Opening each folder window in its own process can improve stability in Windows. If one File Explorer window crashes, it won’t take down all others with it. This is especially useful for power users, developers, or anyone working with multiple directories at once. Below are three methods to enable it in Windows.
Method 1: Enable via Folder Options
If you prefer using built-in Windows settings, this is the simplest method.
Step 1. Open Folder Options
Open File Explorer, click the three-dot menu (…) > Options in the toolbar.
Step 2. Enable the Setting
- In the Folder Options window, go to the View tab.
- In the Advanced settings list, scroll down and find Launch folder windows in a separate process, check the box to enable it.
- Click Apply, then OK.
Method 2: Enable via Registry Editor
This method is suitable for advanced users who want more control.
Step 1. Open Registry Editor
Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
Step 2. Navigate to the SeparateProcess
- Go to: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
- In the right pane, look for a value named SeparateProcess.
If the DataCollection key does not exist, right‑click on Advanced, choose New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it SeparateProcess.
Step 3. Modify the Value
Double-click SeparateProcess and set its value to 1 to enable separate process.
Step 4. Apply Changes
Click OK and restart File Explorer or your PC.
Method 3: Enable Using Wise Care 365
If you prefer a more user-friendly approach, Wise Care 365 provides a quick way to enable this feature along with other system optimizations.
Step 1. Download and Install Wise Care 365
If you don't have it installed, you can download it from the official Wise Cleaner website.
Step 2. Open Wise Care 365
Launch the application and go to System Tuneup, then select System Optimizer.
Step 3. Enable the Setting
- Under System Stability, find the option Set Windows Explorer to run as an independent process to avoid system conflicts.
- Check the box next to this option.
Step 4. Apply the Optimization
Click the green Optimize button in the top-right corner.
Conclusion
Enabling separate processes for File Explorer folders is a simple tweak that can significantly improve system stability. Whether you use built-in Windows tools or software like Wise Care 365, the setup is quick and effective for preventing system-wide Explorer crashes.
