How to fix File Explorer drop-down menu not working in Windows?

If you are running Windows 11 and suffering from your File Explorer drop-down menu not functioning, you are not alone – this issue can be really annoying. From the “See more” menu (three dots at the top) not opening, to opening in the wrong direction, or simply not responding, this glitch can get in the way of how you open and manage files. Let's dive into what's going on with the File Explorer drop-down menu not working, why it happens, and how to go about getting it repaired.

The problem of the File Explorer drop-down menu not working correctly also exhibits itself as menus popping up instead of dropping down, auto-collapse before you can select anything, or simply not responding at all. This can make tasks such as sorting files or navigating to settings a challenge, especially if you utilize File Explorer on a daily basis.

Causes include recent Windows updates, like the 24H2 release, introducing bugs in how the system handles screen edges. Corrupted system files, outdated drivers, or display setting mismatches can also mess with File Explorer’s functionality, while third-party apps, like explorer tweaks or antivirus software, might cause conflicts. Even a cluttered cache or temporary system glitch can be to blame.

The impact can be from mildly annoying to disruptive, especially for heavy users who are managing workflows. Restarting File Explorer, updating, adjusting display settings, clearing caches, or disabling conflicting apps are likely fixes, and for more tenacious cases, software like FortectMac Washing Machine X9 repair can normalize File Explorer.

Fix 1. Restart File Explorer

Temporary glitches in File Explorer’s process can cause menu issues, and restarting it refreshes the app without affecting other programs.

• Press Ctrl Shift Esc to open Task Manager.
• In the Processes tab, find Windows Explorer.
• Right-click on Windows Explorer and select Restart.
• Wait for a few seconds as the taskbar and desktop icons disappear and reappear.

Fix 2. Check for Windows updates

Recent updates, especially for Windows 11 24H2, may include fixes for known File Explorer bugs, like menus opening incorrectly.

• Right-click on Start and select Settings.
• Go to Update & Security/Windows Update (depending on Windows version).
• If updates are pending, click Install updates.
• Otherwise, click Check for updates and wait.
• If there are optional updates available, install them as well.
• Restart your system to implement the changes.

Fix 3. Adjust display scaling

Incorrect scaling settings can confuse menu positioning, causing them to open off-screen or in the wrong direction.

• Right-click the desktop and select Display settings.
• Scroll to Scale & layout and set scaling to 100%.
• Apply the changes.
• Test the File Explorer drop-down menus.

Fix 4. Clear File Explorer history

A cluttered cache of File Explorer settings can lead to erratic behavior, and clearing it resets the app’s preferences.

• Press Win E to open File Explorer.
• Click on the View tab, then select Options to open Folder Options. If drop-down menu is not working, simply type File Options in Windows search and press Enter.
• In the General tab, under Privacy, click on the Clear button next to Clear File Explorer history.
• Click OK to apply the changes.

Fix 5. Update graphics drivers

Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers can interfere with how menus are displayed, leading to positioning or responsiveness issues. For a quicker and more effective way of upgrading drivers, you could try DriverFix.

• Right-click on the Start button and select Device Manager from the menu.
• Expand the Display adapters section.
• Right-click on your graphics card and select Update driver.
• Pick Search automatically for drivers.
• If updates are found, allow them to install.
• Restart your computer after updating all necessary drivers.

Fix 6. Repair corrupted system files

Corrupted system files can disrupt File Explorer’s functionality, and scanning can repair missing or damaged files.

• Type cmd in Windows search.
• Right-click on the Command Prompt result and select Run as administrator.
• At this point, you should be asked by UAC (User Account Control) if you want to allow changes – click Yes.
• In the Command Prompt window, type in this command and hit Enter:
  Sfc /scannow
• Once this command is executed, you should check Windows image files – use the following commands:
  Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
  Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
  Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
• Close down the Command Prompt and restart your computer.

Fix 7. Reset File Explorer settings

If File Explorer’s configuration is corrupted, resetting it to default can fix menu issues, though it clears customizations.

• Open File Explorer.
• Click on the View tab.
• Click on Options, then Change folder and search options.
• In the Folder Options window, go to the View tab.
• Click on Reset Folders, then click Yes to confirm.
• Click on Restore Defaults, then click OK.

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