Sometimes, apps like CX File Explorer stop working for no clear reason. They might crash, freeze, or even block you from opening your own files. That can be super annoying, especially when you need to manage files fast. While this app is pretty good, it can still run into problems like any other app. But don’t worry—this simple guide will help you fix most problems step by step, even if you’re not a tech expert.
Start with the Basic Fixes First
Before you try big fixes, it’s smart to start with small ones. A lot of people fix their problem by doing these first steps.
Update the App and Your Phone
Old apps and phone systems cause many problems. If your app or phone system is out of date, it might crash or freeze more.
To fix it:
- Open the Google Play Store and check if CX File Explorer needs an update.
- Go to your phone’s Settings > System > Software Update. If there’s an update, install it.
New Android updates change how apps work with storage. If your app is old, it may not know how to deal with those changes.
Force Stop the App and Open It Again
Sometimes the app just gets stuck. You don’t lose anything by force-stopping it.
To do that:
- Go to Settings > Apps > CX File Explorer.
- Tap “Force Stop”.
- Then, go back to your apps and open it again.
This refreshes the app and removes small bugs from memory.
Clear the App’s Cache (Not Data)
If the app is slow or crashes, the cache might be the problem. Cache is just leftover data from past use.
- Go to Settings > Apps > CX File Explorer.
- Tap “Storage & Cache”.
- Hit “Clear Cache”.
Don’t tap “Clear Storage” yet. That will erase all your bookmarks, saved folders, and app settings.
Fixing Permission and Access Errors
A lot of problems happen because Android changed how apps can use storage. This includes Scoped Storage and SAF, which block apps unless you give permission.
“Access Denied” Error Fix
If you see this error, the app may not have permission to open files. Or Android removed the permission by itself.
Here’s what to do:
- Go to Settings > Apps > CX File Explorer > Permissions.
- Tap on “Files and Media” or “Storage”.
- Set it to “Deny”.
- Force Stop the app.
- Go back and set the permission to “Allow” again.
This resets the permission and tells Android to allow the app to access your files.
Fix Problems with SD Cards or USB Drives
A common question is, “Why doesn’t CX File Explorer see my SD card or USB drive?” The answer is usually permission again.
- Open Settings.
- Search for “Special App Access” or go to “Apps > Special Access”.
- Tap “All Files Access”.
- Find CX File Explorer and allow it.
After this, when you open the app and try to open your SD card, it may ask for permission. Make sure to tap “Use This Folder” and hit OK. That tells Android it’s okay to give full access.
Fixing Crashes and Freezes
If the app keeps crashing or freezes often, something inside the app might be broken.
Clear the App’s Data (After Backing Up)
If clearing cache didn’t help, you can try clearing the app’s data. This puts the app back to its default state.
Important: Before doing this, write down or take screenshots of your saved bookmarks and folder paths. You’ll lose them.
To clear the data:
- Go to Settings > Apps > CX File Explorer.
- Tap “Clear Storage” or “Clear Data”.
- Open the app again like it’s brand new.
This removes broken files or settings inside the app that might be causing the crash.
Turn Off Security or Battery Saver Apps Temporarily
Some third-party security or “booster” apps block file manager apps by mistake. These apps think CX File Explorer is unsafe, even when it’s not.
Try turning off apps like these:
- Battery saver apps
- Antivirus apps
- Cleaner apps
After turning them off, open CX File Explorer again. If it works fine, then you know one of those apps is the problem. Go into the settings of that app and allow CX File Explorer through.
Fixing Network or Hidden File Problems
CX File Explorer can also manage network storage, FTP, and cloud drives. If you have problems here, try these tips.
Can’t Connect to LAN or FTP?
If you get errors like “LAN connection failed,” it could be your Wi-Fi, router, or login.
Try this:
- Make sure your computer is awake and not in sleep mode.
- Check the firewall on your computer. It might block the ports (like 21 for FTP or 445 for LAN).
- Double-check your username and password. Even a small mistake can block access.
If everything looks okay and the app still won’t connect, restart your Wi-Fi router.
Files Are Missing but Show on a PC?
Sometimes you open a folder in the app, and files are just not there—but when you plug the phone into your PC, the files show up.
This could be caused by a hidden file called .nomedia, or your app isn’t set to show hidden files.
To fix it:
- Open CX File Explorer.
- Tap the three lines in the top left (menu).
- Tap “Settings” or “View Options”.
- Make sure “Show Hidden Files” is turned ON.
If you still don’t see files, go into the folder and check if there’s a.nomediafile. If yes, delete it. That file tells Android to hide everything in that folder.
Last Option: Backup Your Stuff or Try a New App
If you’ve tried everything and the app is still broken, you may need to reset or try something else.
Backup Before Resetting
There’s no backup button inside CX File Explorer, but you can still write down or copy your settings.
- Take screenshots of your bookmarks.
- Write down your FTP login info or folder paths.
If you reset the app by clearing storage, you’ll be able to set it back up faster.
Good Alternative Apps
If nothing works, you can use another app while CX File Explorer gets fixed. Some good options include:
- Solid Explorer
- Total Commander
These apps also work well with Android’s new storage rules. They support network storage and show hidden files too.
Most problems in CX File Explorer come from permission issues or Android updates. If you go step by step—starting with updates, resetting permissions, clearing data, and checking hidden settings—you can fix most of them. Sometimes it’s not the app at all, but something else like another app, your SD card, or your network. With a little patience, you can usually get it working again.