Alex Ruben
Fixing Apps and Games Not Opening in Windows 11: A Complete Guide
If you’re experiencing problems with apps and games not opening in Windows 11, you’re not alone. Many users face this frustrating issue, whether it’s Discord not launching, games crashing, or applications failing to respond. Fortunately, there are several effective solutions to resolve these problems. In this comprehensive guide, you will learn how to troubleshoot and fix various issues related to applications and games not opening on your Windows 11 computer.
Step 1: Restart Your PC
Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve issues where apps or games fail to open. Restarting your computer clears temporary files, refreshes the system, and can resolve minor glitches. Before proceeding to more complex solutions, try restarting your computer and see if this resolves the issue.
Step 2: Update Windows and Your Apps
Ensuring your Windows operating system and applications are up to date can significantly improve stability and resolve bugs. Follow these steps:
- Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
- Navigate to Update & Security.
- Click on Check for updates and install any available updates.
- Also, update your apps via the Microsoft Store by clicking on the Library icon and selecting Get updates.
After the updates, restart your PC again to apply the changes.
Step 3: Repair or Reset Specific Apps
If a particular app is not opening, consider repairing or resetting it. To do this:
- Go to Settings and select Apps.
- Select Apps & features from the menu.
- Find the app that is not opening, click on it, and select Advanced options.
- You can then choose to either repair or reset the app.
Repairing keeps app data intact, while resetting deletes all app data, including settings and preferences.
Step 4: Run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter
Windows offers built-in troubleshooters that can help identify and fix common issues. To run the Windows Store Apps troubleshooter:
- Open Settings and navigate to Update & Security.
- Click on Troubleshoot and then Additional troubleshooters.
- Select Windows Store Apps and click Run the troubleshooter.
Follow the on-screen instructions and apply any recommended fixes.
Step 5: Clear the Microsoft Store Cache
Corrupt cache files can often cause issues with app launching. You can clear the Microsoft Store cache by following these steps:
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
- Type
wsreset.exeand hit Enter.
This command will reset the Microsoft Store cache without altering your installed apps.
Step 6: Run SFC and DISM Scans
If system corruption is preventing apps from opening, running a System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) scan may help. Here’s how:
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator by searching for cmd, right-clicking, and selecting Run as administrator.
- Run the following commands one by one:
sfc /scannowDISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealthDISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealthDISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
These commands check for and repair corrupted system files, which may resolve your issue.
Step 7: Check and Restart Windows Services
Some apps rely on specific Windows services to operate. Locating and restarting these services may fix your issue. Here’s how to check:
- Press Windows + R, type
services.msc, and press Enter. - In the Services window, locate Windows Update and Application Identity services.
- Right-click on each service and select Restart.
Once restarted, try opening your app again.
Step 8: Create a New User Account
If the issue persists, creating a new user account can help determine whether the issue is user-specific. To create a new account:
- Go to Settings and select Accounts.
- Click on Family & other users.
- Select Add someone else to this PC and follow the instructions.
Log into the new account and check if the apps open correctly.
Step 9: Uninstall Recent Windows Updates If Needed
If you suspect a recent Windows update caused the issue, you can uninstall the update:
- Open Settings and navigate to Update & Security.
- Click on View update history.
- Select Uninstall updates at the top of the window.
- Choose the desired update and click Uninstall.
Always consider running a backup before removing updates to avoid data loss.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
Some additional notes to streamline your troubleshooting:
- Always ensure your firewall and antivirus settings are not blocking apps.
- Check for background apps that may be conflicting with the ones not opening.
- Consider using the Windows Feedback Hub to report critical issues to Microsoft.
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the issue of applications and games not opening on your Windows 11 device. Remember to take these actions thoughtfully, and your system should return to normal functionality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won’t my apps open in Windows 11?
Apps may fail to open due to system corruption, outdated software, or issues with Windows services. Troubleshooting steps like restarting, updating, or resetting applications are usually effective in resolving such issues.
How can I troubleshoot Windows Store problems?
To troubleshoot Windows Store issues, try running the built-in troubleshooter, clearing the cache, and updating both Windows and the app itself. Running SFC and DISM scans can also help repair system errors related to the Store.
What can I do if my game does not launch?
If a specific game isn’t launching, you can verify game files via the game launcher (like Steam), check for updates, and ensure that any necessary background services are running. Reinstalling the game may also be a last resort option.