A yellow exclamation mark in a blank message box popping up during the time of startup really annoys any user. Basically, this is related to explorer.exe and disturbs the normal functioning of your computer. Here on Outbyte is a detailed guide to understand and resolve this problem effectively.
What is Explorer.exe Blank Error with Exclamation Mark?
Explorer.exe is an integral part of the management running the Windows system, its files, taskbars, and desktops. The usual blank message box means, by definition, either system file corruption, a conflict with some software, or malware interference. Let’s try to find the source first.
How to Fix Explorer.exe Blank Error with Exclamation Mark at Startup
Below are some ways to resolve the explorer.exe blank error with exclamation mark at startup. You need not try everything we listed here. You may work your way down the list until you find a solution that works for you.
Solution #1: Use System Restore
If the error is caused by a missing file entry in the Windows Registry, you can try fixing it with System Restore—provided you’ve created a restore point. If you have, follow these steps:
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
- Type
regedit.exeand press Enter to launch the Registry Editor. - Navigate to:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Windows. - Double-click Load, and clear the value by leaving it blank.
- If you encounter an ownership error, it means you lack permission to modify the Registry. Take ownership of the key, then repeat this step.
- Close the Registry Editor and reboot your PC to see if the issue is resolved.
Solution #2: Disable programs interfering with the explorer.exe Process
Third-party extensions at times disrupt processes such as explorer.exe. If recently an application has been installed after which the error appeared, uninstall it to see whether the issue reoccurs or not. Here’s how:
- Open Cortana search, type in
Control Paneland click the top result. - Click Programs, then click on Programs and Features.
- Right-click any of the applications you want to disable and click Uninstall/Change.
- Once opened, follow the uninstalling on-screen instructions that come up, then reboot your computer.
Solution #3: Check and Disable Add-ons
Browser or system add-ons can sometimes interfere with explorer.exe. Disabling unnecessary or suspicious add-ons might resolve the problem.
- Open your browser and navigate to the Extensions or Add-ons menu.
- Disable any extensions that are not required or seem unfamiliar.
- Restart your computer to see if the error is resolved.
Solution #4: Run the System File Checker Utility
Corrupted or missing system files can cause the explorer.exe blank message with a yellow exclamation mark. You can fix these files using the System File Checker utility.
Here’s what to do:
- Open Start and search for Command Prompt.
- Right-click it and select Run as Administrator.
- When prompted, type an administrator password, and then click OK.
- Type in:
DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealthand Enter. Wait until the process is complete. - Next, type
sfc /scannow, and then press Enter. - Let the verification complete without closing the window.
- Restart your computer.
Solution #5: Run a Complete Malware Scan
Some of the important processes, such as explorer.exe, going awry can be because of malware infection. Execute an extended system scan with anti-virus software to find and eliminate threats.
- Perform a full scan using a reputable antivirus, including Outbyte AVarmor.
- Remove the detected malware and restart your system.
- Check if the error persists.
People Also Ask
Read about common Windows Errors:
How to Fix The 0x80070780 Error Code
FAQs
1. What does the explorer.exe process do?
The explorer.exe process is responsible for file browsing, the taskbar, and the desktop environment in Windows systems.
2. Why does this error appear at startup?
This error can be caused by corrupted system files, some sort of software conflict, or malware infections that disturb the explorer.exe process.
3. Can malware cause problems with explorer.exe?
Yes, malware can interfere with system processes, leading to such errors.
4. Is disabling add-ons safe?
Non-necessary add-ons disabling will be safe, and consequently, the system will know if they are among those creating the conflict with the system processes.
5. How to avoid errors of explorer.exe in the future?
Keep the software updated along with antivirus and avoid installing unverified programs in order to keep the system safe.
