How to Uninstall Explorer in Windows 10
Windows 10 is a robust operating system that offers a wide range of features and functionalities. However, there might be situations where you need to uninstall the Windows Explorer, which is the default file manager in Windows. Whether you’re experiencing issues with Explorer or looking to streamline your system, this article will guide you through the process of uninstalling Explorer in Windows 10.
Understanding Windows Explorer
Before diving into the uninstallation process, it’s essential to understand what Windows Explorer is. Windows Explorer, also known as File Explorer, is a file manager that allows users to navigate, manage, and organize files and folders on their computer. It provides a graphical user interface (GUI) for accessing files, folders, and storage devices.
Why Uninstall Windows Explorer?
There are several reasons why you might want to uninstall Windows Explorer in Windows 10. Some common reasons include:
1. Performance issues: If Windows Explorer is causing your system to slow down, uninstalling it might help improve performance.
2. Customization: You might want to use a third-party file manager that offers more advanced features or a different user interface.
3. Troubleshooting: If you encounter a bug or issue with Windows Explorer, uninstalling it can help resolve the problem.
Steps to Uninstall Windows Explorer in Windows 10
To uninstall Windows Explorer in Windows 10, follow these steps:
1. Open the Command Prompt as an administrator:
– Press the Windows key and type “cmd” in the search bar.
– Right-click on “Command Prompt” and select “Run as administrator.”
2. Enter the following command to stop the Windows Explorer process:
– `taskkill /IM explorer.exe /F`
3. Navigate to the following directory using the `cd` command:
– `cd C:\Windows\System32`
4. Rename the “explorer.exe” file to something else, such as “explorer_old.exe”:
– `ren explorer.exe explorer_old.exe`
5. Rename the “iexplore.exe” file to something else, such as “iexplore_old.exe”:
– `ren iexplore.exe iexplore_old.exe`
6. Rename the “shell32.dll” file to something else, such as “shell32_old.dll”:
– `ren shell32.dll shell32_old.dll`
7. Rename the “shell32.dll.mui” file to something else, such as “shell32_old.dll.mui”:
– `ren shell32.dll.mui shell32_old.dll.mui`
8. Rename the “shell32.dll.manifest” file to something else, such as “shell32_old.dll.manifest”:
– `ren shell32.dll.manifest shell32_old.dll.manifest`
9. Restart your computer to apply the changes.
Reinstalling Windows Explorer
If you later decide to reinstall Windows Explorer, follow these steps:
1. Open the Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Navigate to the “C:\Windows\System32” directory using the `cd` command.
3. Rename the files you previously renamed back to their original names:
– `ren explorer_old.exe explorer.exe`
– `ren iexplore_old.exe iexplore.exe`
– `ren shell32_old.dll shell32.dll`
– `ren shell32_old.dll.mui shell32.dll.mui`
– `ren shell32_old.dll.manifest shell32.dll.manifest`
4. Restart your computer to apply the changes.
Conclusion
Uninstalling Windows Explorer in Windows 10 is a straightforward process, but it’s crucial to understand the implications of doing so. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can successfully uninstall and reinstall Windows Explorer as needed. However, always proceed with caution and consider seeking professional assistance if you’re unsure about the process.
