Why Does Windows 11 Keep Saying ‘No Such Interface Supported’ and How Can You Fix This Annoying Error?

What Causes the Devastating ‘No Such Interface Supported’ Error in File Explorer and How Do You Eliminate It Forever?

The “No Such Interface Supported” error in Windows 11 File Explorer can completely disrupt your daily computer tasks. I’ve helped countless users overcome this frustrating problem, and I want to share the exact solutions that work.

This error typically appears when you try to open files through File Explorer or launch specific applications. The system essentially tells you it can’t communicate properly with the interface needed to complete your request. Don’t worry – this isn’t as complicated as it sounds, and you can fix it.

Understanding Why This Error Happens

Your Windows system relies on multiple components working together seamlessly. When the “No Such Interface Supported” error appears, it means something has broken this communication chain. Here’s what usually causes this problem:

• System file corruption happens more often than you’d think. Windows updates, sudden shutdowns, or disk errors can damage critical files that File Explorer needs to function properly.
• DLL file problems occur when Dynamic Link Library files become unregistered or corrupted. These files are like instruction manuals that tell your programs how to work with Windows.
• User profile issues can prevent File Explorer from accessing the interfaces it needs. Sometimes your user account settings get scrambled, causing widespread problems.
• Application conflicts arise when recently installed programs interfere with existing system components. This is especially common with media players and file viewers.

Solution 1: Quick Fixes to Try First

Before diving into complex solutions, try these simple steps that often resolve the issue immediately:

• Restart your computer to clear temporary glitches
• Right-click the problematic file and select “Open with” to choose a different program
• Try opening the file from a different location, like your desktop
• Update the application that’s causing problems through the Microsoft Store

If these quick fixes don’t work, move on to the detailed solutions below.

Solution 2: Repair Your Problematic Applications

Most “No Such Interface Supported” errors stem from corrupted applications. Windows 11 includes built-in repair tools that can fix these issues without losing your data.

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings. Click “Apps” in the left sidebar.
2. Select “Installed apps” and find the application causing problems.
3. Click the three dots next to the app name and choose “Advanced options.”
4. Scroll down to find the “Repair” button and click it. Windows will attempt to fix the application while preserving your settings and data.
5. If repair doesn’t work, try the “Reset” option. This returns the app to its original state but removes your personal settings.

After completing these steps, restart your computer and test the application. If problems persist, uninstall and reinstall the program completely.

Solution 3: Fix Corrupted System Files

Corrupted system files are a major cause of interface errors. Windows includes a powerful tool called System File Checker that can automatically find and repair these problems.

1. Type “cmd” in the Windows search bar, right-click “Command Prompt,” and select “Run as administrator.”
2. In the command window, type exactly: sfc /scannow
3. Press Enter and wait. This process can take 15-30 minutes depending on your system.

The scan will automatically repair any corrupted files it finds. You’ll see a message when it’s complete telling you what was fixed.

After the scan finishes, restart your computer and check if File Explorer works properly.

Solution 4: Re-Register Critical DLL Files

DLL files are essential for Windows to communicate with applications. When these become unregistered, you get interface errors. Here’s how to fix them:

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator (same as above).
2. Type this command and press Enter:

   regsvr32 c:\windows\system32\actxprxy.dll

3. If the error continues, run this more comprehensive command:

   FOR /R C:\ %G IN (*.dll) DO "%systemroot%\system32\regsvr32.exe" /s "%G"

Important warning: The second command re-registers ALL DLL files on your system. This process takes a long time and should only be used if the first command doesn’t work. Create a backup before running it.

Solution 5: Check for Disk Problems

Hard drive errors can cause interface problems by preventing Windows from accessing necessary files. The Check Disk utility can find and fix these issues.

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
2. Type: chkdsk C: /r /v (replace C: with your system drive if different)
3. If prompted to schedule the scan for next restart, type “Y” and press Enter.
4. Restart your computer. The scan will run automatically before Windows loads.

This process can take several hours on large drives, but it’s thorough and effective at fixing disk-related interface problems.

Solution 6: Create a New User Account

Sometimes your user profile becomes corrupted, causing widespread interface errors. Creating a new account helps determine if this is the problem.

1. Go to Settings > Accounts > Other users.
2. Click “Add account” and follow the setup process.
3. Sign in with the new account and test File Explorer.

If everything works with the new account, your original profile has corruption issues. You can either migrate to the new account or attempt profile repair using system restore.

Advanced Troubleshooting Steps

When standard fixes don’t work, try these additional solutions:

1. Move files to your desktop and open them from there. This bypasses potential folder permission issues.
2. Disable startup programs that might interfere with File Explorer. Use Task Manager’s Startup tab to disable non-essential programs.
3. Run a malware scan using Windows Defender or your preferred antivirus. Malicious software can corrupt system interfaces.
4. Use System Restore to return your computer to a point before the error started appearing.

Prevention Tips

Keep these practices in mind to avoid future interface errors:

• Install Windows updates promptly but create restore points first
• Avoid installing multiple programs that handle the same file types
• Run regular disk cleanup and defragmentation
• Backup important files before making system changes
• Use reputable antivirus software and keep it updated

When to Seek Additional Help

If none of these solutions resolve your “No Such Interface Supported” error, you might need professional assistance. Consider contacting Microsoft support or a local computer technician if:

• The error affects multiple applications consistently
• System restore points don’t resolve the issue
• You’re uncomfortable running command-line tools
• The problem started after hardware changes

The “No Such Interface Supported” error can be incredibly disruptive, but it’s almost always fixable with the right approach. Start with the simpler solutions and work your way through the more advanced options. Most users find success with application repair or system file checking.

Remember to backup your important files before attempting major repairs. While these solutions are generally safe, having a backup provides peace of mind and protects against unexpected issues.