Restart Explorer Command Line Jun 2026

Run this in any (CMD) window: taskkill /f /im explorer.exe & start explorer.exe Quick Technical Guide: Restarting explorer.exe 1. Using Command Prompt (CMD)

To restart Windows Explorer via the command line, use the taskkill /f /im explorer.exe && start explorer.exe command, which forcefully terminates the process and immediately relaunches it. This is a common troubleshooting step for resolving a frozen taskbar, disappearing icons, or sluggish system performance without requiring a full computer reboot. Lenovo +3 Command Summary Table Tool Primary Command Effect Command Prompt taskkill /f /im explorer.exe && start explorer.exe Kills and immediately restarts the process. PowerShell Stop-Process -Name explorer -Force; Start-Process explorer.exe Standard PowerShell syntax for a clean restart. PowerShell (Short) kill -n explorer A quicker shortcut command in PowerShell. Detailed Methods 1. Using Command Prompt (CMD) The standard method involves two sequential commands. Using restart explorer command line

The restart explorer command is a Windows command-line utility that allows users to restart the Windows Explorer process, also known as explorer.exe . This process is responsible for managing the Windows desktop, including the taskbar, Start menu, and file explorer. Run this in any (CMD) window: taskkill /f /im explorer

There are several reasons why a user may need to restart Windows Explorer: Lenovo +3 Command Summary Table Tool Primary Command

It refreshes the system tray, taskbar, and file folders.