this file can't be previewed because of an error with the pdf preview handler

[megan33350539be6y]

I am having trouble previewing PDFs in the Windows Explorer preview pane.  I am running Windows 11. I have tried everything I can think of, reinstalling Acrobat Reader, making it the default program, etc. I can preview Word files and images, so this problem only occurs with PDF files.

[Glockheavy]

I'm having this issue with one of my customer's computers.  She recently purchased a Surface laptop 15 with the new arm-based chips. I was wondering if there may be a compatibility issue. I've gone through each step listed in the forums and have yet to find a solution. 

[radzmar]

The Windows explorer preview pane has nothing to do with Acrobat Reader. If it's not working, you need to fix your windows. Reinstalling Reader won't fix anything about this. 

[cheryl_7203 · Accepted solution]

I have found the easiest way to fix this is to select the Menu > Help > Repair installation

See attached screen shot for details.