Fix Explorer.EXE Error: This file does not have an app associated with it in Windows

Fix Explorer.EXE Error – This File Does Not Have an App Associated With It (Windows 10/11)

Fix Explorer.EXE Error: This file does not have an app associated with it in Windows

If you’re a Windows user, you may have come across the error message:

Explorer.EXE – This file does not have an app associated with it for performing this action. Please install an app or, if one is already installed, create an association in the Default Apps Settings page.

This issue usually appears when trying to open File Explorer, folders, or drives. The problem is linked to broken registry entries, corrupted system files, or misconfigured default apps. In this guide, we’ll explain why this error happens and provide step-by-step solutions to fix Explorer.EXE errors in Windows 10/11.

Table of Contents

Why Does the Explorer.EXE Error Happen?

• Corrupted registry entries related to File Explorer.
• Incorrect file associations.
• Missing or damaged system files.
• Malware that altered Explorer settings.
• Improper or incomplete Windows updates.

Quick Fixes for Explorer.EXE Error

1. Restart File Explorer from Task Manager

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Find Windows Explorer in the list.
3. Right-click → Restart.
4. If missing, go to File → Run new task, type explorer.exe, and press Enter.

2. Reset Default Apps

1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to Apps → Default apps.
3. Scroll down and click Reset to Microsoft defaults.

3. Repair Registry for Explorer.EXE

Sometimes the registry entry for Explorer is broken. You can fix it with a .reg file.

1. Open Notepad and paste the following code:

Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder\shell\open\command]
@="explorer.exe %1"

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Drive\shell\open\command]
@="explorer.exe %1"

2. Save it as fix_explorer.reg and double-click to merge.
3. Restart your PC.

4. Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Corrupted system files can also cause this error.

sfc /scannow
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

These commands repair damaged Windows files and restore Explorer functionality.

5. Advanced Fix: Restore Full Explorer Registry

If the issue persists, restore all Explorer-related registry keys.

Windows Registry Editor Version 5.00

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\exefile\shell\open\command]
@="\"%1\" %*"

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder\shell\open\command]
@="explorer.exe %1"

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Directory\shell\open\command]
@="explorer.exe %1"

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Drive\shell\open\command]
@="explorer.exe %1"

Save it as explorer_full_fix.reg, merge it, and restart.

6. Check for Malware

Run a full system scan using Windows Security or Malwarebytes to ensure no malware has modified system settings.

7. Repair or Reinstall Windows (Last Resort)

• Use Windows Repair Install to keep files and apps while repairing system files.
• If needed, use Reset this PC under Settings → System → Recovery.

FAQs About Explorer.EXE Error

What does “This file does not have an app associated with it” mean?

It means Windows doesn’t know which program should open a specific action, usually due to broken registry entries.

Will resetting registry fix my files?

Yes, it restores default Windows behavior without deleting personal files.

Can malware cause Explorer.EXE errors?

Yes, some malware modifies system associations. Always run a full system scan.

Is reinstalling Windows necessary?

Only if registry fixes and system scans don’t solve the issue.

Conclusion

The Explorer.EXE error in Windows can be frustrating, but it’s usually fixable with registry fixes, default app resets, or system file repair. Start with the simpler methods like restarting Explorer or resetting default apps, and move to registry fixes or SFC/DISM if the problem persists. By following the steps above, you can restore normal functionality and prevent future Explorer issues.