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Fix: File Explorer Preview Pane Not Working on Windows 11
Check out how our experts fixed things in no time
3 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Key notes
Fix Windows 11 OS errors with Fortect:
File Explorer’s preview pane usually displays expanded thumbnail previews of selected files in a sidebar. However, many users reported that the Preview Pane in File Explorer is not working on Windows 11.
If the File Explorer preview pane is not working, it shows aNo preview availableorFile not foundmessage. So, let’s find out how you can fix things in no time.
How can I enable the File Explorer preview pane?
It might not be enabled if you don’t see the preview pane when a file is selected. So, first, check that before you proceed with the troubleshooting.
However, users need to fix the preview pane when it’s not displaying any previews forcommon documentand image formats. If yourpreview pane isn’t showing previews, apply these resolutions.
How can I fix File Explorer’s preview pane not working in Windows 11?
Before we start making changes to solve the problem, try these quick fixes:
If these didn’t work, the solutions listed next would.
1. Make sure preview handlers are enabled
Check if the preview pane in File Explorer on Windows 11 now starts working. In case the problem persists, head to the next solution.
2. Restart the Windows Explorer process
3. Restore default File Explorer settings
Once done, verify whether the Preview Pane in File Explorer is still not working in Windows 11. Though that should not be the case for most, move to the last solution if it is.
4. Remove # symbols from file names
File Explorer’s preview pane probably isn’t its most essential feature. However, it’s still a convenient feature showing you what files look like when it works correctly. Still, it may be a resource hog, so you candisable your thumbnail previewsto speed up your PC.
Once you have managed to fix things, do not forget to check thebest ways to make Windows 11 faster.
Tell us which fix worked, and share any queries in the comments below.
More about the topics:File Explorer,Windows 11 Fix
Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
Matthew is a freelancer who has produced a variety of articles on various topics related to technology. His main focus is the Windows OS and all the things surrounding it.
He is passionate about the tech world, always staying up-to-date with the latest and greatest. With an analytical view, he likes problem-solving, focusing on errors and their causes.
In his free time, he likes to read and write about history and tries to always develop new skills.
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Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
He is passionate about everything surrounding Microsoft’s OS, focusing on troubleshooting guides & tips for everyday problems.
