In Windows, Explorer Restart typically refers to restarting the explorer.exe process. This process is responsible for the entire graphical user interface (GUI) of the operating system, including the taskbar, Start menu, desktop icons, and File Explorer windows. Restarting it is a quick troubleshooting step to fix freezing, lagging, or disappearing taskbars without having to reboot your entire computer. How to Restart Explorer.exe Method 1: Using Task Manager (Easiest) Open the Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc. Click More details if your Task Manager is in compact view.
Look for Windows Explorer in the list of processes. (If you have a folder window open, it may be near the top under “Apps”; otherwise, it is further down under “Windows processes”).
Right-click it and click Restart (or Restart task in Windows 11).
Your screen will briefly flash black and the taskbar will disappear and reappear as it reboots. Method 2: The Taskbar Shortcut (Windows 10 only) Hold down the Ctrl + Shift keys on your keyboard. Right-click on an empty space on your taskbar. Select Exit Explorer from the bottom of the context menu.
To restart it, open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc), go to File > Run new task, type explorer.exe, and click OK. Method 3: Using Command Prompt
Press Win + R to open the Run box, type cmd, and press Enter. Type taskkill /f /im explorer.exe and press Enter. Type start explorer.exe and press Enter. Why Restart Explorer? How to restart Windows Explorer process
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