How to Fix Apps Not Opening on Windows 10/11
Apps not opening on Windows 10 or 11 can be frustrating, whether it’s a built-in app or a third-party program. This issue can be caused by corrupt files, outdated software, or conflicts within the operating system. Fortunately, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve the issue.
1. RESTART YOUR COMPUTER
Before trying anything complex, restart your PC. A reboot can resolve temporary glitches and restore normal app functionality.
- Click Start and select Restart.
- Try opening the problematic app again.
2. CHECK FOR WINDOWS UPDATES
Keeping Windows updated ensures system stability and app compatibility.
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Install any available updates and restart your PC.
3. RUN WINDOWS STORE APPS TROUBLESHOOTER
If you are having trouble with Microsoft Store apps, running the built-in troubleshooter can help.
- Open Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
- Click Additional troubleshooters.
- Select Windows Store Apps and click Run the troubleshooter.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
4. REPAIR OR RESET THE APP
If a specific app is not opening, try repairing or resetting it.
- Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
- Find the problematic app and click on it.
- Select Advanced options.
- Click Repair first. If that doesn’t work, click Reset.
5. REINSTALL THE APP
If repairing or resetting the app does not work, try reinstalling it.
- Press Win + X and select Apps and Features.
- Locate the problematic app, click Uninstall, and confirm.
- Restart your PC and reinstall the app from the Microsoft Store or its official website.
6. CHECK APP PERMISSIONS
Some apps require specific permissions to function correctly.
- Open Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
- Click the app and select Advanced options.
- Ensure required permissions such as Camera, Microphone, or File Access are enabled.
7. RUN SYSTEM FILE CHECKER (SFC) AND DISM
Corrupt system files may prevent apps from launching. Running SFC and DISM can fix these issues.
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Type the following commands and press Enter after each:
sfc /scannow dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth - Restart your PC after the scan completes.
8. RE-register MICROSOFT STORE APPS
If default apps aren’t opening, re-registering them may help.
- Open PowerShell as Administrator.
- Copy and paste the following command, then press Enter:
Get-AppXPackage | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"} - Restart your PC and try opening the apps again.
9. CHECK FOR BACKGROUND SERVICES
Some apps rely on background services that may have stopped running.
- Press Win + R, type
services.msc, and press Enter. - Look for services like Windows Update, App Readiness, and Windows Store Service.
- If any are disabled, right-click and select Start.
10. PERFORM A CLEAN BOOT
A clean boot helps identify conflicts with third-party software.
- Press Win + R, type
msconfig, and press Enter. - Go to the Services tab and check Hide all Microsoft services.
- Click Disable all, then go to the Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
- Disable startup programs one by one.
- Restart your PC and check if the apps open.
FINAL THOUGHTS
If your apps are not opening on Windows 10 or 11, one of these methods should help resolve the issue. If the problem persists, consider creating a new user profile or performing a Windows reset. Let us know which solution worked for you!