run dialog won’t open explorer window file association,Run Dialog Won’t Open Explorer Window: A Comprehensive Guide

Run Dialog Won’t Open Explorer Window: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you experiencing issues with the Run dialog not opening the Explorer window when you try to open a file? This can be a frustrating problem, especially when you’re in a hurry. In this article, I’ll delve into the possible causes and provide you with a step-by-step guide to resolve this issue. Let’s get started.

Understanding the Problem

The Run dialog is a convenient way to open files, folders, and programs on your Windows computer. When you type the path to a file or program in the Run dialog and press Enter, it should open the file or program in the default application. However, if the Run dialog fails to open the Explorer window, it can be due to various reasons, such as file associations, system settings, or third-party applications.

Checking File Associations

One of the most common reasons for the Run dialog not opening the Explorer window is incorrect file associations. Here’s how you can check and fix them:

1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type “control” and press Enter to open the Control Panel.
3. In the Control Panel, click on “Programs” and then “Programs and Features.” This will open the Programs and Features window.
4. In the left pane, click on “Turn Windows features on or off.” This will open the Windows Features dialog.
5. Scroll down and expand “File Explorer Options.” Check the box next to “Use Open File – dialog options.” Click “OK” to save the changes.
6. Restart your computer to apply the changes.

After restarting your computer, try opening a file using the Run dialog again. It should now open the Explorer window as expected.

Checking System Settings

Incorrect system settings can also cause the Run dialog to fail to open the Explorer window. Here’s how you can check and fix them:

1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type “regedit” and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
3. In the Registry Editor, navigate to the following path: HKEY_CURRENT_USERSoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionExplorerAdvanced
4. Locate the DWORD value “EnableRunAsAdmin” and double-click on it.
5. Set the value to 1 and click “OK.” This will enable the Run dialog to open the Explorer window.
6. Close the Registry Editor and restart your computer.

After restarting your computer, try opening a file using the Run dialog again. It should now open the Explorer window as expected.

Checking Third-Party Applications

Some third-party applications can interfere with the Run dialog and cause it to fail to open the Explorer window. Here’s how you can check and fix this:

1. Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type “msconfig” and press Enter to open the System Configuration window.
3. In the System Configuration window, click on the “Services” tab.
4. Check the box next to “Hide all Microsoft services” and click “Disable all.” This will disable all third-party services.
5. Click “OK” to save the changes and restart your computer.

After restarting your computer, try opening a file using the Run dialog again. It should now open the Explorer window as expected.

Conclusion

By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to resolve the issue of the Run dialog not opening the Explorer window when you try to open a file. If the problem persists, it may be worth seeking assistance from a professional or checking for updates to your operating system and applications.