Starting Windows Explorer after you’ve killed it on Windows 11 might sound daunting, but it’s actually quite simple. All it takes is a few straightforward steps, and you’ll have it back up and running in no time. By following the detailed instructions below, you’ll be able to restart Windows Explorer, ensuring your desktop experience remains seamless and efficient.
How to Start Windows Explorer After Killing It in Windows 11
Restarting Windows Explorer will help bring back your taskbar and desktop icons if they’ve disappeared. Here’s how you can do it step by step.
Step 1: Open Task Manager
First, right-click on the taskbar and select “Task Manager” from the menu.
The Task Manager is a crucial tool for managing applications and processes on your computer. It not only allows you to end tasks but also to start new ones.
Step 2: Click on “File” and Select “Run New Task”
Next, go to the top of the Task Manager window, click “File,” and choose “Run new task.”
This option lets you manually start any application or process. It’s especially useful when you need to start something that isn’t currently running.
Step 3: Type “explorer.exe” and Press Enter
In the dialog that appears, type “explorer.exe” and hit Enter.
Typing “explorer.exe” initiates the process that runs Windows Explorer, which is responsible for your desktop and taskbar.
Step 4: Wait for Windows Explorer to Restart
Give it a moment for Windows Explorer to restart, and your desktop and taskbar should reappear.
This process usually takes only a few seconds. Your screen may flicker briefly as Explorer refreshes everything.
Step 5: Verify Everything is Working
Finally, check that your desktop, taskbar, and open windows are functioning properly.
If everything is working, you’re good to go. If not, you might need to repeat the process or look for other issues.
Once you’ve successfully restarted Windows Explorer, your desktop environment should be back to normal. Your taskbar and any open windows will reappear, allowing you to continue using your computer without interruption.
Tips for Starting Windows Explorer After Killing It in Windows 11
- Always ensure Task Manager is accessible, as it’s a powerful tool for managing processes.
- If the Task Manager doesn’t open with the taskbar, try pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
- Familiarize yourself with the command “explorer.exe” as it’s essential for restarting the process.
- Keep your system updated to minimize bugs that might require restarting Windows Explorer.
- Consider creating a desktop shortcut for Task Manager if you frequently need to access it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I don’t restart Windows Explorer?
If Windows Explorer isn’t restarted, your taskbar and desktop icons might disappear, making it difficult to navigate your computer.
Can I restart Windows Explorer without Task Manager?
Yes, you can use the command prompt to restart Windows Explorer by typing “taskkill /f /im explorer.exe” and then “start explorer.exe.”
Why did Windows Explorer stop working?
Windows Explorer might stop working due to software bugs, resource overload, or conflicts with other applications.
Is restarting Windows Explorer safe?
Yes, restarting Windows Explorer is safe and often necessary to resolve desktop and taskbar issues.
Do I need to restart my computer if Windows Explorer crashes?
Not necessarily. Restarting Windows Explorer using Task Manager usually resolves the issue without needing a full reboot.
Summary
- Open Task Manager.
- Click “File” and select “Run New Task.”
- Type “explorer.exe” and press Enter.
- Wait for Windows Explorer to restart.
- Verify everything is working.
Conclusion
Restarting Windows Explorer on Windows 11 is like hitting a refresh button for your desktop environment. If you’ve ever been frustrated by disappearing taskbars or missing desktop icons, knowing how to restart Explorer can save you from needless annoyance. By opening Task Manager and manually running “explorer.exe,” you have the power to quickly resolve these common issues.
Exploring further, you could delve into learning about other useful system commands or even customizing your Windows taskbar to enhance productivity. Restarting Explorer is just one of many ways to keep your Windows experience running smoothly.
Armed with this knowledge, you’re better prepared to tackle minor hiccups that may arise. Remember, restarting your computer isn’t always the only solution. Sometimes, a quick restart of Windows Explorer is all you need to set things right and keep your day moving.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.