The Downloads folder serves as the storage location for all internet downloads on Windows. From there, you can access and manage all the files you have obtained from the web. However, this may not be possible if the Downloads folder stops responding on your Windows computer.
Below, we have listed some effective troubleshooting tips that should get the Downloads folder to work smoothly on your Windows computer.
1. Restart the Windows Explorer Process
Restarting the Windows Explorer process is an easy way to fix temporary issues with File Explorer. If it’s just a one-off glitch, this should get the Downloads folder to operate smoothly on your PC.
Your taskbar will disappear for a moment and then reappear. Following this, open the Downloads folder and see if it works fine.
2. Optimize the Downloads Folder for General Items
The Automatic Folder Type Discovery feature in Windows optimizes your folders depending on the file types they contain. However, this optimization can sometimes result in slow or unresponsive behavior, especially when there are a large number of files in the folder. Here’s what you can do to avoid that.
Another thing you can do to get the Downloads folder to work smoothly is to configure File Explorer to display icons rather than thumbnails. Here are the steps for the same.
Remember that this setting will apply to all folders on your system, not just the Downloads folder.
4. Delete Unwanted Files From the Downloads Folder
Having an excessive number of files in the Downloads folder can cause it to become stuck and not respond on your Windows computer. Severalusers on the Microsoft forums reportedfixing the unresponsive Downloads folder by deleting unnecessary files from it. Alternatively, you canmove your filesto a different location to free up the Downloads folder.
5. Clear File Explorer History
File Explorer on Windows keeps a record of all of your previous search queries to enhance your experience. However, if this data becomes inaccessible, the Downloads folder may stop responding on Windows. you’re able to try purging this data to see if that gets things moving again.
6. Try Some Generic Fixes for an Unresponsive Downloads Folder
If the Downloads folder still won’t respond, you can try your luck with the following troubleshooting tips to restore normalcy.
Get the Downloads Folder Working on Windows
Experiencing a slow or unresponsive Downloads folder on Windows can be quite frustrating. However, with the provided solutions, resolving problems with the Downloads folder should be a quick task.
Did you know that you are not tied to the default download location on your Windows computer? You can easily manage where the new content is saved via the Windows Settings app.
