Alex Ruben
How to Fix Apps and Games Not Opening in Windows 11
If you’re experiencing issues with applications and games not opening on Windows 11, you’re not alone. Many users face these frustrating problems, but fortunately, there are effective troubleshooting methods available. This guide will walk you through the common issues like Discord not opening, CSGO failing to launch, or even the Control Panel being inaccessible. By following the steps outlined here, you’ll learn how to effectively diagnose and resolve these issues, restoring your applications and games to full functionality.
Step 1: Check for Corrupt Files
Sometimes, apps and games fail to open due to corrupted files in your system. To check for these issues, you can use the built-in System File Checker tool.
- Press Windows + X and select Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
- Type
sfc /scannowand press Enter. - Wait for the process to complete and follow any prompted instructions to repair corrupt files.
Step 2: Reset System Settings
If your desktop icons aren’t functioning, resetting certain system settings could resolve the issue.
- Go to Settings by pressing Windows + I.
- Navigate to System > About.
- Click on Advanced system settings and under the System Properties window, tap Settings under Performance.
This can help refresh your desktop configuration and resolve issues causing apps to not open.
Step 3: Check App Permissions
Ensure that the application has the necessary permissions to run on your system.
- Right-click on the application icon, and select Properties.
- Go to the Security tab and check if your user account has permission to Read & Execute.
Step 4: Repair File Associations
If EXE files are not opening, it’s possible that file associations have been changed. Here’s how to repair them:
- Open Settings and navigate to Apps.
- In the left pane, select Default apps.
- Scroll down and click on Reset under Reset to the Microsoft recommended defaults.
Step 5: Update or Repair the App
Outdated applications can also be the cause of opening issues. For specific apps like Discord or CSGO:
- Visit the respective app’s website or platform to see if an update is available.
- Follow the instructions to update or, if necessary, reinstall the application.
Step 6: Reset Browser Settings
If you are facing issues with browsers like Opera not opening, resetting your browser settings may help.
- Open your browser and go to Settings.
- Find the option for Reset and clean up and proceed to reset settings to their original defaults.
Step 7: Ensure System Services Are Enabled
If the Control Panel or Registry Editor is not opening, you may need to re-enable necessary system services.
- Press Windows + R, type
services.msc, and hit Enter. - Look for services that are disabled and right-click to start them if necessary.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
Additional steps can include running Windows Updates, which ensures your operating system has the latest security patches and fixes. Check for updates by going to Settings > Windows Update.
Conclusion
By following these troubleshooting steps, you can effectively resolve issues where apps and games are not opening in Windows 11. Always remember to regularly update your system and applications to minimize future problems. For more technical tips and guides, explore further resources and stay informed on best practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my app not opening at all?
Possible reasons include corrupted system files, insufficient permissions, or outdated software. Troubleshooting with the steps outlined above can help resolve these issues.
How do I fix Steam not opening?
Repairing the installation of the Steam client may help. Ensure you right-click on the Steam icon and select Run as administrator.
What if I can’t access the settings?
If Windows Settings are unresponsive, consider accessing them via the PowerShell command start ms-settings: from the Run dialog.