explorerexe

Explorerexe is an informal term used to refer to the Windows Explorer executable, typically named explorer.exe. It is not a separate program but the Windows shell that provides the graphical user interface, including the desktop, taskbar, Start menu, and the File Explorer file manager.

The binary is usually located at C:\Windows\explorer.exe and is digitally signed by Microsoft. It is started automatically during user login by the Windows shell and can be restarted manually through the Task Manager or by running explorer.exe again. It can be terminated and Windows will typically restart it to restore the desktop and user interface.

Functionally, explorer.exe manages the Windows desktop and taskbar, coordinates window management, and enables file and folder navigation through the File Explorer interface. It hosts various shell components and interacts with user actions such as opening folders, launching applications, and configuring the desktop layout. In modern Windows versions, it may run as multiple sub-processes to isolate components and improve stability.

Security and reliability are important considerations. Explorer.exe is a core system process, and legitimate instances are signed by Microsoft. Malware may masquerade as explorer.exe by using the same filename in a non-standard location, so verifying the file path and digital signature is recommended if suspicious activity is observed.

See also: Windows Explorer, Windows Shell, Task Manager.