File Explorer is an essential tool for navigating and managing files and folders on Windows operating systems. However, users often encounter a frustrating issue where the File Explorer displays a “Working on it” message, causing delays and hindering productivity. In this article, we will explore the possible causes of this issue and provide effective troubleshooting steps to resolve it.
Understanding the “Working on it” Message
When you open File Explorer and see the “Working on it” message, it indicates that the application is experiencing a delay in loading or processing the requested files and folders. This delay can be caused by various factors, including system performance, network issues, or conflicts with third-party software.
Possible Causes and Solutions
1. Large File or Folder Size
If you are trying to access a file or folder with a large size, it may take longer for File Explorer to load and display its contents. To resolve this issue:
- Wait patiently for File Explorer to finish loading the file or folder.
- Consider optimizing the file or folder by compressing it or splitting it into smaller parts.
2. Network Issues
File Explorer may display the “Working on it” message if there are network connectivity problems. To troubleshoot network-related issues:
- Check your internet connection and ensure it is stable.
- Restart your router or modem to refresh the network connection.
- Disable any VPN or proxy settings that might be interfering with the network connection.
3. Third-Party Software Interference
Conflicts with third-party software can also cause delays in File Explorer. To identify and resolve such conflicts:
- Temporarily disable any recently installed software or antivirus programs.
- Update or reinstall any software that might be incompatible with File Explorer.
- Check for any conflicting shell extensions and disable them using the ShellExView tool.
4. System Performance Issues
If your system is experiencing performance issues, it can affect the responsiveness of File Explorer. To improve system performance:
- Close any unnecessary applications or processes running in the background.
- Perform a disk cleanup to remove temporary files and free up disk space.
- Upgrade your hardware components, such as RAM or storage, if they are outdated or insufficient.
Real-Life Examples
Let’s take a look at a couple of real-life examples where users encountered the “Working on it” message and successfully resolved the issue.
Example 1: John, a graphic designer, frequently works with large design files. He noticed that whenever he tried to open a folder containing these files, File Explorer would display the “Working on it” message for an extended period. After optimizing his files by compressing them, he noticed a significant improvement in File Explorer’s performance.
Example 2: Sarah, a software developer, recently installed a new antivirus program on her computer. Soon after, she started experiencing delays in File Explorer. Suspecting a conflict with the antivirus software, she temporarily disabled it and found that the “Working on it” message disappeared. She then updated the antivirus program to the latest version, which resolved the issue permanently.
Summary
The “Working on it” message in File Explorer can be frustrating, but with the right troubleshooting steps, you can resolve the issue and improve your productivity. By understanding the possible causes, such as large file sizes, network issues, third-party software interference, and system performance problems, you can take appropriate actions to address them. Remember to optimize your files, check your network connectivity, disable conflicting software, and improve system performance. By following these steps, you can overcome the “Working on it” message and enjoy a seamless File Explorer experience.
