Many times we install a software, shell extension which requires a restart. Sometimes logging off or end task of Explorer does the job and we don’t need to restart the whole system. We usually End task of Explorer using Task Manager but Windows XP provides a lot easier way to Exit Explorer which is better than using Task Manager to forcefully End task of Explorer.
Its a hidden option in Windows XP. Do as following to close Explorer cleanly and safely:
1. Click on Startmenu and then click on Shutdown button. It’ll show shutdown dialog box as following:
Now press “Ctrl“, “Alt” and “Shift” keys and click on “Cancel” button. It’ll close the Explorer.
2. To get the Explorer back, press “Ctrl+Shift+Esc” keys and it’ll open Task Manager. Now click on “File -> New Task (Run…)” option.
3. Type explorer in the text box and click on OK button:
4. That’s it. Windows Explorer will be back.
This method is much safe and has been recommended by Microsoft itself.
If you are using Windows Vista or Server 2008, then you can use following tutorial to safely and cleanly close Windows Explorer:
Hidden Trick to Exit Windows Explorer Using Start Menu in Windows Vista and Server 2008
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Ingnition said:
Thanx, So i don’t have to restart my whole computer? IF that is correct. WoW
bob said:
Is it the same for XP pro? different shutdown box
VG said:
^^ Yep. It’ll work for all Windows XP versions. I think you are using Classic shutdown dialog box. Pls follow instructions given in following tutorial:
http://www.askvg.com/how-to-enable-disable-new-xp-style-welcome-screen-log-off-and-shutdown-dialog-box-in-windows-xp/
@Ingnition
Sometimes a software only requires restart of shell to update registry or some other files, in that situation we can omit a restart by using this trick.
Riza said:
I restart Explorer often and this looks nice trick but I don’t know why when I use Ctrl Shift ALt nothing happens.
I have XP Media Center 2005 SP3.
VG said:
^^ I have checked it in XP pro but can’t say anything about MCE. Did you click on Cancel button after pressing all 3 keys?
Riza said:
Of course, I clicked Cancel. Nothing. Just disappear Shut Down dialog. Weird. Maybe MCE.
Big J said:
Hey VG,
I have know about this one since i bought XP PRO back in 2002.
This is very useful and has saved me a lot of time and unnecessary reboots.
I have shown this little trick to many PC users over the years.
Big J
Riza said:
OMG, now is OK.
I’ve used ShellToys ShutDown shortcut not that from Start menu. I tried first time with Start menu’s “Turn Off Computer” dialog and it works.
Nice.
Swaroop said:
Hi VG,
Knew the retrieving method for a while [For USB removal] . But didn’t know the shortcut. Thanks