How to Restart Windows Explorer Without Rebooting Computer

Press .Ctrl+⇧ Shift+Esc., Click the .Processes tab., Click the "Image Name" column header to sort the processes alphabetically., Select .explorer.exe from the list., Click .End Process button., Click "File" and select "New Task (Run...)"., Type...

7 Steps 1 min read Medium

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Step 1: Press .Ctrl+⇧ Shift+Esc.

    This will open the Task Manager.
  2. Step 2: Click the .Processes tab.

    This will display a list of all of the processes currently running on your computer. , This will make it easier to find explorer.exe , It's easiest to find if the list is in alphabetic order. , Confirm that you want to end the process.

    Windows Explorer will be closed.

    Your task bar and desktop will disappear, and any open Explorer windows will be closed. , This will open the Run window. , The Windows Explorer interface will restart.

    Your task bar will return, as well as your desktop and icons.

    Any Explorer windows that were previously opened will not be reopened.
  3. Step 3: Click the "Image Name" column header to sort the processes alphabetically.

  4. Step 4: Select .explorer.exe from the list.

  5. Step 5: Click .End Process button.

  6. Step 6: Click "File" and select "New Task (Run...)".

  7. Step 7: Type .explorer and press ↵ Enter.

Detailed Guide

This will open the Task Manager.

This will display a list of all of the processes currently running on your computer. , This will make it easier to find explorer.exe , It's easiest to find if the list is in alphabetic order. , Confirm that you want to end the process.

Windows Explorer will be closed.

Your task bar and desktop will disappear, and any open Explorer windows will be closed. , This will open the Run window. , The Windows Explorer interface will restart.

Your task bar will return, as well as your desktop and icons.

Any Explorer windows that were previously opened will not be reopened.

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Anna White

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