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Fix: Explorer.exe not Starting on Windows Startup
Create a new user profile if you encounter this issue
5 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Have you ever experienced a blank screen when trying to log in to your computer? Although there may be several reasons for this, the major one is frequentlyExplorer.exe failing to launch on startup. The desktop andFile Explorer GUIare controlled by the Explorer.exe Windows service.
As a result, Windows Explorer not starting on startup will affect your wallpaper, icons, and taskbar, leaving you with a blank screen and only a cursor. Fortunately, we have compiled some potential fixes to troubleshoot the issue in this article.
Why is Windows Explorer not starting on startup?
There could be several reasons why Windows Explorer is not starting on Windows startup. Here are some possible causes:
Now that you know some of the possible reasons behind the Windows Explorer not starting on startup, the next section will provide you with simplified steps on how to fix the issue.
What can I do if the Explorer is not starting on Windows startup?
Before engaging in any troubleshooting or settings tweaks, you should consider observing the following preliminary checks:
Having confirmed the above checks, and if you still require further assistance, you can explore the advanced solutions provided below.
1. Set Explorer to start automatically on startup
Some users reported that having set Explorer.exe to start automatically on startup theblack screen errorsstopped. You can check it out too.
2. Perform a clean boot
Afterperforming a clean boot, now check if Windows Explorer starts properly. If it does, you can begin to enable services and startup items one after the other to identify the conflicting software.
3. Create a new user profile
If youruser profile is corrupted, it can trigger your Windows Explorer not starting on startup error.
4. Run the SFC tool
By running theSFC scanner, the Windows utility will identify and attempt to repair any corrupted system files found.
5. Perform a System Restore
If the issue started recently, you can try usingSystem Restoreto revert your computer to a previous state when explorer.exe was working fine.
If none of these solutions resolve the issue, it may be helpful to seek further assistance from Microsoft Support or other Windows support forums, as there could be more specific causes related to your system configuration.
For further assistance, if you encounter anexplorer.exe application error, work your way through any of the 8 fixes provided in this guide.
If you have any questions or suggestions, please let us know by using the comments section below.
More about the topics:File Explorer,startup apps
Loredana Harsana
Windows Software Expert
Loredana is a passionate writer with a keen interest in PC software and technology. She started off writing about mobile phones back when Samsung Galaxy S II was on top of the world and she fell in love with tech of all sorts.
Whenever she’s not at her work desk, you’ll find her enjoying refreshing tea flavors, spilling stories on paper, and listening to the radio.
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Loredana Harsana
Windows Software Expert
Loredana is a tech enthusiast who tackles mobility, privacy, and networking in easy-to follow guides for everyone.
