How To Fix Start Button Not Working Windows?

The Windows 10 Start Menu is a vital component of the operating system, allowing users to access their favorite apps and features with ease. However, it can be frustrating when the Start Menu stops working or becomes unresponsive. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore seven effective solutions to fix the Windows 10 Start Menu not working issue. Whether your Start Menu freezes, fails to open, or crashes, these solutions will help you get it back up and running smoothly.

Windows 10 users may encounter various issues with their Start Menu, such as it freezing, not opening, or crashing. These issues can be caused by corrupted system files, outdated drivers, or other underlying problems. Fortunately, there are several solutions you can try to resolve these issues and restore the functionality of your Start Menu.

Restart Your Computer

One of the simplest and most effective solutions for fixing the Windows 10 Start Menu not working issue is to restart your computer. Restarting your system helps clear temporary files, refresh system settings, and close any programs that may be causing conflicts. To restart your computer:

1. Click on the Start button in the bottom left corner of your screen.
2. Select the Power icon.
3. Click on Restart.

Wait for your computer to reboot and then check if the Start Menu is working properly. If the issue persists, proceed to the next solution.

Restart Windows Explorer

Windows Explorer, now known as File Explorer, is responsible for managing the Start Menu, taskbar, and other system components. Restarting the Windows Explorer process can often resolve issues with the Start Menu. Follow these steps to restart Windows Explorer:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
2. Click on the More details button at the bottom of the Task Manager window.
3. In the Processes tab, scroll down and locate Windows Explorer.
4. Right-click on Windows Explorer and select Restart.

Give it a moment to restart, and then check if the Start Menu is functioning correctly. If not, proceed to the next solution.

Repair Corrupt or Missing System Files

Corrupted or missing system files can cause the Start Menu to malfunction. Windows 10 includes a built-in tool called System File Checker (SFC) that scans and repairs these files. To run the SFC tool:

1. Press Win + X and select Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin).
2. In the command prompt window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.

The SFC tool will scan your system for corrupt files and attempt to repair them. This process may take some time, so be patient. Once it’s completed, restart your computer and check if the Start Menu is working correctly.

If the SFC tool was unable to fix all the corrupt files, you can also try using the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool. Follow these steps to run the DISM tool:

1. Open an elevated command prompt or PowerShell as mentioned earlier.
2. Type DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth and press Enter.
3. Wait for the process to complete and then restart your computer.

Running both the SFC and DISM tools can help repair any underlying issues with system files that may be causing the Start Menu problem.

Update Your Drivers

Outdated or incompatible drivers can also contribute to Start Menu issues in Windows 10. To ensure that your drivers are up to date, follow these steps:

1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager from the menu.
2. Expand the categories and locate the drivers you want to update (e.g., Display adapters, Sound, video, and game controllers).
3. Right-click on the driver and select Update driver.
4. Choose the option to Search automatically for updated driver software.

Windows will search for the latest driver updates and install them if available. Once the updates are installed, restart your computer and check if the Start Menu is functioning properly.

Reset the Start Menu

If the previous solutions didn’t resolve your Start Menu issues, you can try resetting the Start Menu to its default settings. To do this:

1. Press Win + X and select Windows PowerShell (Admin).
2. In the PowerShell window, copy and paste the following command:
   Get-AppXPackage -AllUsers | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}

3. Press Enter to execute the command.

This command will reinstall the default Windows apps, including the Start Menu. Wait for the process to complete and then restart your computer. Check if the Start Menu is now functioning correctly.

Reset Your Windows 10 Installation

If all else fails, you can consider resetting your Windows 10 installation. This option should be used as a last resort, as it will remove all installed programs and settings. Before proceeding, make sure to back up your important files. To reset your Windows 10 installation:

1. Press Win + X and select Windows PowerShell (Admin).
2. In the PowerShell window, type systemreset and press Enter.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to reset your Windows 10 installation.

After the reset is complete, set up your computer again and check if the Start Menu is now working properly.

Conclusion

The Windows 10 Start Menu is a crucial feature for accessing apps and features quickly. If you encounter issues with the Start Menu not working, try the solutions presented in this guide. Restarting your computer, restarting Windows Explorer, repairing corrupt system files, updating drivers, resetting the Start Menu, or resetting your Windows 10 installation can help resolve the problem. If the issue persists, you may need to seek further assistance from Microsoft support or a qualified technician.

Experiencing difficulties with your Device, check out our “How To” page on how to resolve some of these issues.