ByMany Windows 11 users have reported that when they right-click on a folder, it automatically opens the folder in a new tab instead of opening the normal context menu. This problem is not only annoying but can also slow down your system’s performance and multitasking capabilities.
We have analyzed this problem in depth and have prepared 7 guaranteed solutions that can fix this error immediately. If you are also facing this problem, then this detailed guide is for you.
Why does this problem occur? (Why does Mouse Right Click Open Folder in New Tab?)
This problem in Windows 11 can usually occur due to the following reasons:
Bugs in third-party mouse software
Corrupted Explorer settings
Faulty mouse driver
Corrupted registry entries
Bugs in Windows File Explorer
Glitches in new Windows updates
Conflicts caused by third-party tools like WinRAR, 7-Zip, or extensions
Now try the following seven solutions one by one.
1. Restart File Explorer (Easiest Solution)
Sometimes the problem is simply due to processes stuck in File Explorer.
How to do it:
1. Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc
2. Find Windows Explorer in the list
3. Right-click on it and select Restart
Now check again by right-clicking on a folder.
2. Reset Windows 11 Folder Options Settings
Incorrect File Explorer settings can also cause this error.
How to do it:
1. Open File Explorer
2. Click on the three dots at the top
3. Select Options
4. Go to the View tab
5. Click on the two buttons below:
Restore Defaults
Reset Folders
This will restore the folder behavior to its default state.
3. Disable Sticky Keys or Mouse Settings
Sometimes, incorrect mouse settings or extra click functions can cause folders to open in a new tab.
Check:
1. Open Settings
2. Go to Bluetooth & Devices > Mouse
3. Ensure that:
The double-click speed is set correctly in Additional Mouse Options
There are no custom button assignments
If you are using mouse software from Logitech, Redgear, HP, or another brand, reset that as well.
4. Fix Corrupt Explorer Keys in the Registry
Corrupt entries in the Windows Registry can cause the mouse right-click function to malfunction.
How to do it:
1. Press Win + R
2. Type: regedit
3. Navigate to the following path:
“`
HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Directory\shell
“`
4. If you find any extra suspicious entries here, such as:
NewTab
Open In New Window
Custom Action
Delete them (with caution)
Note: Do not delete the wrong keys.
5. Update or Reinstall Mouse Drivers
Outdated or corrupted mouse drivers can also cause the right-click function to malfunction.
How to update:
1. Right-click on Start → Device Manager
2. Expand Mice and Other Pointing Devices
3. Right-click on your device
4. Select Update Driver
If the problem persists, uninstall the driver and restart your system.
6. Run System File Checker (SFC and DISM)
Corrupted Windows system files can cause these kinds of problems.
Commands:
Run the following commands one by one in Command Prompt (Admin):
“`
sfc /scannow
“`
After that:
“`
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
“`
These commands repair Windows system files and remove Explorer errors.
7. Check for Windows Updates or Uninstall Recent Updates
Sometimes, new Windows updates contain bugs that cause Explorer to behave incorrectly. There are two ways:
A. Install new updates (if any are available)
Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates
B. Uninstall recent problematic updates
1. Settings → Windows Update
2. Update History
3. Scroll down → Uninstall Updates
4. Uninstall the recent update
Now restart your system and check.
Additional Solutions (if the problem persists)
1. Disable File Explorer Tabs (Windows 11 22H2+)
Some users have experienced a bug due to the tabs feature.
2. Check Shell Extensions
Third-party apps (WinRAR, 7-Zip, PowerISO) sometimes add incorrect context menu entries.
These can be disabled using the ShellExView tool.
3. Perform a Clean Boot
If background software is causing the problem, a Clean Boot might be the solution.
Conclusion
If your mouse right-click is opening folders in a new tab, one of the 7 fixes above will surely solve your problem.
We have included all possible causes and in-depth solutions for this bug in Windows 11 in this guide.
If you are a computer user and frequently encounter new problems with your system, bookmark this page—because we provide you with the latest tech solutions daily.
Want to grow your website organically? Contact us now
FAQ – Mouse Right Click Opening the Folder in a New Tab?
1. Why does my mouse right-click open the folder in a new tab?
This problem is usually caused by a File Explorer bug, incorrect mouse settings, registry errors, third-party software conflicts, or faulty drivers.
2. Can restarting File Explorer fix this problem?
Yes, in many cases, simply restarting File Explorer immediately resolves this issue.
3. Could this problem be related to the mouse hardware?
Yes, if your mouse has a double-click bug or its drivers are corrupted, the right-click action might behave incorrectly.
4. Is it safe to edit the registry?
Yes, but caution is necessary. Deleting incorrect entries can cause further system problems. Only delete entries that seem suspicious.
5. What if this problem started after a Windows update?
You can uninstall the recent update or install a new update to resolve the issue.
6. Can third-party tools like 7-Zip or WinRAR cause this problem?
Yes, their context menu extensions can interfere with File Explorer’s functionality.
7. Can SFC and DISM fix this problem?
If the problem is due to corrupted system files, both SFC and DISM can fix it.
8. Does this problem occur in Windows 10 as well, or only in Windows 11?
This problem can occur in both operating systems, but it is more common in Windows 11 due to the File Explorer tabs feature.
9. Should I update my mouse driver?
Yes, if the problem is driver-related, updating or reinstalling the driver will be helpful.
10. What are Shell Extensions?
These are context menu options added by third-party applications. Corrupted or unwanted extensions can cause File Explorer to behave incorrectly.
