Windows 10 Explorer is very slow when first opened/used

When you open or use Windows 10 Explorer for the first time, you may notice that it is quite slow. This can be frustrating, especially if you need to access your files quickly. In this article, we will explore some possible reasons for this slowness and provide solutions to help speed up Windows 10 Explorer.

Reasons for Windows 10 Explorer Slowness

There are several reasons why Windows 10 Explorer may be slow when first opened or used:

1. Startup Programs: If you have too many programs set to launch at startup, it can slow down your computer's overall performance, including Windows 10 Explorer. These programs consume system resources, leading to slower response times.
2. Outdated or Conflicting Drivers: Drivers are software programs that allow your computer's hardware to communicate with the operating system. Outdated or conflicting drivers can cause performance issues, including slow response times in Windows 10 Explorer.
3. Large Number of Files or Folders: If you have a large number of files or folders in a single directory, it can slow down Windows 10 Explorer. This is because Explorer needs to load and display information about each file or folder, which takes time.
4. Corrupted System Files: Corrupted system files can cause various issues, including slow performance in Windows 10 Explorer. These files can be damaged due to malware, improper shutdowns, or other reasons.
5. Insufficient System Resources: If your computer does not have enough RAM (Random Access Memory) or a slow hard drive, it can result in slow performance in Windows 10 Explorer.

Solutions to Speed Up Windows 10 Explorer

Now that we understand the possible reasons for Windows 10 Explorer's slowness, let's explore some solutions to speed it up:

1. Disable Unnecessary Startup Programs

Reducing the number of programs that launch at startup can significantly improve your computer's performance. To disable unnecessary startup programs:

1. Right-click on the taskbar and select "Task Manager".
2. In the Task Manager window, click on the "Startup" tab.
3. Select the programs you want to disable and click on the "Disable" button.

2. Update Drivers

Updating your drivers can help resolve compatibility issues and improve overall system performance. To update your drivers:

1. Press the Windows key + X and select "Device Manager".
2. In the Device Manager window, expand the categories and locate the hardware devices.
3. Right-click on a device and select "Update driver".
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to update the driver.
5. Repeat the process for other devices.

3. Organize Files and Folders

If you have a large number of files or folders in a single directory, consider organizing them into subdirectories. This will reduce the load on Windows 10 Explorer when accessing that directory.

4. Run System File Checker

The System File Checker (SFC) tool scans for and repairs corrupted system files. To run the SFC tool:

1. Press the Windows key + X and select "Command Prompt (Admin)".
2. In the Command Prompt window, type "sfc /scannow" and press Enter.
3. Wait for the scan to complete and follow any on-screen instructions.

5. Upgrade System Resources

If your computer is low on RAM or has a slow hard drive, upgrading these components can significantly improve performance. Consider adding more RAM or replacing your hard drive with a faster solid-state drive (SSD).

By following these solutions, you should be able to speed up Windows 10 Explorer and improve your overall user experience. If the slowness persists, it may be worth seeking further assistance from a professional technician.

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