Software⏱️ 3 min read📅 2026-06-15

How to Fix: Explorer.exe - Application error

Windows 10 error with explorer.exe application error and memory address reference.

Quick Answer: Try running the DISM tool again with the /source option to specify the location of the required files.

📋 Table of Contents

  1. 💡 Why You Are Getting This Error
  2. 🔧 Proven Troubleshooting Steps
  3. ✨ Wrapping Up

The 'Explorer.exe - Application Error' issue is a frustrating problem that affects Windows 10 users who experience an error message when shutting down or rebooting their computer. The error message displays memory addresses, indicating a potential issue with system files or RAM.

This issue can be particularly annoying for users who rely on remote desktop connections (RDC) and have to deal with the same problem every time they shut down or restart their computer.

💡 Why You Are Getting This Error

  • The primary cause of this error is a corruption in the Windows system files, which can occur due to various reasons such as hardware failures, software conflicts, or improper system updates. In some cases, it may be related to the memory issues, as suggested by MemTest86's findings.
  • Another possible reason for this error could be related to the upgrade path from Windows XP to Windows 10. The multiple upgrades and changes in the system configuration might have caused a disruption in the system files, leading to this issue.

🔧 Proven Troubleshooting Steps

System File Checker (SFC) and DISM scans

  1. Step 1: Run the System File Checker (SFC) scan to identify and replace any corrupted system files. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and type `sfc /scannow`.
  2. Step 2: Run the DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) scan to repair any issues with the Windows installation. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and type `dism /online /cleanup-image /RestoreHealth`.
  3. Step 3: If both SFC and DISM scans are clean, try running them again or checking for any available updates.

Memory troubleshooting

  1. Step 1: Run MemTest86 to identify any faulty RAM modules. If a bad module is found, replace it with a new one and test the system again.
  2. Step 2: If replacing the RAM does not fix the issue, try removing all non-essential devices and peripherals from the system before shutting down or restarting.

✨ Wrapping Up

To resolve the 'Explorer.exe - Application Error' issue, start by running System File Checker (SFC) and DISM scans to identify and repair any corrupted system files. If these scans are clean, proceed with memory troubleshooting using MemTest86. Replacing faulty RAM modules or removing non-essential devices might help fix the issue. If none of these methods work, consider seeking further assistance from Microsoft support or a professional IT technician.

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