Is it a Virus?
✔ NO - Safe
Should be located in C:\Program Files\Explorer++\Explorer++.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\Explorer++\Explorer++.exe
Warning
Typical Explorer++ usage is low; if you see unrelated processes, run a malware scan.
Explorer++ generally runs as a single main process; multiple windows may appear, but they originate from the same executable.
Can I Disable?
✔ YES
Close Explorer++ when not needed or disable its Windows startup option to stop automatic launches.
What is explorer++.exe?
explorer++.exe is the executable for Explorer++. This lightweight, tabbed file manager extends Windows Explorer by offering dual-pane-style layouts, tabbed browsing, bookmarks, and configurable panels. It runs alongside Windows Explorer, providing a more flexible interface for file operations, without replacing the core OS shell.
Explorer++.exe runs as a standalone application with its own UI and a focused feature set; it typically uses a single process with background threads for file operations, caching, and UI rendering, while integrating with Windows for shell access.
Quick Fact: Explorer++ introduced reliable tabbed navigation and dual-pane layouts to Windows file management, improving productivity without altering the Windows shell.
Types of Explorer++ Processes
- Main UI Process: Handles the primary Explorer++ window, tabs, and user interactions
- Background Worker: Performs file operations in background threads to keep UI responsive
- Indexing/Preview Process: Optional tasks like thumbnail generation; may run briefly during scans
Is explorer++.exe Safe?
Yes, explorer++.exe is safe when downloaded from the official Explorer++ project site or reputable software repositories and the file is signed if applicable.
Is explorer++.exe a Virus or Malware?
The real explorer++.exe is NOT a virus. However, malware can disguise itself with similar names. Always verify location and signature.
How to Tell if explorer++.exe is Legitimate or Malware
- File Location: Must be in C:\Program Files\Explorer++\Explorer++.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\Explorer++\Explorer++.exe. Any explorer++.exe elsewhere is suspicious.
- Digital Signature: Open the file at C:\Program Files\Explorer++\Explorer++.exe (or C:\Program Files (x86)\Explorer++\Explorer++.exe) and check Digital Signatures; should show a valid certificate from 'Explorer++ Project' or a recognized signer.
- Resource Usage: Idle usage should be light; consistently high CPU or memory with no visible Explorer++ window is a red flag. Check from Task Manager for the process at C:\Program Files\Explorer++\Explorer++.exe.
- Behavior: Explorer++.exe should not install software or modify system settings without your consent; verify actions originate from the Explorer++ process at the correct path.
Red Flags: If explorer++.exe is located in unusual folders (like AppData\Local, Temp, or System32), runs when Windows is not starting Explorer++, lacks a valid signature, or spawns unexpected child processes, scan with a reputable Antivirus and perform a malware check.
Why Is explorer++.exe Running on My PC?
Explorer++.exe runs when you launch Explorer++ or when Windows is configured to start it automatically; it may also run briefly to render UI elements when a tab or pane is opened.
Reasons it's running:
- Active Use: You have Explorer++ open with one or more tabs or panes; each tab is a separate view within the same process.
- Background Tasks: Background tasks such as thumbnail generation or directory monitoring may run while Explorer++ is active.
- Startup Program: Explorer++ can be configured to start with Windows, causing the process to launch at login.
- Recent File Indexing: Opening folders and indexing recent files can transiently spawn worker threads to update previews.
- Shell Integration: Explorer++ may integrate with the Windows shell, causing its UI components to be loaded in response to shell actions.
Can I Disable or Remove explorer++.exe?
Yes, you can disable explorer++.exe. It's safe to close Explorer++ when not in use or remove Explorer++ entirely if you prefer Windows File Explorer.
How to Stop explorer++.exe
- End Active Session: Close all Explorer++ windows or tabs from the UI, or use the in-app option to exit.
- Close Process: Open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc), locate explorer++.exe, right-click and End Task.
- Disable Startup: Task Manager → Startup tab → Disable Explorer++.exe to stop auto-launch.
- Modify Settings: In Explorer++ settings, turn off 'Start at Windows startup' and any 'Run in background' options if present.
- Reinstall Alternative: If you are replacing Explorer++, uninstall it via Settings or Programs and Features.
How to Uninstall Explorer++
- ✔ Windows Settings → Apps → Apps & Features → Explorer++ → Uninstall
- ✔ Control Panel → Programs → Uninstall a program → Explorer++ → Uninstall
- ✔ Consider alternatives: Windows File Explorer upgrades, Total Commander, Directory Opus
Common Problems: High CPU or Memory Usage
If explorer++.exe is consuming excessive resources, use these checks to diagnose and fix the issue.
Common Causes & Solutions
- Too Many Tabs Open: Each tab adds UI elements and may increase memory usage. Close unused tabs or use the built-in tree/pane toggles.
- Background Tasks: Thumbnail generation or directory monitoring can spike usage. Allow tasks to complete or disable nonessential features in Settings.
- Indexing Large Folders: Exclude large folders from indexing or limit the scope of automatic indexing.
- Outdated Software: Update Explorer++ to the latest version from the official site to fix memory leaks and bugs.
- Corrupted Settings: Reset Explorer++ settings to default, or delete the settings file in C:\Users\<User>\AppData\Roaming\Explorer++.
- Third-Party Interference: Temporarily disable other shell extensions or security software that may conflict with Explorer++.exe.
Quick Fixes:
1. Close unused tabs or panels in Explorer++ to reduce memory usage
2. Check for updates: Help → Check for Updates or visit explorerplusplus.com
3. Reset settings to default if problems persist
4. Restart Explorer++ or reboot the system
5. Run a malware scan if abnormal behavior persists
Frequently Asked Questions
Is explorer++.exe a virus?
No, the legitimate explorer++.exe from the Explorer++ Project is not a virus. Verify the file path (C:\Program Files\Explorer++\Explorer++.exe or C:\Program Files (x86)\Explorer++\Explorer++.exe) and check the digital signature.
Why is explorer++.exe using so much CPU?
High CPU can occur with heavy tab activity, large folders, or a problematic extension (if enabled). Use Task Manager to identify the process and close heavy tabs or update Explorer++.
Can I delete explorer++.exe?
Yes, you can uninstall Explorer++ through Windows Settings or Programs and Features if you no longer want it. Your files and preferences in Windows Explorer will remain; consider alternatives first.
Can I disable explorer++.exe?
Yes, you can close Explorer++ or prevent startup via Task Manager → Startup. If you want to stop background tasks, adjust in its settings or uninstall.
Why does Explorer++ start with Windows?
If you enabled the "Start at Windows startup" option, it will launch at login. Disable this in Task Manager → Startup or in Explorer++ settings to stop automatic starts.
How do I install Explorer++?
Download the installer from the official Explorer++ site, run it, and follow the prompts. After install, you can customize tabs and panels in the settings.