W10 – certain file extensions crash explorer when selected

Troubleshooting Windows Explorer Crashes Caused by Specific File Extensions

Overview

Recently, some Windows users have reported experiencing unexpected hangs in Windows Explorer when selecting certain file types. This issue manifests as the Explorer window becoming unresponsive—displaying the loading cursor—and ceasing to respond to further input, even though other system functionalities remain unaffected. The problem appears to be isolated to specific file extensions, with others functioning normally.

Symptoms

Single-clicking certain file types (e.g., TXT, DOC, XLS, JPEG, PDF) causes Explorer to freeze momentarily.
The cursor displays the loading wheel, implying the process is busy, but no further activity occurs.
Users can close and reopen Windows Explorer without restarting the computer, though the same files remain problematic.
The hang occurs only on selection, not when opening or launching files.
Other file categories such as executables, videos, and system files do not trigger the issue.

Initial Troubleshooting Steps

System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM): Running sfc /scannow followed by DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth has been reported to temporarily resolve the issue. Restarting the system afterward often restores normal Explorer behavior.
Cache and Indexing: Clearing the Explorer cache and rebuilding the search index did not resolve the problem, suggesting the root cause lies elsewhere.
Alternative File Browsers: Using third-party explorers like OneCommander shows no issues with selecting the same files, indicating the problem may be confined to Windows Explorer.

Potential Causes

Corrupted thumbnail cache or preview handlers for specific file types.
Faulty or incompatible shell extensions associated with particular file formats.
Corrupted system files affecting the Explorer interface.
Conflicts caused by third-party software or outdated drivers.

Recommended Solutions

Reset Thumbnail Cache: Clear thumbnail images to eliminate corrupted previews using Disk Cleanup or manually deleting thumbnail cache files:

bash Del /f /s /q %LocalAppData%\Microsoft\Windows\Explorer\thumbcache_*.db

Disable or Remove Shell Extensions: Use tools like ShellExView to identify and disable third-party shell extensions that may interfere with file handling.
Update System Drivers and Windows: Ensure all drivers and Windows updates are current to minimize compatibility issues.
Perform a Clean Boot: Temporarily disable non

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