Save as/Open file slows down Explorer, takes very long

Chris 0 Reputation points
2026-09-15T08:19:38.91+00:00

Hi,

I’ve seen multiple posts about the same issue, and even more answers. I’ve tried each one, but unfortunately nothing worked.

I’m on Windows 11 25H2 (build 26200.9445) but this issue has been here for a long time so It persists through many updates. I can use File Explorer normally and smoothly, except when another app launches the file selection pop-up window. In that case, it can take anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes for the window to load.

The issue happens for example when:

  • Pressing 'save as' on an attachment in Outlook .
  • Clicking 'Import' -> 'From this device' in Capcut.
  • Basically using 'Open file' in any other app like Gimp.

Both the explorer and the app windows freeze, when clicking on them they show (not responding).

So far:

  • All drivers are up to date, caches have been cleared, etc.
  • Onedrive is turned off, same with the file sync.
  • It’s not just my machine since other coworker has complained about experiencing the same issue (same domain but I dont think it matters).
  • Tried unmapping the extra drives, including network drives.
  • Tried removing OneDrive from the Explorer sidebar by editing the registry.
  • Cleared File History and also tried disabling it.
  • I edited the Local Group Policy settings to prevent OneDrive from being the default destination for saving files.
  • Im also going to try booting my laptop (Dell Pro 16 plus PB16250) in the safe mode to check if the issue remains and I'll edit/comment the result

None of the online solutions I found worked, so I’m reaching out here.

I have no idea how to resolve this issue. Any help would be appreciated. As a last resort, I’ll try uninstalling OneDrive altogether.

(EDIT 1):
In safe mode with network the issue remains.
Safe mode without network, 'Open file' and 'Save as' work instantly.
I also tried the same test in normal boot mode with all internet turned off, and the issue was still there.

(EDIT 2):
Disabling the Onedrive sync service and whole onedrive fixed the issue, (only if every app that uses it is closed)
But I would prefer to fix it without disabling Onedrive.

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Apps
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  1. Emma1-N 12,445 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2026-09-16T03:37:48.5133333+00:00

    Welcome Chris,

    Thank you for sharing the additional details. I noticed you mentioned that other coworkers on the same domain are experiencing the same behavior. Could you please clarify whether this Dell Pro 16 Plus is a personal Windows 11 Home device using a personal Microsoft account, or is it connected to a work or school account and managed by your organization?

    I ask because if the device is domain-joined, managed by your employer, or using organizational services such as OneDrive for Business, Group Policy, or other company-managed configurations, the issue would fall outside the scope of consumer Microsoft support and would be best investigated by your organization's IT administrator.

    If this is a personal Windows 11 Home device with a personal Microsoft account, please let me know and I'll continue troubleshooting with you.

    Was this answer helpful?

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