Windows 11 File Explorer 2026 Update
What's changing, why Microsoft is doing this, what it means for privacy and performance, and how to prepare.
What's Changing in Early 2026
File Explorer Background Preloading
Starting early 2026, File Explorer will automatically preload when Windows starts. This means:
- • Always running: File Explorer process runs in background 24/7
- • Instant launch: Opening File Explorer will be nearly instantaneous
- • Enabled by default: Feature activates automatically (opt-out required to disable)
- • Resource consumption: Constant RAM usage even when not actively using File Explorer
⚠️ Important Clarification
This update only affects launch speed. Folder navigation, file operations, search performance, and network drive access remain unchanged. The slow parts of File Explorer stay slow.
Timeline & Rollout
November 2025
Microsoft Announces Update
Microsoft admits "File Explorer is slow" and announces background preloading solution for early 2026.
December 2025 - January 2026
Windows Insider Testing
Feature testing in Windows Insider builds. Early feedback and performance metrics collected.
Early 2026 (Estimated: Feb-Mar)
Public Rollout Begins
Feature rolls out to all Windows 11 users via Windows Update. Phased rollout over several weeks.
Mid 2026+
Feature Refinements
Microsoft monitors performance, battery impact, and user feedback. Potential adjustments to resource usage.
Why Microsoft Is Doing This
The Problem They're Addressing
Microsoft's own admission: "File Explorer is slow and can take longer than usual to load."
Users have complained for years about File Explorer's slow launch time, especially on slower hardware or after Windows updates. This impacts perceived Windows performance.
Why Background Preloading?
Easier than fixing File Explorer's core architecture. Preloading is a "quick win" that improves one metric (launch time) without addressing deeper performance issues in folder navigation, search, or network operations.
Industry Precedent
Chrome, Spotify, and other apps use similar preloading strategies. However, those are typically opt-in, and File Explorer 2026 will be opt-out by default.
Privacy & Performance Implications
Privacy Concerns
- ❌
Always-On Monitoring
Background process could monitor file system activity
- ❌
Telemetry Collection
Usage data sent to Microsoft servers
- ❌
Opt-Out by Default
Runs without explicit user consent
Performance Impact
- ⚠️
Constant RAM Usage
50-150MB allocated 24/7
- ⚠️
Battery Drain (Laptops)
2-5% reduction in battery life
- ⚠️
CPU Cycles
Background process consumes resources
How to Prepare for the Update
Option 1: Switch to Privacy-First Alternative (Recommended)
Use Diwadi for file operations instead of File Explorer. Benefits:
- • Zero background processes - Only runs when you launch it
- • 100% private - No telemetry, all processing local
- • Actually faster - AI-powered batch operations vs slow folder browsing
- • More features - Conversions, compressions File Explorer can't do
Option 2: Disable Background Preloading After Update
Steps (available after update in early 2026):
- 1. Open File Explorer → Options (⋮ menu)
- 2. Go to General or Performance tab
- 3. Uncheck "Preload File Explorer in background"
- 4. Apply and restart computer
⚠️ Note: Disabling returns you to slow File Explorer launch. You sacrifice speed for privacy.
Option 3: Accept the Trade-Off
Keep background preloading enabled. Get faster launch time but accept:
- • Constant RAM consumption
- • Reduced battery life on laptops
- • Privacy trade-offs (telemetry, monitoring)
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the File Explorer 2026 update roll out?
Microsoft announced (November 2025) that the update will launch in early 2026. Exact date TBA. It will roll out via Windows Update automatically to Windows 11 users.
Will the update be mandatory?
Yes, as part of Windows 11 updates. However, you can disable the background preloading feature in Settings after the update installs.
What exactly is changing?
File Explorer will preload in background at Windows startup. This means it's always running (even when not visible) to provide instant launch when you open it. The core File Explorer functionality remains the same.
Will this fix slow folder navigation?
No. It only speeds up initial File Explorer window opening. Once opened, folder navigation, file operations, search, and network drives remain at current speeds.
Can I opt out of background preloading?
Yes, via Folder Options settings (exact location TBA when update releases). But disabling it returns you to slow File Explorer launch times.
What are the privacy concerns?
Always-on background process can monitor file system activity, collect telemetry, and send data to Microsoft. It's opt-out (enabled by default), not opt-in, raising control concerns.
How much RAM will it use?
Estimated 50-150MB constantly allocated for the background process, based on current File Explorer memory usage patterns.
Should I prepare for this update?
Consider alternatives like Diwadi if you value privacy and minimal resource usage. Or plan to disable background preloading after update (though that negates the speed benefit).
Our Recommendation
Don't wait for Microsoft's band-aid solution. Switch to Diwadi for AI-powered file operations without privacy concerns or background processes.