Microsoft has begun testing a new File Explorer preloading feature in Windows 11, aimed at fixing long-standing complaints about slow launch times and lag. The improvement, currently available in Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7271 across both Dev and Beta channels, is expected to roll out more widely in early 2026.
The enhancement comes after continuous user frustration over File Explorer taking too long to open—often displaying a blank screen with the message “Working on it…” before loading files. In contrast, Windows 10’s File Explorer was widely regarded as faster and more responsive, and delays on Windows 11 have been reported across various hardware configurations, from budget laptops to high-end PCs.
How Microsoft Plans to Speed Up File Explorer on Windows 11
The new optimization introduces background preloading, meaning Windows will quietly prepare File Explorer behind the scenes before the user opens it. This dramatically reduces launch delays, allowing the window to appear almost instantly when clicked. The feature will be enabled by default, offering users a noticeable performance boost without requiring additional setup.
For those who prefer not to use background preloading, Microsoft has added a toggle. How to turn off File Explorer preloading in Windows 11:
- Open Folder Options
- Navigate to the View tab
- Uncheck “Enable window preloading for faster launch times”
The update forms part of Microsoft’s broader push to improve Windows 11 performance, system responsiveness, and overall user experience, especially as the OS transitions to more AI-enhanced features and workloads.
