You’re in a rush, trying to access a crucial app on your Windows 10 computer, and suddenly it refuses to open. Frustrating, right? We’ve all been there. However, the good news is that this common hiccup often has straightforward solutions. This guide will take you through different approaches to restore the functionality of your apps.
Common Causes of App Malfunctions
Corrupted system files: It’s like having a book with missing pages. If a system file gets corrupted, certain apps might fail to open. This can be caused by malware, accidental deletions, or even power outages.
Incorrect app settings: Ever played around with an app’s settings and regretted it later? Incorrect configurations might prevent it from launching.
Outdated software: Just like expired milk, outdated software can cause issues. Apps might malfunction if they or their related drivers aren’t up-to-date.
Step-by-Step Guide to Resolving the Issue
1: Restart your computer
- Close any open applications.
- Click the Windows button and choose “Restart.”
- Wait for your computer to reboot fully before trying the application again.
2: Update your apps and system
- Open the Microsoft Store.
- Click on the three-line menu (usually bottom-left) and select “Library.”
- Click “Get Updates” and allow any available updates to install.
- Separately, go to Settings > Update & Security and click “Check for updates” to ensure your Windows system is up-to-date.
3: Reset the specific app
- Navigate to Settings > Apps & features.
- Locate and choose the troublesome app from the provided list.
- Click on “Advanced Options.”
- Scroll further down and tap on the “Reset” button. Confirm the action if prompted.
4: Run the Windows Store troubleshooter
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters.
- Click on “Windows Store Apps” and run the troubleshooter.
- Observe the instructions provided on the screen and implement any suggested solutions.
5: Check for Windows updates
- Navigate to Settings > Update & Security.
- Click “Check for updates.”
- Install any updates that are available, and if prompted, proceed to restart your computer.
6: Reinstall the app
- Right-click the app’s icon on the Start Menu and select “Uninstall.”
- Open the Microsoft Store, search for the app, and click “Install.”
Once you’ve gone through these steps, the app should hopefully open without any issues. If not, there might be deeper issues at play, and further troubleshooting or professional assistance might be required.
Tips to Avoid Such Issues in the Future
- Only download apps from reputable sources, primarily the Microsoft Store, which verifies app integrity.
- Exercise caution when using third-party app stores or downloading apps directly from websites, as they might potentially contain malware or unstable versions of applications.
- Consider using cloud storage solutions like OneDrive, Dropbox, or Google Drive to automatically backup essential files.
- Schedule regular full system backups using tools like Windows Backup and Restore or third-party software.
- Schedule regular disk cleanups using the built-in Disk Cleanup tool to remove temporary files, system cache, and other unnecessary data.
- Use built-in or third-party antivirus to regularly scan and protect your system from threats.
- Before installing new software, especially system utilities or drivers, check for compatibility with your Windows version.
- If using beta or experimental versions of apps or drivers, be prepared for potential instability and consider creating a system restore point beforehand.
By following these tips, you can minimize the chances of encountering issues with apps not opening and maintain a stable and responsive Windows 10 system.
Conclusion
Dealing with apps that won’t open can be a test of patience, but armed with the above knowledge, you’re well-equipped to handle such issues. Stay informed, stay updated, and your apps should run smoothly.