Windows 11 is the latest version of the Microsoft operating system that has several new features, including a new Start menu and taskbar. However, some users have reported an issue where thumbnails for images and videos do not display correctly in File Explorer. This issue can be frustrating, as it makes it difficult to identify files quickly. In this article, we’ll discuss how to fix the Windows 11 thumbnails not showing issue.
- Check File Explorer Options
The first step to fixing the Windows 11 thumbnails not showing issue is to check the File Explorer options. To do this, open File Explorer and go to the View tab. Click on Options, and then select Change folder and search options. Under the View tab, ensure that the “Always show icons, never thumbnails” option is unchecked. Click Apply and then OK to save the changes.
- Rebuild the Thumbnail Cache
If the File Explorer options are correct, the next step is to rebuild the thumbnail cache. To do this, press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box. Type “disk cleanup” and press Enter. In the Disk Cleanup window, select the drive where Windows is installed and click OK. Check the box next to “Thumbnails” and click OK. Windows will then rebuild the thumbnail cache.
- Update Graphics Card Drivers
If the above steps do not work, the next step is to update the graphics card drivers. Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause issues with Windows 11 thumbnails not showing correctly. To update the graphics card drivers, go to the manufacturer’s website and download the latest drivers for your graphics card.
- Adjust Visual Effects
Adjusting the visual effects settings can also fix the Windows 11 thumbnails not showing issue. To do this, right-click on the Start button and select System. Click on Advanced system settings, and then select the Advanced tab. Under the Performance section, click on Settings. Select the “Adjust for best appearance” option, and then click OK.
- Check Disk for Errors
If none of the above solutions work, the final step is to check the disk for errors. To do this, open File Explorer and right-click on the drive where Windows is installed. Select Properties and then click on the Tools tab. Under the Error checking section, click on Check. Windows will then scan the disk for errors and fix them.
In conclusion, the Windows 11 thumbnails not showing issue can be frustrating, but there are several solutions to fix it. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can resolve the issue and enjoy using Windows 11 without any problems.
