How to Fix the “Item Might Not Exist or Is No Longer Available” Error in Windows 11

Sometimes, when you try to open a file or folder in Windows 11, you may see an error message saying, “Item might not exist or is no longer available.” This can be confusing and frustrating, especially if you know the item should be there. Fortunately, this issue usually has simple fixes that anyone can try.

This error often happens due to broken shortcuts, deleted files, or syncing problems. By following a few easy steps, you can usually resolve the problem and access your files again.

In this article, we will guide you through clear and basic methods to fix this error. Each step is explained carefully, so you don’t need any technical background.

Let’s get started and make sure your files and folders open smoothly on Windows 11.

Quick Note Before You Begin

Before trying any fixes, it’s good to check a few things. These simple checks can save you time and avoid unnecessary troubleshooting.

Confirm the file or folder still exists: Sometimes, the item may have been moved or deleted accidentally. Try searching for it using the Windows search bar to see if it shows up elsewhere.
Check your network connection: If the file is on a network drive or cloud service, make sure you are connected to the internet or the relevant network.
Restart your computer: A simple restart can fix temporary glitches that might cause the error.
Verify permissions: Ensure you have the right permissions to access the file or folder, especially on shared devices or drives.

Step 1: Refresh or Rebuild the Shortcut

One common reason for this error is a broken shortcut. If you are opening the file through a shortcut, it might be pointing to a location that no longer exists.

Right-click the shortcut that shows the error and select Properties.
Look at the Target field to see where the shortcut points.
Go to that location using File Explorer to check if the file or folder is there.
If the original item has been moved, create a new shortcut directly from the current location by right-clicking the file and selecting Create shortcut.
Delete the old shortcut to avoid confusion.

Why this matters: Shortcuts only work if the original item stays in the same place. Moving or deleting the file breaks the shortcut, causing this error.

Step 2: Use File Explorer to Navigate Directly

Instead of relying on shortcuts or pinned links, try opening the file or folder manually through File Explorer.

Open File Explorer by pressing Windows + E.
Navigate step-by-step to the folder or file’s original location.
If you can find and open the item this way, consider updating your shortcuts or favorites to this verified location.

This method helps confirm whether the file or folder actually exists or if it was moved or deleted.

Step 3: Check and Repair File System Errors

Sometimes, errors with the storage drive can cause Windows to incorrectly report missing items. Running a disk check can fix these issues.

Press the Windows key, type Command Prompt, then right-click it and select Run as administrator.
In the command window, type chkdsk /f and press Enter.
You might get a message that the drive is in use. Type Y to schedule the check at the next restart.
Restart your computer to allow Windows to scan and fix any errors on your drive.

Why this helps: Disk errors can cause missing files or folders to appear invisible or inaccessible. Fixing the disk can restore normal access.

Step 4: Clear File Explorer History

File Explorer stores a history of frequently accessed files and folders. Sometimes this cache can cause issues with shortcuts or links.

Open File Explorer, then click on the three-dot menu icon in the toolbar and select Options.
Under the General tab, find the Privacy section.
Click the Clear button to remove File Explorer history.
Restart File Explorer or your computer and try accessing the item again.

Clearing this cache can fix confusion caused by outdated or broken references in File Explorer.

Step 5: Check Sync Settings for Cloud Storage

If your files are stored in cloud services like OneDrive or Google Drive, syncing problems may cause this error.

Open your cloud app (OneDrive, Google Drive, etc.) and check if it is running and properly signed in.
Look for any sync errors or paused syncing.
Try pausing and resuming sync, or restart the cloud app.
Make sure the file or folder is fully synced to your device and not just available online.

Why this matters: Files that are only available online and not downloaded locally may appear missing if offline or if sync is broken.

Alternative Method: Use System File Checker

If none of the above steps work, corrupted system files might cause the problem. Running the System File Checker can help.

Open Command Prompt as an administrator (see Step 3).
Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
Wait for the scan to complete. It will automatically repair corrupted system files if found.
Restart your computer and check if the error is resolved.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why do I get “Item might not exist or is no longer available” even though the file is there?

This can happen if the shortcut or reference is broken, or if the file is stored on an external or network drive that is disconnected.

Can antivirus software cause this error?

Yes, some antivirus programs may block access to files or quarantine them. Check your antivirus logs or temporarily disable it to test.

Is it possible to recover a deleted file that causes this error?

If the file is deleted, check the Recycle Bin first. If it’s not there, you may need file recovery software or restore from backups.

Does this error happen only with shortcuts?

No, it can also occur with pinned files, network locations, or cloud storage links that are no longer valid.

How do I prevent this error in the future?

Keep your files organized, avoid moving or deleting files without updating shortcuts, and ensure your cloud sync is always active and healthy.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and still see the error, it might be time to seek advanced help. You can visit the official Microsoft support page for Windows 11 or reach out to a professional technician.

Here are some useful links:

Backing up important data regularly can also prevent data loss if files become inaccessible.

Conclusion

The “Item might not exist or is no longer available” error in Windows 11 is a common issue that usually has straightforward solutions. Starting with simple checks, like verifying the file’s existence and refreshing shortcuts, can quickly fix the problem.

More advanced steps like running disk checks or system scans help resolve deeper system or disk issues. Always ensure your cloud storage is syncing correctly if you use it for file management.

By following the steps in this guide carefully, you can regain access to your files and avoid this frustrating error in the future.