Applies ToWindows 11 Windows 10

Note: File Explorer is not the same tool as Microsoft Edge. To open Microsoft Edge, in the search box on the taskbar, type Microsoft Edge, and then select it from the results.

To open File Explorer in Windows 11, select File Explorer  on the taskbar or press the Windows logo key + E on your keyboard.

Here are some things to try if File Explorer won't open.

Select Start  > Settings  > Windows Update . Then select Check for updates. Install any available updates and restart your device if required.

Even if you don’t see updates that require restarting, doing so ensures that any pending updates are installed.

If you've tried the previous steps and File Explorer still isn't starting or opening, resetting your PC might help. To learn how, see Reset or reinstall Windows

If File Explorer doesn’t work more reliably after trying these steps, please send feedback through Feedback Hub so Microsoft can investigate potential issues.  

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