A recent Windows 11 update is causing significant problems with File Explorer, the operating system’s core file management tool, according to user reports and online forums. Users are reporting a range of issues, from slow performance and freezing to complete crashes, rendering file management difficult and frustrating.
The problems appear to be widespread, affecting users across different hardware configurations. Microsoft has acknowledged the issue in a statement, saying they are investigating the reports and working on a fix. However, no specific timeline has been given for a resolution.
Users began reporting problems shortly after the release of the latest Windows 11 update, identified as KB5029351. Complaints surfaced on various platforms, including Reddit, Microsoft’s support forums, and social media. Many users describe File Explorer becoming unresponsive, often requiring a system restart to temporarily resolve the issue.
One user on Reddit, u/TechyGuy123, shared their experience: “Since the update, File Explorer takes forever to load folders. Sometimes it just freezes completely, and I have to kill the process. It’s making it impossible to get any work done.” Similar complaints are common across online forums, with users expressing frustration over the degraded performance of a fundamental tool.
The issues aren’t limited to just slow performance. Some users are reporting File Explorer crashes, leading to data loss in some cases. Others describe graphical glitches and display errors within the file management system. A few users have even reported the “blue screen of death” (BSOD) after attempting to use File Explorer following the update.
Microsoft’s official statement acknowledges the reports but remains vague about the cause. “We are aware of some users experiencing issues with File Explorer after installing the latest Windows 11 update. We are actively investigating these reports and will provide an update as soon as possible,” the statement reads.
The lack of a clear explanation or a firm timeline for a fix has further fueled user frustration. Many are questioning the quality control process at Microsoft, especially given the critical nature of File Explorer.
Some users have attempted workarounds, including uninstalling the problematic update. However, this is not a practical solution for everyone, as it may remove other important security patches and features. Others have tried resetting File Explorer settings or running system file checks, with varying degrees of success.
The situation highlights the challenges of software updates. While updates are intended to improve performance and security, they can sometimes introduce unexpected problems. This incident underscores the importance of thorough testing before releasing updates to the public.
For now, many Windows 11 users are left with a compromised File Explorer experience. They await a timely resolution from Microsoft, hoping that the fix will address the core issues without introducing further complications. The company’s response and the speed of the fix will be crucial in restoring user confidence in the Windows 11 platform.
The impact of this issue extends beyond individual users. Businesses that rely heavily on file management may experience productivity losses. The longer the problem persists, the greater the potential disruption. This incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between introducing new features and maintaining the stability of core system components. Microsoft’s handling of this situation will be closely watched by the tech community and Windows users alike.
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