Fix Files or Folders on Desktop Not Opening in Windows

Why desktop files or folders cannot open

Desktop files may fail to open because file associations are broken, a shortcut points to a missing location, permissions changed, the file is corrupted, Windows Explorer is frozen, or the Desktop folder is redirected to OneDrive or another unavailable path.

Method 1. Restart Windows Explorer

Step 1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc.

Step 2. Select Windows Explorer.

Step 3. Click Restart.

Step 4. Try opening the desktop file again.

Method 2. Check whether it is a broken shortcut

Step 1. Right-click the desktop item and choose Properties.

Step 2. If there is a Shortcut tab, check the Target path.

Step 3. If the target does not exist, search the computer for the original file.

Step 4. Create a new shortcut after finding the real file.

Method 3. Repair file association

Step 1. Right-click the file and choose Open with > Choose another app.

Step 2. Select the correct app.

Step 3. Check Always use this app and click OK.

Step 4. If the app is missing, reinstall or repair it.

Method 4. Check permissions

Step 1. Right-click the file or folder and choose Properties.

Step 2. Open the Security tab.

Step 3. Select your account and check permissions.

Step 4. Use Advanced to change ownership if the file belongs to an old account.

Method 5. Run system file checks

Step 1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.

Step 2. Run sfc /scannow.

Step 3. Then run DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth.

Step 4. Restart the PC and test again.

Method 6. Recover desktop files if they are damaged or deleted

• Use Restore previous versions on the file or Desktop folder.
• Check File History or OneDrive recycle bin.
• Use recovery software if the original file was deleted.

Deep Data Recovery

Deep Data Recovery can scan the desktop location for deleted or lost original files when only broken shortcuts or damaged copies remain.

• Free Download
• Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, 100% Secure

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• How to Show Hidden Files in Windows 10
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