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FIX: Windows 10/11 File Explorer won’t refresh
4 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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There is an annoying issue that is affecting especiallyWindows 8.1, Windows 10 users and even yours truly – the thumbnails forpicturesand pdf files on theFle Explorerinterface don’t seem to refresh. We explore the issue and try to fix it.
A number ofWindows 8.1and Windows 10 users have reportedly been affected by some annoying issues regarding the fact that the thumbnails ofpicturesand pdf files, but also some other files, isn’t getting refreshed. This isn’t necessarily a big problem, but one that is rather annoying and it ruins your Windows experience, after all. Here’s what one of the affected users has been saying:
I have minor problem…. that is myexplorerwon’t refresh thepicturesthumbnail (and .pdf which won’t show the readerappsicon inside the .pdf file icons) even though other media like music and movies went well…..for thepictures….
SOLVED: Windows 10 File Explorer does not refresh
The solutions from below have been given by a moderator on theMicrosoftcommunity forums, so I trust he knows his business. But if you happen to know some working fixes, as well, do let us know by leaving your comment below, please.
1. Create a new user profile
2. Rebuild the Icon cache
If the above steps didn’t do it, try the following then:
3. Clean File Explorer history
Clearing your File Explorer history can help you to fix many issues affecting this Windows component. As a quick reminder, File Explorer keeps a list of recently modified files and folders and this may sometimes block various commands. Follow these steps to delete your File Explorer history:
4. Disable Quick Access
You can access recently opened and modified files and folders using the Quick Access feature. However, sometimes Quick access can cause various File Explorer issues. It may even prevent you from refreshing your File Explorer pictures, PDF thumbnails, files and folders.
To disable Quick Access, you need to openFile Explorer Options, go to Privacy and then simply uncheck the optionsShow recently used files in Quick accessandShow frequently used folders in Quick access. Hit Apply and OK.
For additional fixes, you can check out the troubleshooting guides listed below:
More about the topics:File Explorer,windows 10 fix,windows 8.1 tips
Radu Tyrsina
Radu Tyrsina has been a Windows fan ever since he got his first PC, a Pentium III (a monster at that time).
For most of the kids of his age, the Internet was an amazing way to play and communicate with others, but he was deeply impressed by the flow of information and how easily you can find anything on the web.
Prior to founding Windows Report, this particular curiosity about digital content enabled him to grow a number of sites that helped hundreds of millions reach faster the answer they’re looking for.
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