How to Fix Start Menu Not Opening in Windows 10?

Windows 10 start menu not working or not opening is a common issue that can cause frustration for many users. Sometimes, the start menu will crash and not respond, and sometimes it won’t open at all when you click the start menu button. In this post, we are going to talk about why Windows 10 start menu not working won’t open and freeze, and how to fix this issue effectively.

Overview of the Start Menu issue in Windows 10

The Start Menu is an essential part of Windows 10, as it provides quick access to apps, settings, and files. However, many users have reported issues with the Start Menu not opening or crashing. This can be frustrating, as it can slow down your work and make it difficult to access important files and applications.

Importance of fixing the Start Menu issue

Fixing the Start Menu issue is important because it can affect your productivity and workflow. When the Start Menu is not working, it can be challenging to access important files and applications quickly, which can slow down your work. Additionally, a malfunctioning Start Menu can be a sign of more significant problems with your system, such as malware infections or corrupted system files.

Possible Causes of Start Menu Not Opening in Windows 10

Before we jump into the fixes, we should have a brief understanding of the causes of the Windows 10 start menu not opening. The main reasons include:

  • Some operating system files related to the start menu are corrupted
  • Cortana temporary files are corrupted
  • An unspecific Windows update bugs cause the start menu to freeze
  • The start menu under a specific Windows account crashed
  • Windows Explorer on your system is expired or contains corrupted files

Now that we know these factors may cause these start menu not working problem, we can take the methods below to troubleshoot. And if you think this passage is useful in fixing Windows 10 start menu not working, click the social buttons to share.

Note: You should back up your important files before trying any of the following solutions. None of us can afford to lose essential data.

How to Fix Start Menu Not Opening in Windows 10

Method 1: Restart your computer

The first and simplest method to try is to restart your computer. Sometimes, the issue can be caused by a temporary glitch in your system, which can be resolved by restarting your computer. To do this, click on the “Start” menu, then click on the “Power” button and select “Restart”.

Method 2: Run Windows troubleshooter

Windows comes with a built-in troubleshooter that can help diagnose and fix common issues with your system. To run the troubleshooter for the Start Menu issue, follow these steps:

  1. Click on the “Start” menu and type “troubleshoot” in the search bar.
  2. Select “Troubleshoot settings” from the search results.
  3. Scroll down and click on “Windows Store Apps” under “Find and fix other problems”.
  4. Click “Run the troubleshooter” and follow the on-screen instructions.

Method 3: Check for updates

Windows updates often contain fixes for common issues, including the Start Menu not opening. To check for updates, follow these steps:

  1. Click on the “Start” menu and select “Settings”.
  2. Click on “Update & Security”.
  3. Click on “Check for updates”.
  4. If updates are available, click “Download and install”.

Method 4: Reinstall the Start Menu app

If the Start Menu issue is caused by a corrupted app, you can try reinstalling the app to fix the problem. To do this, follow these steps:

  1. Right-click on the “Start” menu and select “Windows PowerShell (Admin)”.
  2. Type “Get-AppXPackage -AllUsers | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register “$($_.InstallLocation)AppXManifest.xml”}” and press Enter.
  3. Wait for the process to complete and then restart your computer.

Note: This method will reinstall all built-in Windows apps, including the Start Menu app.

Method 5: Create a new user account

If the issue is specific to your user account, creating a new user account can solve the problem. To create a new user account, follow these steps:

  1. Click on the “Start” menu and select “Settings”.
  2. Click on “Accounts”.
  3. Click on “Family & other users”.
  4. Click on “Add someone else to this PC”.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to create a new user account.
  6. Log out of your current account and log in with the new user account to see if the issue is resolved.

Additional Tips for Preventing Start Menu Issues in Windows 10

In addition to the methods mentioned above, here are some additional tips to help prevent Start Menu issues in Windows 10:

Regularly update your Windows operating system

Keeping your Windows operating system up-to-date is essential for ensuring that your system runs smoothly and is free from bugs and issues. Regularly checking for updates and installing them can help prevent future Start Menu issues.

Avoid installing conflicting third-party software

Some third-party software can cause conflicts with the Start Menu and other system components. Be cautious when installing new software, and make sure to read user reviews and research any potential issues before installation.

Use reliable antivirus software

Malware and viruses can cause various issues with your system, including problems with the Start Menu. Protect your system by using reliable antivirus software and regularly scanning for threats.

Perform regular system maintenance

Regular system maintenance can help prevent issues with the Start Menu and other Windows components. Perform tasks such as disk cleanup, disk defragmentation, and error checking to keep your system running smoothly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Windows 10 Start Menu not opening issue can be frustrating, but with the methods and tips provided in this post, you can effectively fix the problem and prevent future issues. Remember to regularly update your Windows operating system, avoid installing conflicting third-party software, use reliable antivirus software, and perform regular system maintenance to ensure a smooth and problem-free experience with your Windows 10 system. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a hassle-free Start Menu and an overall better user experience on your computer.

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