6 Reasons Why File Explorer Keep Popping Up – Solved

File Explorer only pops up on your Windows whenever the Windows autoplay (autorun) option works. It is because the explorer is designed to locate files and drivers and only appears when any command is related to them.

There could be many reasons behind this random popping issue, including autoplay function, malware, background program trigger, faulty keyboard keys, etc.

Let’s discuss this issue thoroughly and gather all the possible solutions to resolve it. So, stick with us to make your computer error-free.

Why Does File Explorer Keep Popping Up? 

Here are the reasons why your File Explorer keep popping up randomly:

1. Windows AutoPlay Feature
2. Virus or Malware in PC
3. Specific Background Programs
4. Faulty Keyboard or Mouse
5. Shell Extension Conflict
6. Incorrect File Associations

Windows AutoPlay Feature

AutoPlay is a Windows characteristic that automatically runs an application or opens a document when you insert a removable drive or connect a new device. By default, AutoPlay is enabled on most Windows computers.

When you connect a device, Windows examines its contents and suggests different actions based on the types of files found. If you connect a USB drive containing snapshots, AutoPlay may prompt File Explorer to open and display the drive’s contents. However, AutoPlay may also malfunction or misbehave in some cases, causing File Explorer to open repeatedly for no apparent reason.

Virus or Malware in PC

A virus or malware infection could also be causing File Explorer to open randomly. It is because viruses and malware can now and again modify system files or create new techniques that can trigger File Explorer to open.

When your device is infected with a virus or malware, it may control various device files and settings, leading to sudden behavior, just like the spontaneous popping of File Explorer. Viruses and malware can modify system documents or create malicious processes that cause File Explorer to crash. 

They may additionally try to gain access to your documents, accumulate sensitive records, or carry out other malicious activities. In a few cases, the virus or malware may mainly target File Explorer to execute its malicious code or carry out its intended movements.

Specific Background Programs

Your laptop’s background program or service may trigger File Explorer to open randomly. It is because some programs and services can sometimes create new techniques that cause File Explorer to open.

Here are a number of the background programs that would cause File Explorer to open randomly:

• Antivirus or Anti-Malware Software Program 

You can check your computer for viruses and malware by using the antivirus or anti-malware software you have installed. This software can cause File Explorer to open at random.

• File-Syncing Applications

To synchronize your files, file-syncing applications such as Dropbox, Google Drive, and OneDrive can cause File Explorer to open in a random location on your computer.

• Other Programs

Other applications, including media players or document viewers, may also be triggering File Explorer to open randomly. These programs often auto-start whenever we open the related file. For instance, the media player starts whenever you play any audio or video file. 

Faulty Keyboard or Mouse

A defective keyboard or mouse could also be causing File Explorer to open randomly. It is because a few keyboards and mouse have buttons or keys that may be configured to open File Explorer. Some keyboards have dedicated keys that may be used to open File Explorer, the Windows key and the E key. 

If one of the keys is caught or malfunctioning, it can cause File Explorer to open randomly each time you press the key. If this type of button or key is caught or malfunctions, it can cause File Explorer to open randomly.

Shell Extension Conflict

Shell extensions are third-party software program components that combine with File Explorer to provide additional functionality. However, incompatible or poorly designed shell extensions can cause conflicts, leading to the File Explorer randomly doping up.

It is because shell extensions frequently want access to devise files and sources, and if a greater number of shell extensions are looking to get access to the same sources simultaneously, it is possible to cause conflict.

Incorrect File Associations

When you double-click a file, file associations determine which program should open. If record associations are misconfigured or corrupted, unintended applications like File Explorer may start unexpectedly.

File associations specify which software should be used to open which file types. If these associations are incorrectly configured or corrupted, it is possible that unexpected programs, such as File Explorer, will open when you double-click on a record.

How To Stop File Explorer From Opening Itself?

You can stop it by disabling AutoPlay, running the System File Checker (SFC scan), performing a virus scan, checking the Startup tab in Task Manager, updating your drivers, resetting File Explorer settings, and updating your drivers. In worst case scenario, you will need to reinstall the operating system.

Disable Windows AutoPlay Feature

AutoPlay is a function in Windows that automatically opens certain kinds of documents while you connect them to your computer. It may be handy, but it can also be annoying if you do not want File Explorer to pop up whenever you connect a new device.

To disable AutoPlay, you can open the Settings app. Click on Devices then click on AutoPlay. Under Use AutoPlay for all media and devices, uncheck the box. If you want to disable AutoPlay for unique devices, you could do so by deciding on the tool and then selecting the Take No Action alternative.

Run the SFC Device Scan

The System File Checker (SFC) device is an integrated Windows application that may scan for and repair corrupted system documents. The SFC device will test your laptop for corrupted system documents and try to restore them. File Explorer should stop shooting up if the SFC tool can restore the corrupted documents.

To perform an SFC scan, open the start menu, type “CMD,” and right-click the command prompt. Now select “Run as administrator” from the list. Once the Command Prompt is open, type “SFC /scannow” and enter. You will have to wait until the Windows completes the process.

Run a Virus Scan

Viruses occasionally cause surprising behavior on your laptop, including starting File Explorer without your permission. Running a virus scan is a great step in troubleshooting this difficulty.

Ensure you have a reliable antivirus software program hooked up to your computer. Update your antivirus software program to ensure it has the latest virus definitions. Open your antivirus software and look for an option to run a complete device scan. Start the scan and permit the antivirus software program to finish its procedure. 

Check the Startup Tab in Task Manager

One possibility is that a program or service is ready to automatically open File Explorer while it is still being made. You can check the Startup tab in Task Manager to see if any applications or services are set to open File Explorer. If you do not need to use any of the applications or services that start up automatically when you launch File Explorer, you can disable them.

Press “Ctrl+Alt+Delete” button at the same tie and then select “Task Manager.” Once in the Task Manager, navigate to “Start up Tab.” Here you will find all the startup apps. Click on the app you want to disable and then press “Disable” from the right lower corner.

Update your Drivers

Updating your drivers is a great way to keep your PC running smoothly and prevent troubles like File Explorer from popping up abruptly. You can manually replace your drivers by downloading the most recent ones from the manufacturer’s website. Or, you can use a driver update tool to routinely update your drivers.

Conclusion

When File Explorer keeps popping up randomly on your pc, it may be a frustrating experience. This problem has numerous possible causes, including AutoPlay settings, viruses or malware infections, background programs, faulty keyboard or mouse, shell extension conflicts, and incorrect file associations. 

To resolve the hassle, you may attempt disabling AutoPlay, running the System File Checker tool, performing a virus scan, checking the Startup tab in Task Manager, updating your drivers, resetting File Explorer settings, updating video drivers, disabling third-party extensions, checking for updates, running a smooth boot, or creating a new account.

Restarting your laptop can regularly solve temporary glitches and refresh system techniques, which may help solve the problem. Following these troubleshooting steps, you can address the hassle of File Explorer popping up randomly and regain easy operation of your computer.