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How to Fix "explorer.exe - Application Error (0xe0434e49)"

Simple Steps to Fix the Problem

1. Restart Windows Explorer

  • Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  • Find Windows Explorer under "Processes" > Right-click > Restart.
Why? This often resolves temporary glitches in the file explorer.

2. Run Windows Update

  • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
  • Click Check for updates and install all available updates.
Why? Microsoft frequently patches known system errors through updates.

3. Scan for Corrupted System Files

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator (Right-click Start > Command Prompt (Admin)).
  • Type the following commands one at a time, pressing Enter after each: sfc /scannow dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth
  • Restart your PC after completion.
Why? These tools repair damaged Windows system files.

4. Check for Faulty Shell Extensions

  • Download and run ShellExView.
  • Sort by "Company" and disable all non-Microsoft extensions (Right-click > Disable).
  • Restart your PC and check if the error persists.
Why? Third-party shell extensions often cause explorer.exe crashes.

5. Update Graphics Drivers

  • Press Win + X > Device Manager > Expand Display adapters.
  • Right-click your GPU > Update driver > Search automatically.
Why? Outdated display drivers can interfere with explorer.exe.

6. Perform a Clean Boot

  • Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  • Go to the Services tab > Check Hide all Microsoft services > Click Disable all.
  • Switch to the Startup tab > Click Open Task Manager > Disable all startup items.
  • Restart your PC.
Why? Identifies if background apps are causing the conflict.

Advanced Solutions

7. Check Event Viewer for Details

  • Press Win + X > Event Viewer > Windows Logs > Application.
  • Look for recent "Error" entries related to explorer.exe.
Note the details for further troubleshooting.

8. Reset Windows Explorer Settings

  • Open File Explorer > View > Options > Change folder and search options.
  • Click Restore Defaults > Apply > OK.

9. Create a New User Profile

  • Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users > Add someone else to this PC.
  • Log in with the new account to test if the error persists.
Why? Corrupted user profiles can cause system errors.

What Causes This Error?

  • Corrupted system files
  • Conflicting shell extensions (e.g., from third-party software)
  • Outdated drivers
  • Malware infections

Prevention Tips

  • ✔ Keep Windows and drivers updated
  • ✔ Avoid installing unreliable shell extensions
  • ✔ Regularly scan for malware
  • ✔ Create system restore points before major changes
If the error continues:
  • Consider a Windows Repair Install (keeps your files)
  • Use System Restore to revert to a stable state
  • Back up data and perform a clean Windows installation

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