Where is Windows Explorer exe? This is a common question among Windows users, especially those who are encountering issues with their file explorer. Windows Explorer, also known as File Explorer, is a key component of the Windows operating system, providing users with a graphical user interface to navigate and manage files and folders on their computer. However, locating the Windows Explorer executable file, which is the “Windows Explorer exe,” can sometimes be a bit of a challenge. In this article, we will explore the importance of this file, its typical location, and how to find it if you’re unable to locate it on your system.
Windows Explorer exe is essentially the executable file that powers the File Explorer application. It is responsible for launching the file explorer and allowing users to interact with their files and folders. The location of this file can vary depending on the version of Windows you are using and the specific configuration of your system.
By default, the Windows Explorer exe file is typically found in the following locations:
1. C:\Program Files (x86)\Windows Explorer: This is the most common location for the Windows Explorer exe file on 64-bit versions of Windows.
2. C:\Program Files\Windows Explorer: This location is for the 32-bit version of Windows Explorer.
3. C:\Windows\System32: This directory also contains the Windows Explorer exe file, but it is less common.
If you’re unable to find the Windows Explorer exe file in these locations, there are a few steps you can take to locate it:
1. Use the Search Function:
– Open the Start menu and type “Windows Explorer exe” in the search bar.
– The search function should display the location of the file in the search results.
2. Use the Command Prompt:
– Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
– Type “cmd” and press Enter to open the Command Prompt.
– In the Command Prompt, type “dir /s Windows Explorer.exe” and press Enter.
– This command will search your entire system for the Windows Explorer exe file and list its location.
3. Use the File Explorer:
– Open File Explorer and navigate to the directories mentioned above.
– If the file is not in these locations, you can click on the “View” tab and select “Options” to open the Folder Options dialog box.
– In the View tab, check the box for “Show hidden files, folders, and drives” and click “Apply” and “OK”.
– This will make any hidden files, including the Windows Explorer exe, visible in your File Explorer.
It’s important to note that if the Windows Explorer exe file is missing or corrupted, it can lead to various issues with the file explorer, such as the application not opening or not functioning correctly. In such cases, you may need to repair your Windows installation or use system restore points to revert to a previous state where the file was intact.
In conclusion, while finding the Windows Explorer exe file may seem like a daunting task, it is a straightforward process once you know where to look. Whether you’re troubleshooting a problem with File Explorer or simply curious about its location, following the steps outlined in this article should help you locate the Windows Explorer exe file on your system.
