If you try to run an outdated version of a program or UWP app, you may encounter the File Picker Ul Host is not responding error on your computer. This problem also occurs when you try to attach a file to the email. Some users reported that it freezes the computer and shows the following error message:
File Picker UI Host is not responding. If you close the program, you might lose information.
This guide will explain all the possible methods that may help you to fix this issue. So, let’s find out the way.
What is the File Picker UI host in Task Manager?
The File Picker UI host (PickerHost.exe) is a legitimate Windows operating system file that is located in the System32 folder. It is required for the smooth running of the OS.
It is also known to allow you to share files and folders with another app, such as Microsoft Word, Microsoft Paint, or Microsoft Excel. The program also allows you to view your files the same way you do on your PC. This feature might be useful if you ever want to find an old file, look through recent photos, or upload any kind of media to a cloud storage service.
Why is my File Picker UI not working?
Most of the time, this problem occurs when problematic applications become outdated. And as a result, the problematic applications may be incompatible with the operating system. Installing the latest Windows Update and updating your program and apps to their latest versions and the issue could be resolved.
File Picker UI Host PickerHost.exe is not responding
If you’re confronted with this issue, you can try the following suggestions and see if that helps to resolve the problem.
- Reset the Program or App
- Run SFC and DISM scan
- Troubleshoot in a clean boot state
- Reset File Explorer for Best Performance
- Check Virtual Memory settings.
Let’s now see them in detail.
1] Reset the Program or App
It is likely that the incorrect setting is to blame for this error. You need to reinstall or repair the program that is giving out this error, or repair or reset the Microsoft Store app.
- Press Windows + I keyboard shortcut to open Windows 10 Settings.
- Click on the Apps category.
- Go to the Apps & features tab.
- Locate the problematic app and select it.
- Click on the link stating Advanced options.
- Here you can opt to Repair or Reset the app.
2] Run SFC and DISM scan
Missing or corrupted system files are another possible culprit that might cause this issue. If that is the case, you need to run System File Checker and Deployment Imaging and Servicing Management tool to scan the protected Windows files and replace the faulty system files.
To do this, do the following:
- Open an elevated command prompt and type in the following command –
sfc /scannow
- Now press the Enter key to run the command.
- Once it completes, restart your computer.
- Now run the below command line to fix any system image corruption and repair the Windows Component Store itself.
Dism.exe /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth
- Once you complete the steps, restart your computer. it will update the files and possibly fix the problem
3] Troubleshoot in a clean boot state
In case the issue is still not resolved, you will need to perform a clean boot and troubleshoot in a clean boot state on your computer. Maybe you will be able to isolate the offender manually.
4] Reset File Explorer for Best Performance
If nothing helps, you may try resetting the File Explorer and see if it helps. To accomplish this, follow the steps below:
- Right-click on the Start button and open the Run dialog box.
- Type Sysdm.cpl in the text area and click OK.
- Go to the Advanced tab and under the Performance section, click on the Settings button.
- On the Visual Effects tab, select the Adjust for best performance option.
5] Check Virtual Memory settings
While there,you may switch to the Advanced tab and select the Programs radio button under the Processor scheduling section.
Under the Virtual memory section, click on the Change button.
Select the checkbox for Automatically manage paging file size for all drives.
Click on the OK button to save the changes.
These are the solutions that can solve your error File Picker UI Host is not responding.
We would appreciate any feedback or suggestions you might have.
Is PickerHost.exe a virus?
If PickerHost.exe is located in the System32 folder then it is the legit Microsoft file. You may check its Properties to reconfirm. If it is located elsewhere it could well be a virus. You need to scan your system with your antivirus software to remove it.
