SOLVED: Start Menu Not Working in Windows 11

The Start Menu is essential to Windows 11, providing quick access to applications, settings, and files. However, some users experience issues with the Start Menu becoming unresponsive, not opening, or crashing frequently. 

Fortect analyzes the causes behind your Start Menu not working in Windows 11, identifies practical fixes, and offers effective troubleshooting solutions.

Why Is the Start Menu Not Working in Windows 11?

Several factors can cause the Start Menu to stop working:

• Corrupted system files – Essential Windows files may be damaged.
• Outdated or incompatible drivers – Faulty drivers can disrupt system functions.
• Windows Explorer glitches – A stuck or unresponsive explorer process can cause issues.
• Conflicting third-party software – Some applications may interfere with the Start Menu.
• Pending Windows updates – Outdated system versions can lead to functionality errors.
• Corrupt user profile – User account issues may prevent the Start Menu from loading.

How to Fix Start Menu Not Working in Windows 11

Below are step-by-step solutions to resolve this issue and restore the Start Menu’s functionality.

1. Restart Windows Explorer

Windows Explorer controls the Start Menu and taskbar. Restarting it can resolve temporary glitches:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Find Windows Explorer under the Processes tab.
3. Right-click it and select Restart.
4. Check if the Start Menu is now working.

2. Run the System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Corrupt system files can cause Start Menu malfunctions. Running SFC and DISM can repair them:

1. Press Win + X and select Terminal (Admin).
2. Run the following command to scan and fix files:
3. sfc /scannow
4. If the issue persists, run these DISM commands:
5. DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
6. Restart your PC and check the Start Menu.

3. Update Windows

Windows updates often contain bug fixes that resolve Start Menu issues:

1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to Windows Update.
3. Click Check for updates and install any available updates.
4. Restart your PC.

4. Reinstall Start Menu Components

If the Start Menu is still unresponsive, try reinstalling its components:

1. Open Terminal (Admin).
2. Run the following command:
3. Get-AppxPackage Microsoft.Windows.StartMenuExperienceHost | Reset-AppxPackage
4. Restart your PC and check the Start Menu.

5. Create a New User Account

If your user profile is corrupted, creating a new account may help:

1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
2. Go to Accounts > Family & other users or Emails & Accounts
3. Click Add Account and follow the on-screen instructions.
4. Log in with the new Account and check if the Start Menu works.

6. Check for Driver Issues

Outdated or corrupt drivers can affect system functions, including the Start Menu. Updating drivers can help:

1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand Display adapters and Keyboard sections.
3. Right-click each device and select Update driver.
4. Choose Search automatically for drivers and follow the prompts.

Suppose you want a hassle-free way to update all outdated drivers and fix system issues; consider using Fortect with a built-in driver updater. It scans your PC for corrupted drivers and updates them instantly, ensuring smooth performance.

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7. Reset Windows 11 (Last Resort)

If nothing works, resetting Windows 11 may be necessary:

1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
2. Go to System > Recovery.
3. Click Reset PC and select Keep my files.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset.

Conclusion

A non-functional Start Menu in Windows 11 can be frustrating, but following these troubleshooting steps should help resolve the issue. Whether restarting Windows Explorer, updating drivers, or performing system repairs, these solutions will restore your Start Menu’s functionality. If the problem persists, using Fortect can automate system repairs and driver updates, ensuring a smoother Windows experience.