The default Start menu received the biggest overhaul with the Windows 11 update. Along with the obvious central position, the Start menu also gains pinned apps, recommendations, and shortcuts to frequently used folders. All of this becomes irrelevant when the all-new Start menu stops working in the first place. Here's how to fix a Start menu not working in Windows 11.
The Start menu houses all your apps. It's a core feature of Windows 11. A non-functioning Start menu in Windows 11 can be frustrating and prompt you to install third-party Start menu alternatives from the web. Follow the methods below to restore your Start menu in Windows 11.
1. Restart Windows Explorer
The taskbar, Start menu, and action center are all part of the Windows Explorer service. When you experience problems with Windows 11 taskbar Or from the Start menu, you can restart the Windows Explorer service and try again.
Step 1: Use keys Ctrl + Shift + Esc Open the menu Task management.
Step 2: From the tab Operations , Locate Windows Explorer.
Step 3: Click on the button Reboot down and close Task manager.
Try accessing the Start menu again.
2. Restart the menu services.
By default, Start Menu services start running in the background as soon as you turn on your computer. If there are problems with background services and processes, you need to reset the Start Menu service. Here's how.
Step 1: Press the keys Ctrl + Shift + Esc and open Task manager.
Step 2: Go to the tab "the details".
Step 3: Look for StartMenuExperienceHost.exe from the list.
Step 4: Click on it and select finish the job At the bottom.
3. Use the Start Menu app to troubleshoot.
In 2019, when Microsoft messed up the Start Menu's functionality with a feature update, the company released a Start Menu Troubleshooter app to fix the issue. Here's how to use it in 2021.
Step 1: Visit link below and install Windows Start Menu Troubleshooter app.
Download the Start Menu Troubleshooter
Step 2: Open The application and select Advanced menu At the bottom.
Let Microsoft fix the Start menu not working issue in Windows 11 and try again.
4. Remove third-party Start menu apps
In an attempt to give their Windows desktop an aesthetic makeover, users often end up installing third-party task managers and Start menu widgets. While they help you modify the appearance of the Start menu, they can disrupt the service's basic functionality. You need to identify and remove these applications from your computer.
Step 1: Open an app Windows Settings (Use keys Windows + I).
Step 2: Go to List Applications.
Step 3: Locate Apps and features.
Step 4: Find this Applications From the menu, click on Menu. Three point Next to her.
Select Uninstall and remove apps from Windows 11.
5. Rebuild the search index
The Universal Search menu is part of the Start menu. Microsoft collects your search history to provide relevant and faster search results. If the search database becomes corrupted, Start menu functionality may be impaired. You need to rebuild the search index on your computer. Here's how to do it.
Step 1: Press the keys Windows + R and open Playlist.
Step 2: Type control /name Microsoft. IndexingOptions And press OK At the bottom.
Step 3: A menu will open. Indexing options. Locate Modification At the bottom.
Step 4: Locate Show all locations.
Step 5: cancel Select all locations from the menu and click "OK".
Step 6: Select the button "Advanced Options" And click "Reconstruction" From a list Troubleshooting
Restart your computer and try using the Start menu.
6. Update graphics drivers
Outdated graphics drivers may interfere with Windows user interface elements such as the Start menu. You can update your graphics drivers to the latest version from the Device Manager menu.
Step 1: Use keys Windows + X Open the menu Device management.
Step 2: Find a card Integrated or external graphics From the menu, right-click on it.
Step 3: Locate Driver Update and do Download Latest drivers from the web.
7. Update Windows operating system
If the Start menu not working on Windows 11 is a widespread issue, Microsoft will release an update to fix the issue.
You can go to Settings (Using keys Windows + I) and list Update and security. Qom Download The latest version of Windows 11, and the Start menu will now work.
Restore the Start Menu on Windows 11
There's a lot to like about the new Start menu in Windows 11. It's an integral part of the operating system. If you're having trouble accessing the Start menu, the steps above should help. Which trick worked for you? Share your results in the comments below.