File Explorer is one of those Windows apps that you cant do without.

Its the default file management tool on your rig that lets you browse and move files and folders around.

But what if File Explorer keeps opening automatically on your Windows computer for no apparent reason?

A woman using a Windows laptop

Typically, you might resolve issues with the Windows Explorer process by simply restarting it.

Hence, you should try that first.

Once complete the above steps, your taskbar will disappear for a brief moment before reappearing.

restarting windows explorer from the Task Manager

After that, verify if the issue is still there.

Clear File Explorer History

Windows File Explorer saves all your searches and recent activities to improve your experience.

If this data somehow gets corrupted, it could cause File Explorer to open by itself in Windows.

File Explorer Options Window

If thats the case, clearing File Explorer history should help.

Here are the steps for the same.

you might also run this tool manually if apps like File Explorer keep opening unexpectedly on your gear.

System and Security Window

To spin up the System Maintenance troubleshooter on Windows:

5.

These tools will scan your machine for damaged or missing system files and attempt to repair them.

You could evenmake use of Microsoft Defender’s offline scan featurefor a deep scrub.

Check for Windows Update

If any threats are found, apply the recommended fixes to remove them.

After that, File Explorer should not open on its own.

Install Windows Updates

Several users on forums reported experiencing this issue after a Windows update.

If the issue is indeed sparked by a bug, it shouldnt take long before Microsoft releases a fix.

It’s a good idea to check your system for any pending system updates and install them right away.

PressWin + Ito launch the tweaks app and navigate to theWindows updatetab.

Click theCheck for updatesbutton on your right.

Check our guide onhow to perform a clean boot in Windowsfor detailed instructions on this.

If not, you may have to boot Windows in a clean boot state to investigate the root cause.