Windows 11, Microsoft’s modern and sleek operating system, brings a host of advanced features, including the Microsoft Store, where users can download a wide range of free and paid apps. However, after a Windows 11 update, you may encounter issues where apps fail to open or close immediately after launching. If you’re facing this problem, where your favorite apps won’t open up, don’t worry, it’s common and fixed with a few efforts. This article explores why apps may not open on Windows 11, including step by step solutions.
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Why Apps Not Opening or Closing Immediately
There can be several reasons for this problem, but the most common are corrupted system files, compatibility issues with certain apps, or Corrupted App Data are common.
- Incomplete or Failed Updates: If an update isn’t completed properly, it could lead to app malfunctions.
- Compatibility Issues: Some updates may introduce compatibility issues with certain apps, particularly if the apps haven’t been updated to align with the latest Windows version.
- Corrupted System Files: System files may become corrupted during the update process, leading to broader issues with app functionality.
- User Account Issues: Sometimes, the issue may be tied to the specific user account, and switching or resetting the account can resolve the problem.
- Malware or Viruses: Malicious software can interfere with app execution, causing them to crash or not open.
Run wsreset.exe in the Run dialog (Win + R) to clear the Microsoft Store cache, which can fix Store-related app issues.
Restart Your Computer
Before diving into more complex solutions, restart your computer. A simple restart can fix temporary glitches caused by updates, as it refreshes system processes and clears memory.
- Click the Start menu (Windows icon).
- Select Power > Restart.
- After rebooting, try launching the problematic app to see if the issue is resolved.
Run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter
Windows 11 includes a built-in troubleshooter to diagnose and fix issues with Microsoft Store apps automatically. Run the troubleshooter and let Windows automatically detect and fix the problem for you.
- Go to Settings by pressing Windows + I.
- Navigate to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Locate Windows Store Apps and click Run.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to let Windows detect and fix issues like incorrect app settings, missing files, or account conflicts.
- Restart your PC and test the app.
The troubleshooter scans for common problems, such as corrupted app data or misconfigured permissions, and applies fixes without manual intervention. It’s a quick first step for Store app issues.
Update Windows 11
Sometimes, a subsequent update or patch can fix issues introduced by a previous update. Let’s manually check for and install the latest Windows updates.
- Press the Windows + I keyboard shortcut to open the settings app.
- Go to Windows Update > Check for updates.
- Download and install any available updates, including optional updates for drivers or features.
- Restart your PC to apply changes.
- Now check with open any app if working normally.
Reset the problematic app
Again if any specific app causing the problem, such as Microsoft Store won’t open or Microsoft Store closes immediately after opening reset the app its default setup probably helps fix the problem. You can reset any specific app on Windows 11 by following the steps below.
Resetting clears the app’s cache, settings, and temporary files, restoring it to a fresh state as if newly installed, which often resolves crashes or launch failures.
- Open Settings (Win + I), navigate to Apps > Installed apps.
- Search for the problematic app (e.g., Microsoft Store) and click the three-dot menu next to it.
- Select Advanced options > Reset.
- Confirm the reset when prompted (note that this deletes the app’s data).
- Restart your PC and try launching the app.
Reinstall the Problematic App
Reinstalling removes the app entirely from your system, including any corrupted or outdated files, and installs a fresh copy from the Microsoft Store. This can resolve issues that resetting couldn’t fix.
- Open Settings (Win + I) > Apps > Installed apps.
- Find the problematic app, click the three-dot menu, and select Uninstall.
- Open the Microsoft Store, search for the app, and click Install.
- Launch the app to check if the issue is resolved.
Reinstalling eliminates any residual corrupted files or settings that resetting might not address, ensuring a clean installation.
Check for System File Corruption
Again, Corrupted system files can cause a wide range of issues, including app malfunctions.Use the System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tools to repair them.
Open Command Prompt as Administrator (Win + S, search “cmd,” right-click, select Run as administrator).
Run the following commands in order:
- DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth (this repairs the Windows image).
- sfc /scannow (this scans and repairs corrupted system files).
SFC replaces corrupted or missing system files with correct versions, while DISM ensures the Windows image is healthy, addressing underlying issues affecting apps.
Wait for each command to complete (may take several minutes). Restart your PC and test the app.
Disable Proxy Connection
Incorrect proxy settings can prevent Microsoft Store apps from connecting to the internet, causing them to fail or crash. Disabling it ensures apps like the Microsoft Store can connect to Microsoft’s servers, resolving network-related launch issues.
- Search for and open “Internet Options”.
- Select “Internet Options,” which opens up the “Internet Properties” window.
- Under the “Connections” tab, click on “LAN Settings.”
- Uncheck the “Use Proxy server” option and click on “OK”.
Create a New User Account
Sometimes, app issues can be caused due to corrupt user profiles or account settings. Creating a new user account helps you determine if the problem is account-specific.
- Open Settings (Win + I) > Accounts > Family & other users.
- Under Other users, click Add account.
- Select I don’t have this person’s sign-in information > Add a user without a Microsoft account.
- Enter a username and password, then click Next.
- Log out and sign in with the new account.
- Test the problematic app in the new account.
A new user account starts with fresh settings, bypassing corrupted profile data that may be causing app issues. If the app works, consider transferring your data to the new account.
Again, Malware and viruses can cause a wide range of issues, including preventing apps from opening or causing them to close immediately. Running a full system scan with Windows Security or another trusted antivirus program can help identify and remove any threats, potentially resolving the app issues.
