If you’ve encountered an error when shutting down or restarting Windows that reads something like:
“Explorer.EXE Application Error – The instruction at [memory address] referenced memory at [memory address]. The memory could not be written. Click OK to terminate the program.”
Don’t panic! This error will eventually disappear on its own, and Windows will continue to shut down or reboot as expected. However, if you’re wondering what causes it and how to fix it, read on.
What is Explorer.EXE?
First, let’s clarify that Explorer.EXE is the entire Windows interface, not just the File Explorer. This means the error is related to how Windows manages its graphical user interface (GUI), not file browsing. Also, there is nothing wrong with your RAM—so no need to rush out and buy new memory modules.
What Causes This Error?
This issue appears to be linked to a Windows update released in January 2024 (KB5034204). Even a year later, this bug persists, and the update has been integrated into cumulative Windows updates, making it harder to uninstall. Additionally, newer builds of Windows 11 now have this update pre-installed.
Interestingly, many users (including myself) only experience this error after connecting an Xbox controller. In my case, I had to connect a controller for a review, and although it’s no longer attached, it still appears in my system devices. The error occurs only when I boot into Windows and launch a game or an application that appears to be a game—such as the Nvidia app. If I simply work in Windows without playing any games and then shut down or restart my PC, I don’t see the error.
How to Fix the Explorer.EXE Error
Although this error is mostly an annoyance rather than a serious issue, there are a couple of ways to get rid of it:
Method 1: Remove the Xbox Controller from System Devices
If you have connected an Xbox controller or similar gamepad, try removing it from your system devices:
Open Device Manager
Locate Xbox Peripherals (or any gamepad listed under Human Interface Devices)
Right-click and select Uninstall Device
Even if you have never connected a gamepad, certain peripherals, such as gaming keyboards, can act as virtual controllers. One such example is the Anne Pro 2 gaming keyboard, which has a built-in gamepad.
Method 2: Disable the Game Input Service
If you still want to use a controller but want to prevent the error, you can disable the Game Input Service:
Open Windows Services (Press Win + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter)
Scroll down and find Game Input Service
Right-click and select Properties
Click Stop to stop the service
Change Startup type from Manual or Automatic to Disabled
Click Apply, then OK
Will Disabling Game Input Service Affect My Controller?
Disabling the Game Input Service should not affect the functionality of your gamepad or controller in most cases. However, if your controller stops working, set the service back to Manual mode and live with the error until Microsoft releases a fix.
Final Thoughts
This error is nothing more than an inconvenience, and Microsoft may eventually patch it in a future update. Until then, the above solutions should help you mitigate the issue.