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File Explorer Windows Keep Opening in Foreground [Windows 11 Fix]
Don’t let File Explorer steal the focus
6 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Key notes
File Explorer remains one of the most effective file managers in Windows, but problems with it are not uncommon. Recently, a large number of users noticed that the Windows 11 File Explorer jumps to the foreground without any manual trigger.
This could happen while you are browsing the web, running other applications, or playing a game. But remember, the Windows Explorer only appears when it’s actively running on the PC. If there are no active sessions, the explorer window won’t open automatically.
What causes File Explorer windows to open in the foreground?
How do I stop File Explorer windows from going to the foreground on Windows 11?
Before we move to the slightly complex solutions, here are a few quick ones to try:
If none work, head to the fixes listed next.
1. Update Windows 11
2. Uninstall the latest Windows update
When an update with a patch is not available or doesn’t prevent Windows 11 Explorer from opening in the foreground,uninstall the updatethat triggered the problem in the first place. Remember, you may have to remove a few before finding the culprit.
3. Disable autoplay
4. Change the File Explorer options
5. Repair the corrupted system files
6. Change the wallpaper personalization settings
7. Perform a clean boot
When Windows Explorer opens in the foreground on Windows 11, a clean boot will help identify whether the problem lies with a background application or service (when the issue disappears), or if it’s a bug in the OS (when the issue is present).
In case it’s the former, start by enabling the third-party services and applications one at a time unless the problem reappears. And when it does, the process enabled last is the underlying cause. Keep the service disabled oruninstall the app, as the case may be, until Microsoft releases a fix.
Additional tips for preventing future issues with File Explorer windows
Based on our research, the problem with Windows 11 Explorer automatically coming to the foreground is linked to a bug in the OS, but we can’t negate the possibility of third-party conflicts. So make sure to verify all aspects, and before you know it, the issue will be gone for good!
As a last resort, you could always ditch the built-in Windows Explorer and switch to auser-friendly File Manager for Windows 11. If you don’t, trycustomizing the File Explorerand get tasks done quickly!
For any queries or to share what worked for you, drop a comment below.
More about the topics:bugs,File Explorer,Windows 11
Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim has always been fond of technology, be it scrolling through the settings on his iPhone, Android device, or Windows PC. He’s specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
Long-time Windows user, Kazim is ready to provide a solution for your every software & hardware error on Windows 11, Windows 10 and any previous iteration. He’s also one of our experts in Networking & Security.
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Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim is specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
Reviewed byAlex Serban
