Windows File Explorer Keeps Asking to Open File Instead of Going to Address: A Guide

Abstract: Having trouble with Windows File Explorer repeatedly asking to open a file instead of going to the specified address? This article provides a helpful guide to resolve the issue. Learn about potential causes and easy solutions to get File Explorer functioning normally again. Read more to find out.

Created: 2024-09-25 by UserComp.com Editors

Introduction

In this article, we will discuss the common issue of Windows File Explorer repeatedly asking for permission to open a file instead of directly going to the specified address in Windows 10 x64 Pro. We will provide a comprehensive guide on how to troubleshoot and resolve this problem.

Understanding the Issue

The issue occurs when you enter a folder destination address in the address bar of Windows File Explorer. Instead of going directly to the specified folder, File Explorer highlights the inputted address, deletes it, and restores the current destination.

Possible Causes

There are several possible causes for this issue, including:

Corrupted User Profile
Damaged System Files
Incorrect File Associations

Resolution

Method 1: Create a New User Profile

A corrupted user profile may cause this issue. To resolve it, create a new user profile and check if File Explorer behaves correctly.



Press Windows key + I to open Settings
Click on Accounts
Click on Family & other users
Click on Add someone else to this PC
Follow the on-screen instructions to create a new user profile
Log in using the new user profile and test File Explorer

Method 2: Run System File Checker (SFC) and Disk Cleanup

Damaged system files can also cause this issue. Use the System File Checker (SFC) tool to scan for and repair corrupted system files:



Press Windows key + X and select Command Prompt (Admin) or PowerShell (Admin)
Type the following command and press Enter: sfc /scannow
Restart your computer
Additionally, run Disk Cleanup to free up disk space:

Press Windows key + E to open File Explorer
Right-click on your system drive (usually C:) and select Properties
Click on Disk Cleanup
Select Clean up system files
Check all the boxes and click OK

Method 3: Reset File Associations

Incorrect file associations may cause File Explorer to misbehave. Reset file associations to their default values:



Press Windows key + I to open Settings
Click on Apps
Click on Default apps
Scroll down and click on Reset under Reset to the Microsoft recommended defaults

The Windows File Explorer repeatedly asking for permission to open a file instead of directly going to the specified address issue in Windows 10 x64 Pro can be caused by a corrupted user profile, damaged system files, or incorrect file associations. To resolve the issue, you can create a new user profile, run System File Checker (SFC) and Disk Cleanup, or reset file associations.

References

Tags: Windows File Explorer Troubleshooting

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