Q&A: How do I prevent a folder from freezing up while I'm trying to open it?

Want to get my easy to follow Tech Tips in your email?

Question from Paula: My computer is a Dell desktop running Windows 11 (which was recently upgraded from Windows 10) and I’m having an irritating problem with it.

I have a folder that I’ve been using for months and after I updated to Windows 11 it started getting stuck when I try to open it. It just freezes up for a while.

If I wait long enough the folder will eventually open and I can use it like I always have, but it seems to take longer and longer every day. It took well over a minute to open a little while ago.

How can I stop this folder from freezing up on me? All the other folders on my computer open just fine.

Rick’s answer: Hi, Paula. This is an irritating issue for sure, and you’re not the only person who’s experiencing it. I get some variation of this question on a regular basis.

The “freeze” you’re referring to is due to Windows’ apparent inability to quickly determine what types of files are stored in the folder so it can know how to best display them. So your machine just sits there and tries to figure it out until it either does or you simply give up.

Luckily there’s an easy fix that (usually) works. Just follow the steps below to give it a try:

1 – With the problem folder open, right-click on a blank space inside the folder window and select Customize this folder.

2 – Click the Down Arrow in the first gray box and select General items from the drop-down menu.

3 – Check the box beside Also apply this template to all subfolders.

4 – Click OK.

That’s all there is to it. With any luck the problem folder should open just fine now. If not, let me know and I’ll tell you what to try next.

Update from Paula: It worked, Rick. Thanks for your help.

Bonus tip: Since you’re new to Windows 11 there’s a really good book that can help get you up to speed with its ins-and-outs in a hurry. It’s titled Windows 11 for Dummies All-In-One and it’s a great resource. (#ad)