Microsoft acknowledges a bug in File Explorer that causes CPU usage to skyrocket. A system restart may solve the problem.

The bug would have wormed its way into File Explorer during the May 9 Windows update, but Microsoft is only now officially communicating about it. The software giant provides more text and explanations in a blog. The error occurs during a very specific action, especially when you consult and click on the advanced security settings of a folder or file View effective access clicks. A pop-up window will then appear indicating that effective access will be calculated.

CPU at full speed

However, you will not see the results of this calculation and explorer.exe will continue the calculation even after you close the pop-up window, resulting in a high CPU load. The error affects versions 21H2 and 2022 of Windows 11 as well as Windows Server 2022. A system restore is required to reduce the CPU load again. Windows encryption is not enough.

Although the bug only affects a limited number of users, Microsoft is working on a more comprehensive fix for File Explorer. He hopes to launch it later this month. Effective access is mainly used on corporate devices to control access to shared files and folders.