Subject: Urgent Assistance Required - File Explorer & Program Launch Issues on HP Z2 Mini G9
Hello All,
New member and new user of Windows 11 (current version is 22H2).
I'm seeking help for an unprecedented issue that I've encountered on my new HP Z2 Mini G9. While my primary system is a Mac, I've been a long-time user of Windows and have never come across this problem before.
I recently attempted to connect an OWC Express 4M2, equipped with four HP FX900 Pro NVMe M.2 SSDs, to my new HP. Unfortunately, this resulted in an instant crash, followed by the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), every time I connected the device to the HP Thunderbolt 3 port. After several unsuccessful attempts, I decided to abandon the process.
The following morning, I found that I couldn't open any folders or files. Each attempt to open a folder resulted in File Explorer trying to load, but ultimately freezing. The same issue occurred when I tried to open a text file.
Here's a list of the troubleshooting steps I've undertaken, all of which unfortunately led to no improvement:
1. I used the Task Manager to "end task" on File Explorer and ran "explorer.exe" as a new task (admin).
2. I applied default settings using File Explorer Options.
3. I executed System File Checker (SFC).
4. I ran Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) with the "restorehealth" option.
5. I scanned my system using Malwarebytes (all scans were negative). I subsequently uninstalled Malwarebytes.
6. I created a new user test account (experienced the same symptoms).
7. I've performed multiple computer restarts.
8. Attempted Windows Updates (only a Defender update was needed)
During one particular instance, the system temporarily seemed to function normally, prompting me to promptly create a restore point. However, shortly thereafter, the issues reemerged (seriously???). Although I successfully restored the system to the recent restore point (after encountering some initial issues due to Malwarebytes), the symptoms unfortunately persisted.
I considered trying the repair install approach, but I'm unable to mount the ISO since I can't open/launch such files. Moreover, I am unable to boot into safe mode; after a considerable amount of time, the system fails to boot into the recovery menu and merely ends up at the regular login screen.
I'm at my wit's end dealing with this problem, having never experienced anything quite like it. Any suggestions or guidance would be immensely appreciated, as I'm up against a work deadline and desperately need this computer to function correctly.
Thank you in advance for your support and assistance.
Hello All,
New member and new user of Windows 11 (current version is 22H2).
I'm seeking help for an unprecedented issue that I've encountered on my new HP Z2 Mini G9. While my primary system is a Mac, I've been a long-time user of Windows and have never come across this problem before.
I recently attempted to connect an OWC Express 4M2, equipped with four HP FX900 Pro NVMe M.2 SSDs, to my new HP. Unfortunately, this resulted in an instant crash, followed by the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), every time I connected the device to the HP Thunderbolt 3 port. After several unsuccessful attempts, I decided to abandon the process.
The following morning, I found that I couldn't open any folders or files. Each attempt to open a folder resulted in File Explorer trying to load, but ultimately freezing. The same issue occurred when I tried to open a text file.
Here's a list of the troubleshooting steps I've undertaken, all of which unfortunately led to no improvement:
1. I used the Task Manager to "end task" on File Explorer and ran "explorer.exe" as a new task (admin).
2. I applied default settings using File Explorer Options.
3. I executed System File Checker (SFC).
4. I ran Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) with the "restorehealth" option.
5. I scanned my system using Malwarebytes (all scans were negative). I subsequently uninstalled Malwarebytes.
6. I created a new user test account (experienced the same symptoms).
7. I've performed multiple computer restarts.
8. Attempted Windows Updates (only a Defender update was needed)
During one particular instance, the system temporarily seemed to function normally, prompting me to promptly create a restore point. However, shortly thereafter, the issues reemerged (seriously???). Although I successfully restored the system to the recent restore point (after encountering some initial issues due to Malwarebytes), the symptoms unfortunately persisted.
I considered trying the repair install approach, but I'm unable to mount the ISO since I can't open/launch such files. Moreover, I am unable to boot into safe mode; after a considerable amount of time, the system fails to boot into the recovery menu and merely ends up at the regular login screen.
I'm at my wit's end dealing with this problem, having never experienced anything quite like it. Any suggestions or guidance would be immensely appreciated, as I'm up against a work deadline and desperately need this computer to function correctly.
Thank you in advance for your support and assistance.
- Windows Build/Version
- 22H2 (Build 22621.1992)
My Computer
System One
-
- OS
- Windows 11 and Mac OS
- Computer type
- PC/Desktop
- Manufacturer/Model
- HP Z2 Mini G9
- CPU
- Intel® Core™ i9-13900K Processor
- Memory
- 64 GB (2 x 32 GB) DDR5-5600 SODIMM ECC Memory
- Graphics Card(s)
- 12GB RTX A2000
- Antivirus
- Malwarebytes