Adobe Reader runs on Windows Server – This error is very common in instances where the user tries to use the preview capabilities of Adobe Reader on a Windows Server version (most commonly Windows Server 2016).

So if this scenario is applicable, you can fix the issue by opening Adobe Reader and accepting Accepting the EULA. As it turns out, Adobe EULA’s needs to be accepted before the application is able to preview files externally.

Adobe Reader’s EULA wasn’t accepted – Another scenario in which this error will occur is a new Adobe Reader installation that was never opened before.

Some users facing this issue have managed to get it fixed by accessing the LAN Settings and disabling the Automatically detect settings option.

Internet Auto Detect is Enabled – As it turns out, one potential cause with the potential of causing the PDF Preview Handler error is a setting called Internet Auto Detect.

Once allowed, you will see the preview pane in action, and the option itself will be highlighted with a white or blue border & background. You can also enable the preview pane by clicking on the “View -> Preview Pane” option. As soon as you press the shortcut, you will see the Preview Pane to the right of the File Explorer. Press the “Alt key + P” keyboard shortcut to turn on or enable the preview pane. The file preview pane in the File Explorer can be enabled by clicking on the “Preview Pane” option or with a keyboard shortcut. Enable or turn on preview pane in File Explorer

This quick and straightforward guide will show you how to enable or disable the preview pane in File Explorer with just a few clicks or a keyboard shortcut. However, if your screen is small, you might have to disable the preview pane to increase the screen space. You can drag it sideways to increase or decrease the overall area occupied by the preview pane. Generally, the preview pane is not that big and occupies a limited space only. By default, the Preview Pane will appear to the right side of the File Explorer.

Preview on windows explorer