The default Start menu got the biggest overhaul with the Windows 11 update. Besides the prominent middle position, the Start menu also gets pinned apps, suggestions and shortcuts for frequently used folders. All that matters when the brand new Start menu stops working in the first place. Here is how to fix the Start menu not working in Windows 11.
The start menu houses all your applications. This is a core function of Windows 11. The fact that the Start menu does not work in Windows 11 can frustrate you and push you to install third-party Start menu alternatives from the web. Follow the methods below and get back to the Start menu in Windows 11.
1. Restart Windows Explorer
The taskbar, Start menu, and Action Center are part of the Windows Explorer service. When you have problems with the Windows 11 Taskbar or Start menu, you can restart the Windows Explorer service and try again.
Stage 1: Use the Ctrl + Shift + Esc keys and open the Task Manager menu.
Step 2: Select Windows Explorer from the Processes tab.
Stage 3: Click the Restart button at the bottom and close Task Manager.
Try accessing the start menu again.
2. Restart Start Menu Services
By default, Start menu services start running in the background as soon as you turn on the computer. If there are problems with background services and processes, you need to reset the Start menu service. Here’s how.
Stage 1: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc and open Task Manager.
Step 2: Go to the Details tab.
Stage 3: To find StartMenuExperienceHost.exe from the menu.
Step 4: Click on it and select End task at the bottom.
Restart the computer using the Alt + F4 keys (You can’t restart the computer using the traditional method since your Start menu is not working) and see if the Start menu works again.
3. Use the Start Menu Troubleshooter App
In 2019, when Microsoft messed up the Start menu functions with a feature update, the company released the Start menu troubleshooter to fix the problem. Here’s how to use it in 2021.
Stage 1: Visit the link below and install the Start menu troubleshooter on Windows.
Step 2: Open the app and select the Advanced menu at the bottom.
Stage 3: Enable the Apply repairs automatically option and click the Next button.
Let Microsoft fix the Start menu not working issue in Windows 11 and try again.
4. Uninstall Third-Party Start Menu Apps
In order to give the Windows desktop an aesthetic appearance, users often install third-party task managers and Start menu tools. While it may help you change the start menu appearance, it may break the core functionality of the service. You need to identify such applications and remove them from the computer.
Stage 1: Open the Windows Settings app (use Windows + I keys).
Step 2: Go to the Applications menu.
Stage 3: Select Apps & features.
Step 4: Find such apps from the list and click the three-dot menu next to it.
Select Uninstall and delete apps from Windows 11.
5. Rebuild Search Index
The universal search menu is part of the Start menu. Microsoft collects search history to provide relevant and faster search results. If the search database gets corrupted, it can interfere with the Start menu functions. You need to rebuild the search index on your PC. Here’s how to do it.
Stage 1: Press Windows + R keys and open the Run menu.
Step 2: Medicine Check Microsoft /name.IndexingOptions and press the arrow at the bottom.
Stage 3: It will open the Indexing Options menu. Select Change at the bottom.
Step 4: Select Show all locations.
Step 5: Uncheck all the locations in the list and click OK.
Step 6: Select the Advanced button and click Rebuild from the Troubleshoot menu.
Restart your computer and try using the Start menu.
6. Update Graphics Drivers
Outdated graphics drivers can affect Windows UI elements such as the Start menu. You can update the graphics drivers to the latest version from the Device Manager menu.
Stage 1: Use Windows + X keys and open the Device Manager menu.
Step 2: Find an integrated or external graphics card from the list and right-click on it.
Stage 3: Select Update driver and download the latest drivers from the web.
7. Update the Windows operating system
If the Start menu not working in Windows 11 is a common problem, Microsoft will release an update to fix it.
You can go to Settings (use Windows + I keys) and Update & Security menu. Download the latest Windows 11 build and the Start menu should start working now.
Go Back to Working Start Menu in Windows 11
There’s a lot to love about the new Start menu in Windows 11. It is an integral part of the operating system. If you’re having trouble accessing the Start menu, the steps above should help you fix it. Which trick worked for you? Share your findings in the comments below.
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