How to Fix Windows 11 Internet Explorer Not Working: A Comprehensive Guide

Internet Explorer is a critical component in Windows 11, but issues can arise from time to time. If you're experiencing problems with Internet Explorer in Windows 11, don't worry! Here are some practical steps and solutions to help you troubleshoot and fix the issue.

Steps to Fix Windows 11 Internet Explorer Issues

1. Restart Windows Explorer

Press Ctrl Shift Esc to open Task Manager. Scroll down to find Windows Explorer. Right-click and select Restart.

2. Run System File Checker (SFC)

Press Win X and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin). Type sfc /scannow and press Enter. Wait for the scan to finish and follow any on-screen instructions.

3. Clear File Explorer History

Open Control Panel and navigate to File Explorer Options. Under the General tab, click on Clear under Privacy. Click Apply and then OK.

4. Disable Startup Programs

Press Ctrl Shift Esc to open Task Manager. Go to the Startup tab. Disable non-essential programs by right-clicking and selecting Disable.

5. Update Windows

Go to Settings > Windows Update. Check for any available updates and install them.

6. Check for Corrupted User Profile

Create a new user profile by going to Settings > Accounts > Family other users > Add account. Switch to the new account and check if the issue persists.

7. Perform a System Restore

Press Win R, type rstrui, and press Enter. Follow the prompts to restore your system to a previous point where Windows Explorer was working properly.

Troubleshooting Steps for Windows 11 Internet Explorer Not Working

1. Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve many software-related issues.

2. Update Windows

Ensure that your Windows 11 operating system is up to date. Microsoft frequently releases updates that include bug fixes and improvements.

3. Check for System File Corruption

Run the System File Checker (SFC) utility to scan for and repair any corrupted or missing system files. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and type the following command: sfc /scannow Press Enter and let the scan complete. Follow any on-screen instructions if prompted.

4. Run DISM Tool

The Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool can also help fix system corruption. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and type the following command: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth Press Enter and let the process complete. This might take some time.

5. Restart Windows Explorer

Restarting the Windows Explorer process can resolve issues.

6. Check for Third-Party Software Conflicts

Booting into Safe Mode can help identify conflicting software. Load Windows with only the essential drivers and services. If Windows Explorer works fine in Safe Mode, it indicates that a third-party program is causing the issue. Uninstall recently installed programs or perform a clean boot to identify the conflicting software.

7. Check for Malware

Run a full scan of your system using a reputable antivirus or anti-malware program to check for any malicious software that may be affecting Windows Explorer.

8. Perform a System Restore

If the issue started recently, use System Restore to revert your system to a previous state when Windows Explorer was working correctly.

9. Perform a Repair Install

If none of the above steps resolve the issue, consider performing a repair install of Windows 11. This option allows you to reinstall Windows while keeping your files and programs intact. Always back up your important files before proceeding with this step.

If none of these steps resolve the issue, seek further assistance from Microsoft support or consider reinstalling Windows 11 as a last resort.