Fixing File Explorer Bugs in Windows 10

File Explorer is an essential tool in Windows 10, allowing users to manage files and folders efficiently. However, users often report various bugs and glitches that disrupt its functionality. Common issues include menu misalignment, menus appearing outside the screen area, and frequent crashes or freezing.

If you’ve been experiencing these problems, this guide will help you understand the causes and how to fix them effectively.

Common Reasons for File Explorer Bugs

Before getting into the solutions, it’s essential to know why File Explorer bugs occur. Below are some of the most common causes:

Outdated Windows Version: An outdated version of Windows can lead to compatibility issues, resulting in File Explorer glitches.

Corrupted System Files: Damaged or corrupt system files can directly affect the stability and functionality of File Explorer.

Faulty File Explorer Settings: Misconfigured settings or excessive cache build-up can cause irregular behavior.

Conflicting Third-Party Software: Some third-party applications or extensions may interfere with File Explorer’s normal functioning.

Graphics Driver Issues: Outdated or incompatible graphics drivers can also result in display issues such as menu misalignment.

7 Ways to Fix File Explorer Bugs in Windows 10

If you’re dealing with File Explorer bugs like menu misalignment or glitches, here are the best ways to resolve the issue. Each solution is detailed to ensure you understand the steps and their purpose.

Update Windows to the Latest Version

Outdated software often causes glitches. Updating Windows ensures your system has the latest fixes and features.

Steps to fix:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Navigate to Update & Security > Windows Update.
3. Click Check for updates and install any available updates.
4. Restart your computer and check if File Explorer is working correctly.

Restart File Explorer

Restarting File Explorer can resolve temporary glitches or bugs.

Steps to fix:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Locate Windows Explorer under the Processes tab.
3. Right-click it and select Restart.
4. Test File Explorer to see if the issue persists.

Clear File Explorer Cache

An overloaded cache can cause File Explorer to misbehave. Clearing the cache may resolve these issues.

Steps to fix:

1. Open File Explorer and click the three-dotted vertical lines.
2. In the General tab, click Clear under the Privacy section.
3. Press OK and restart File Explorer.

Run System File Checker (SFC) Tool

The SFC tool scans and repairs corrupted system files that might affect File Explorer.

Steps to fix:

1. Type cmd in the Windows search bar.
2. Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
3. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
4. Wait for the scan to complete and follow any on-screen instructions.

Update Graphics Drivers

Outdated drivers can cause display glitches, such as menu misalignment.

Steps to fix:

1. Open Device Manager by pressing Win + X and selecting it from the menu.
2. Expand the Display Adapters section.
3. Right-click your graphics card and choose Update driver.
4. Follow the prompts to complete the update.

Consider using a third-party tool like Fortect to streamline the process of identifying and updating outdated or corrupted drivers.

Fortect is a comprehensive PC optimization tool that includes a driver updater feature. With the premium version, the software automatically scans your system to detect outdated or faulty drivers and updates them securely within minutes, effectively resolving issues such as File Explorer glitches.

If you’re hesitant to invest in the premium version immediately, Fortect offers a free trial. This allows you to manually update selected drivers and experience its functionality firsthand before committing to a subscription.

Download and install Fortect now.

Reset File Explorer Settings

Resetting File Explorer to its default settings can eliminate misconfigurations causing bugs.

Steps to fix:

1. Open File Explorer and click the View tab.
2. Select Options, then choose Change folder and search options.
3. In the Folder Options window, go to the View tab.
4. Click Restore Defaults and press OK.

Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot can help identify if third-party software is causing the problem.

Steps to fix:

1. Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
2. In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
3. Check Hide all Microsoft services and click Disable all.
4. Go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
5. Turn off all startup items, close Task Manager, and restart your PC.

Conclusion

File Explorer is a vital part of Windows 10, and dealing with bugs like menu misalignment or unexpected glitches can be frustrating. Following the abovementioned solutions, you can resolve these issues and restore File Explorer’s functionality. 

Always ensure your system is up-to-date and free from conflicting software to minimize the chances of encountering such problems in the future.