Are you tired of dealing with a Windows Explorer that keeps restarting on your Windows 7 system? You’re not alone! This frustrating issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including corrupted system files, malfunctioning software, and even malware infections. In this article, we’ll explore the most effective solutions to fix Windows Explorer restarting on Windows 7 and get your system back to normal.
Understanding the Issue: Why Windows Explorer Keeps Restarting
Before we dive into the fixes, it’s essential to understand why Windows Explorer keeps restarting in the first place. This behavior can be triggered by a range of factors, including:
- Corrupted system files: Sometimes, system files can become damaged or corrupted, causing Windows Explorer to malfunction and restart repeatedly.
- Malfunctioning software: A poorly designed or incompatible software can interfere with Windows Explorer, leading to the restarting issue.
- Malware infections: Malware can infect Windows Explorer and cause it to restart continuously.
- System resource issues: Insufficient system resources, such as RAM or CPU, can cause Windows Explorer to become unstable and restart.
- Driver updates: Incompatible or faulty driver updates can cause Windows Explorer to restart.
Fixin’ Time: Solutions to Stop Windows Explorer from Restarting
Now that we’ve covered the possible causes, let’s explore the solutions to fix Windows Explorer restarting on Windows 7.
Solution 1: Restart Windows Explorer Manually
The simplest solution is to restart Windows Explorer manually. This can be done by:
- Pressing the Ctrl + Shift + Esc keys to open the Task Manager.
- In the Task Manager, click on the Processes tab.
- Locate the explorer.exe process and click on it.
- Click on the End Task button to stop the process.
- Wait for a few seconds and then click on File > Run and type explorer.exe to restart Windows Explorer.
Solution 2: Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM Tools
System File Checker (SFC) and DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) are built-in Windows tools that can help fix corrupted system files and registry entries.
- Open the Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Type the following command and press Enter: sfc /scannow
- Wait for the scan to complete, and then type the following command and press Enter: dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth
Solution 3: Disable Any Recently Installed Software
If you’ve recently installed new software, try disabling it to see if it’s causing the issue.
- Go to the Control Panel > Programs and Features.
- Locate the recently installed software and click on it.
- Click on the Uninstall button to remove the software.
Solution 4: Run a Virus Scan
Malware infections can cause Windows Explorer to restart continuously. Run a full virus scan using your antivirus software to detect and remove any malware.
Solution 5: Update Drivers
Outdated or faulty drivers can cause system instability and Windows Explorer restarting issues.
- Go to the Device Manager (Press the Win + X keys and select Device Manager).
- Expand each category and look for devices with a yellow exclamation mark or a red X.
- Right-click on each device and select Update Driver to update the drivers.
Solution 6: Perform a System Restore
If you’ve made recent changes to your system, you can try performing a System Restore to revert back to a previous point when the issue didn’t exist.
- Go to the Control Panel > System and Security > System.
- Click on System Protection on the left side.
- Click on System Restore and follow the prompts to select a restore point.
Solution 7: Disable Windows Explorer Add-ons
Sometimes, third-party add-ons can interfere with Windows Explorer, causing it to restart.
- Open the File Explorer and click on the View tab.
- Click on Options and then click on Change folder and search options.
- In the Folder Options window, click on the View tab.
- Uncheck the Display as a folder option for any third-party add-ons.
Solution 8: Re-register Windows Explorer
Re-registering Windows Explorer can sometimes fix issues related to the explorer.exe process.
- Open the Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Type the following command and press Enter: taskkill /im explorer.exe /f
- Wait for a few seconds and then type the following command and press Enter: start explorer.exe
Solution 9: Perform a Clean Boot
A Clean Boot can help you identify if a third-party software is causing the issue.
- Press the Win + R keys to open the Run dialog box.
- Type msconfig and press Enter.
- In the System Configuration window, click on the Services tab.
- Check the Hide all Microsoft services box.
- Click on Disable all to disable all third-party services.
Additional Tips to Prevent Windows Explorer Restarting
In addition to the solutions above, here are some additional tips to help prevent Windows Explorer from restarting:
- Regularly update your operating system: Make sure you’re running the latest updates for Windows 7 to ensure you have the latest security patches and bug fixes.
- Use strong antivirus software: Install reputable antivirus software and keep it updated to protect your system from malware infections.
- Be cautious when installing software: Only install software from trusted sources, and read user reviews and ratings before installing.
- Avoid overloading your system: Ensure you have sufficient system resources, such as RAM and CPU, to run your system smoothly.
Conclusion
Windows Explorer restarting can be a frustrating issue, but with the right solutions, you can fix it and get your system back to normal. Remember to try the simplest solutions first, and then move on to more advanced fixes if needed. By following the solutions and tips outlined in this article, you should be able to stop Windows Explorer from restarting on your Windows 7 system.
What is the Windows Explorer restarting loop?
The Windows Explorer restarting loop is a frustrating issue where the Windows Explorer process (explorer.exe) keeps crashes and restarts automatically, causing your desktop and taskbar to disappear and reappear repeatedly. This cycle can continue indefinitely, making it difficult to use your computer efficiently. The issue can be triggered by various factors, including corrupted system files, malware infections, or incompatible software.
When the Windows Explorer restarting loop occurs, you may experience symptoms such as a flashing taskbar, inconsistent desktop icons, and a general feeling of instability. In some cases, the issue may also be accompanied by error messages or beeps. If you’re experiencing this issue, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. Our article provides comprehensive fixes to help you break the cycle and restore your Windows Explorer to its normal functioning state.
What causes the Windows Explorer restarting loop?
The Windows Explorer restarting loop can be caused by a variety of factors, including corrupted system files, malfunctioning shell extensions, or incompatible software. In some cases, the issue may be triggered by a recent software installation or update that has disrupted the normal functioning of Windows Explorer. Additionally, malware infections or viruses can also cause the Windows Explorer restarting loop by corrupting critical system files or injecting malicious code into the explorer.exe process.
To resolve the issue, it’s essential to identify the root cause and apply the appropriate fix. This may involve running system file checker tools, disabling problematic shell extensions, or uninstalling incompatible software. Our article provides step-by-step instructions to help you troubleshoot and fix the Windows Explorer restarting loop, regardless of its cause.
How do I restart Windows Explorer?
To restart Windows Explorer, you can simply press the Ctrl + Shift + Esc keys to open the Task Manager, and then click on the “More details” button at the bottom of the window. In the Processes tab, locate the “Windows Explorer” process, right-click on it, and select “Restart.” Alternatively, you can also type “taskkill /f /im explorer.exe” in the Command Prompt and press Enter to force-kill the Windows Explorer process.
However, simply restarting Windows Explorer may not resolve the underlying issue causing the restarting loop. To break the cycle, you may need to apply additional fixes, such as running system file checker tools, updating your operating system, or disabling problematic shell extensions. Our article provides a comprehensive guide to help you troubleshoot and fix the Windows Explorer restarting loop.
How do I fix the Windows Explorer restarting loop?
To fix the Windows Explorer restarting loop, you can try a series of troubleshooting steps, including running system file checker tools, disabling shell extensions, and updating your operating system. You can also try restarting Windows Explorer in safe mode, disabling third-party themes, or performing a system restore to a previous point when the issue did not exist. Additionally, you can try running a virus scan to detect and remove any malware infections that may be causing the issue.
For more severe cases, you may need to take more drastic measures, such as reinstalling Windows Explorer or performing a system refresh. Our article provides a step-by-step guide to help you troubleshoot and fix the Windows Explorer restarting loop, including detailed instructions and screenshots to make the process easier.
Will restarting my computer fix the Windows Explorer restarting loop?
Restarting your computer may provide a temporary fix to the Windows Explorer restarting loop, but it’s unlikely to resolve the underlying issue causing the problem. In most cases, the issue will persist even after restarting your computer, and you’ll need to apply more targeted fixes to resolve the problem.
To save you time and frustration, our article provides a comprehensive guide to help you troubleshoot and fix the Windows Explorer restarting loop, including tips on how to identify the root cause of the issue and apply the appropriate fix.
Can I prevent the Windows Explorer restarting loop?
While it’s not possible to completely prevent the Windows Explorer restarting loop, you can take certain precautions to reduce the likelihood of the issue occurring. These include keeping your operating system and software up to date, avoiding incompatible software, and being cautious when installing new applications or themes.
Additionally, you can also take steps to maintain a healthy and stable system, such as running regular virus scans, updating your antivirus software, and avoiding suspicious downloads or attachments. By following these best practices, you can reduce the risk of the Windows Explorer restarting loop and other system issues.
What if none of the fixes work?
If none of the fixes work, you may need to take more drastic measures, such as reinstalling Windows Explorer or performing a system refresh. In some cases, you may need to seek professional help from a Windows expert or a computer technician.
Don’t worry – our article provides a comprehensive guide to help you troubleshoot and fix the Windows Explorer restarting loop, including tips on how to identify the root cause of the issue and apply the appropriate fix. We’re confident that you’ll be able to resolve the issue and get your Windows Explorer up and running smoothly again.