Guide: Fix ‘Windows 10 File Explorer Is Slow or Loading Slowly Error’ Issue
Users of Windows 10 have reported that File Explorer, a program used to access files and folders stored on their computers, has become slow or sluggish. Despite working and opening as normal, the program takes a few seconds to start.
A world of instant gratification can make waiting a few seconds for a map seem like an eternity. Here are some solutions to help speed up the process.
1. Turn off Cortana
Microsoft’s Cortana digital assistant can slow down the startup process of the file explorer, so users should disable it if they don’t need it.
2. Reset the file explorer
Resetting File Explorer will restore it to its original settings. To do this, press the Windows key + E to open File Explorer, then select Options and choose Change folder and search options.
Reset your folders by clicking the View tab and confirming the prompt.
Test File Explorer to see if it still takes time to open.
3. Start folder windows in a separate process
Using this setting, each folder will open in its own window. This can be beneficial as it prevents other File Explorer windows from crashing or hanging if one does. However, it may require more system resources depending on the hardware and number of open windows.
To fix the issue, check the box for ‘Start folder windows in a separate process’ in ‘Change folder and search options.’ This will allow you to save your changes and try again. You can always switch back later if needed.
4. System lags or lacks resources
Your computer may be running slowly due to insufficient RAM or disk space. To check, open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) and look for a 100% disk usage error, which indicates a lack of resources.
5. Cache for quick access
To access the AutomaticDestinations folder, open File Explorer and enable hidden files and folders. Then, copy and paste the path into the address bar to quickly navigate to it. The folder will not be visible if you try to find it without enabling hidden files first.
Clearing the Quick Access Cache will help optimize computer performance.
Users experiencing slow loading times with File Explorer may find relief by disabling Quick Access and deleting any shortcuts they created.
Reopen folder options and select “Open File Explorer to This PC” in the General tab.
6. Complete the maintenance task
Access the Security and Maintenance menu in Control Panel to view a drop-down list of maintenance options.
Click Start Maintenance to begin scanning for errors. Once the scan is complete, assess whether File Explorer is still running slowly.
7. Optimize folder and rebuild index
If you’re experiencing slow loading times in File Explorer for a folder with many files and sub-folders, optimizing and rebuilding the index may be the solution.
Organizing files into subfolders instead of keeping them all in one big folder can help speed up Windows File Explorer. Manual division of files can save time and fix the slow loading error that often occurs.
Windows 7 and 10 users can follow the same steps to achieve their goal.
8. Disable the Windows Search service
Windows Search creates an index of all files and folders stored on your system, allowing for faster searches. However, this process can slow down the file explorer.
To disable Windows Search, open the Services app, locate the Windows Search service and double-click it. Select ‘Disabled’ from the drop-down menu next to Startup type and click ‘Stop’ to prevent it from running. Save your changes and check your file explorer for the results.
9. Command Prompt
Access the command prompt with administrator rights.
Run the command below to execute it.
Once the process is finished, reboot your device.
Explore options
It’s time to upgrade your computer: ditch the HDD and switch to an SSD. This will make a huge difference in loading times, file explorer navigation, and overall performance - so you can avoid annoying delays and meet deadlines with ease.
Share your solutions to the File Explorer slow loading issue in the comments below.
Discover how to sort files by size or numerically in Windows 10 and find out what’s taking up space with the link below.
Fix ‘Windows 10 File Explorer Is Slow or Loading Slowly Error’ Issue: benefits
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Final note
If you’re having trouble with a slow Windows 10 File Explorer, this guide can help. Got questions? Ask us. And don’t forget to share the love by passing it along to your friends.
Have a query about fixing Windows 10 File Explorer loading slowly? Need help or want to add an alternate method? Contact us through our comment section, contact page, social media accounts, or Telegram channel. We’re here to help and answer questions within 24-48 hours (weekends off).
