related problems, Ivan enjoys watching good movies and spending time hiking with his family and friends.
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Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Ivan has delved deep into understanding the Windows OS, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.
