Microsoft is finally acknowledging what many Windows 11 users have felt for years, File Explorer can be slow in ways that a faster launch alone won’t fix. The latest explanation from Microsoft points to a broader performance push for Windows 11 File Explorer, including changes aimed at startup behavior, disk activity, visual delays, and app hangs. That matters because the pain shows up in everyday use. Folder navigation, thumbnails, context menus, and small pauses can all make Windows’ file manager feel heavier than it should. Why faster starts still fall short Microsoft’s disputed answer so far has been File Explorer preloading, which keeps key pieces of the app ready before you click the icon. The upside is clear, the window can appear faster because Windows has already done some of the work in the background. Paulo Vargas / Digital Trends But that fix has limits.…