Fix: File Explorer Not Maximized With Explorer Patcher

Hey guys, having trouble with File Explorer not opening maximized after installing Explorer Patcher? You're not alone! This is a common issue, and we're here to help you troubleshoot it. Let's dive into the problem, understand why it happens, and explore potential solutions to get your File Explorer behaving as expected.

Understanding the Issue

The core problem is that after installing Explorer Patcher and configuring it, File Explorer stubbornly refuses to open in a maximized state. Instead, it consistently launches in a windowed mode with a predefined size. This can be frustrating, especially if you prefer to work with a maximized File Explorer for better screen real estate and workflow efficiency. Essentially, the expected behavior of File Explorer remembering its last size and opening maximized is overridden after Explorer Patcher is installed and configured. Many users find this inconsistent behavior disruptive to their workflow. Understanding the root cause often involves examining Explorer Patcher settings, Windows settings, and potential conflicts with other software.

Why Does This Happen?

Several factors could contribute to this issue. Explorer Patcher, while designed to enhance and customize the Windows experience, can sometimes introduce unexpected side effects due to its modifications to the system's shell. Here's a breakdown of potential causes:

• Explorer Patcher Settings: Incorrect or conflicting settings within Explorer Patcher itself are a primary suspect. The application offers a wide array of customization options, and some of these settings might inadvertently interfere with File Explorer's default behavior regarding window maximization.
• Windows Settings: Windows has its own settings related to window behavior. It's possible that these settings are not properly configured or are being overridden by Explorer Patcher.
• Third-Party Software Conflicts: Conflicts with other third-party software, especially those that also modify the shell or window behavior, can also play a role. Software like TranslucentTB or Wallpaper Engine, as mentioned in the original report, could potentially interfere.
• Corrupted System Files: Although less likely, corrupted system files could contribute to the problem. System file corruption can lead to a variety of unexpected behaviors within Windows.

Troubleshooting Steps

Okay, enough with the explanations! Let's get down to fixing this annoying problem. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you troubleshoot and resolve the File Explorer maximization issue:

1. Verify Explorer Patcher Settings

Your first step should be to carefully review your Explorer Patcher settings. Pay close attention to any options that relate to window behavior, appearance, or shell modifications. Specifically, look for settings that might be forcing File Explorer to open in a specific size or windowed mode. It is very important to make sure that the settings are not conflicting with each other.

• Reset to Defaults: A simple yet effective approach is to reset Explorer Patcher to its default settings. This will undo any customizations you've made and allow you to start with a clean slate. To do this, open Explorer Patcher's properties window (usually accessible from the system tray icon), find the option to reset to defaults, and apply the change. Then, restart Explorer and check if the issue is resolved. After that, you can re-apply your settings one by one, testing each change to identify the culprit.
• Experiment with "Windows 10 Mode" Options: Since you mentioned using "Windows 10 Mode", try toggling related options on and off to see if any of them are causing the problem. Some users have reported that specific combinations of settings within this mode can lead to unexpected behavior.
• Disable "Straight Corners" Temporarily: The "Straight Corners" option (or whatever its exact English translation is) might be related to the issue. Try disabling it temporarily to see if it resolves the problem. Then you can enable it again.

2. Check Windows Settings

Next, let's examine Windows settings that might be influencing File Explorer's window behavior. Here are a couple of key areas to investigate:

• File Explorer Options:
  • Open File Explorer.
  • Click on the three dots (...) in the toolbar and select "Options".
  • In the "General" tab, under "Open File Explorer to:", make sure it's set to "This PC" or a specific folder, rather than "Quick Access" if you are experimenting issues.
  • In the "View" tab, ensure that "Restore previous folder windows at logon" is unchecked. This setting can sometimes interfere with window maximization.
• Compatibility Mode (Avoid if Possible): Sometimes, a program might be running in compatibility mode, which can cause windowing issues. To check this:
  • Right-click on the File Explorer shortcut (or find the explorer.exe file in C:\Windows).
  • Select "Properties".
  • Go to the "Compatibility" tab.
  • Make sure that no compatibility mode options are checked. If they are, uncheck them and try again.

3. Investigate Third-Party Software Conflicts

As mentioned earlier, conflicts with other software can also be the culprit. To test for this, try the following:

• Disable TranslucentTB and Wallpaper Engine Temporarily: Since you have these installed, temporarily disable them to see if they are interfering with File Explorer's behavior. If disabling them resolves the issue, you can then try to identify specific settings within these applications that are causing the conflict.
• Clean Boot: Perform a clean boot of Windows. This starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs, helping to isolate whether a third-party application is causing the problem. To perform a clean boot:
  • Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  • In the "System Configuration" window, go to the "Services" tab.
  • Check "Hide all Microsoft services" and then click "Disable all".
  • Go to the "Startup" tab and click "Open Task Manager".
  • In Task Manager, disable all startup items.
  • Close Task Manager and click "OK" in the "System Configuration" window.
  • Restart your computer.
  • After the restart, check if the File Explorer maximization issue is resolved. If it is, you can then re-enable startup items and services one by one to identify the conflicting application.

4. Re-register ExplorerFrame.dll

ExplorerFrame.dll is an important file for File Explorer. Re-registering it can solve some unexpected problems.

• Open Command Prompt as administrator.
• Type regsvr32 /u ExplorerFrame.dll and press Enter.
• Then, type regsvr32 ExplorerFrame.dll and press Enter.
• Restart your computer.

5. System File Checker (SFC) Scan

To rule out corrupted system files, run the System File Checker (SFC) tool. This tool scans for and repairs corrupted system files.

• Open Command Prompt as administrator.
• Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
• Wait for the scan to complete. This may take some time.
• If SFC finds and repairs any corrupted files, restart your computer.

6. Consider a Clean Installation of Explorer Patcher

If none of the above steps work, consider completely uninstalling Explorer Patcher and then reinstalling it. This can help to resolve any issues caused by a corrupted installation.

• Uninstall Explorer Patcher: Use the standard Windows uninstall process to remove Explorer Patcher from your system.
• Download the Latest Version: Download the latest version of Explorer Patcher from the official source (usually GitHub).
• Reinstall: Reinstall Explorer Patcher, carefully following the installation instructions.
• Configure Gradually: After reinstalling, configure Explorer Patcher gradually, testing File Explorer's behavior after each change to identify any settings that might be causing the issue.

Reporting the Issue (If It Persists)

If you've tried all of the above steps and the issue still persists, it's a good idea to report the problem to the Explorer Patcher developer (valinet). When reporting the issue, be sure to include the following information:

• Explorer Patcher Version: The exact version number of Explorer Patcher you are using.
• Windows Version: Your Windows edition and build number.
• Detailed Description: A clear and concise description of the problem, including the steps you've taken to troubleshoot it.
• Configuration Details: Information about your Explorer Patcher settings, especially those related to window behavior or appearance.
• Third-Party Software: A list of any other third-party software you have installed that might be relevant (e.g., shell extensions, customization tools).
• Steps to Reproduce: Clear, step-by-step instructions on how to reproduce the issue.

Conclusion

It can be a pain when File Explorer doesn't maximize as expected after installing Explorer Patcher, but by systematically troubleshooting and investigating potential causes, you can often resolve the problem. Start by checking your Explorer Patcher settings, then move on to Windows settings, third-party software conflicts, and system file integrity. If all else fails, consider a clean installation of Explorer Patcher or reporting the issue to the developer. Good luck, and happy exploring!