Windows 11 Users Can Improve Slow File Explorer with These Strategies

In the realm of digital productivity, the efficiency of our tools can often go unnoticed until they falter. A sluggish file manager can transform the simple act of accessing files into a frustrating endeavor. Fortunately, Windows 11 users facing a slow File Explorer have several strategies at their disposal to restore speed and functionality.

Slow File Manager on Windows 11? Try Using File Explorer in Full Screen

One of the simplest solutions to enhance the performance of File Explorer is to utilize full-screen mode. This approach eliminates the navigation bar, potentially streamlining the interface and improving responsiveness.

1. Open File Explorer.
2. Press F11 to activate full-screen mode.
3. The navigation bar will now be hidden.
4. Test File Explorer to see if its performance has improved.
5. To exit full-screen mode, press F11 again.

Restart File Explorer

If full-screen mode does not yield results, restarting File Explorer may reset any underlying issues affecting its performance.

1. Right-click the Start button.
2. Select Task Manager.
3. Right-click Windows Explorer under Apps.
4. Click Restart.
5. Once Windows Explorer has restarted, check its functionality again.

Close Apps and Processes You’re Not Using

Resource-heavy applications running in the background can significantly slow down File Explorer. Closing unnecessary apps may free up valuable resources and enhance performance.

1. Right-click the Start button.
2. Select Task Manager.
3. Right-click on any app or process you wish to terminate.
4. Select End Task.
5. Repeat for any other non-essential apps or processes.
6. After closing the desired applications, test File Explorer again for improved speed.

Turn Off Quick Access and Clear History

While features like Quick Access are designed to enhance user experience, they can sometimes hinder performance. Disabling Quick Access and clearing File Explorer history may lead to a more efficient file management experience.

1. Open File Explorer and click the Three Dots icon in the menu bar.
2. Select Options.
3. In the General tab, uncheck Show Recently Used Files and Show Frequently Used Folders.
4. Click the Clear button next to Clear File Explorer History.
5. Click Apply to save the changes.
6. Test File Explorer again to see if performance improves.

Use the Search and Indexing Troubleshooter to Fix Slow File Manager on Windows 11

Windows 11 includes a built-in troubleshooter specifically for addressing search and indexing issues, which can contribute to a sluggish File Explorer. Running this troubleshooter may resolve underlying problems.

1. Type Control Panel in the search field on the taskbar.
2. Select Control Panel from the results.
3. Click the View By drop-down and select Small Icons.
4. Select Indexing Options.
5. At the bottom of the window, click Troubleshoot Search and Indexing.
6. Select Search or Indexing is Slow as the issue and click Next.
7. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.

Update the OS to Fix Slow File Manager on Windows 11

Occasionally, the sluggishness of File Explorer can be traced back to bugs in the operating system. Ensuring that Windows 11 is updated to the latest version can often resolve these issues. Regular updates not only fix bugs but also bring performance improvements and new features that can enhance your overall experience with File Explorer.

By employing these strategies, Windows 11 users can effectively address a slow file manager and restore their digital productivity to optimal levels.