How to Enable Separate Process for Windows 11 File Explorer
You enable separate processes for Windows 11 File Explorer to prevent a single tab crash from affecting your entire system.
File Explorer is the application you use to browse and manage files and folders on your PC. Running each File Explorer window in its own process isolates potential crashes.
By default, all File Explorer windows share a single explorer.exe process. This means if one folder window freezes, all your open File Explorer windows might go down with it, forcing a restart of the entire explorer.exe process.
With this setting enabled, you can keep your file management stable. You can even assign a unique Process ID (PID) to each instance, making it easier to identify and manage them.
Enable separate processes for File Explorer by opening Folder Options, clicking the View tab, and checking “Launch folder windows in a separate process.” This prevents one crashed window from affecting others.
Launch a File Explorer folder with a separate process
As mentioned, users can enable a feature in File Explorer. This launches each window with a separate process. One window can’t bring down other processes running unique windows.
Here’s how to do it.
- Open the File Explorer Folder Options.
- Click on the View tab.
- Check the box next to “Launch folder windows in a separate process” to enable it . To disable it , uncheck the box .
- Click OK to save your changes and exit.
Launch File Explorer window in a separate process using Windows Registry Editor
Another way to enable or disable launching File Explorer windows in a separate process is to use the Windows Registry Editor.
Remember to back up your registry before making any changes. Or create a System Restore point as a precaution.
- Open the Windows Registry and navigate to the folder key path below.
Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced - Right-click Advanced > New > DWORD (32-bit) Value and name the new DWORD SeparateProcess.
- ⚠️ ADMIN PRIVILEGES REQUIRED — Double-click SeparateProcess and change the value to 1 to enable launching windows in a separate process in File Explorer.
- Enter 0 to disable the feature.
You may have to reboot your computer to apply the changes.
That should do it!
Summary
Why enable separate processes? Launching folder windows in separate processes prevents one unresponsive window from crashing all your other File Explorer windows.
What happens when done? Each File Explorer window runs on its own. If one window stops responding, the others keep working normally.
Key points to remember:
- Process Isolation: Launching folder windows in separate processes prevents one unresponsive window from crashing others.
- Easy Configuration: You can easily change this setting through the File Explorer Folder Options or the Windows Registry Editor.
- Backup Precaution: Always back up your registry or create a System Restore point before making changes to the registry.
- Enhanced Stability: This feature can improve stability and responsiveness when navigating files and folders.
- Reboot Required: Changes may require a reboot, ensuring the settings are applied correctly.
Should I enable launch folder Windows in a separate process?
the main reason i would suggest turning this on is so that if you have a folder window open which stops responding and you kill the task, it won't/shouldn't take the main explorer.exe with it (meaning your desktop won't be inaccessible for a few moments while windows restarts it).
How to split File Explorer in 🪟 Windows 11?
In the archive settings window you'll see an option called split to volume bytes here type the size you want for each chunk. For instance if you want smaller files of 100 megbytes. Each type 100m.
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Richard
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Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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