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Computer basics
An app will not open on my computer. What should I try?
When one app will not open, the whole computer may be fine. Start with a restart, then check updates and whether the app is the only thing failing.
The short answer
Restart the computer, try opening a different app, check for updates, then reinstall the broken app from the official source if needed.
Now try it on your device
Choose your path
Pick the device or situation that matches the screen in front of you.
Steps for Windows
- 1Restart the computer.
- 2Try opening another app.
- 3Check Windows Update.
- 4If only one app fails, uninstall it and reinstall from the Microsoft Store or the app's official website.
One safety note
Do not download replacement apps from lookalike websites.
Before you change settings
1Notice whether one app fails or every app fails.
2Write down the exact error message.
3Make sure storage is not completely full.
What to know first
What this usually means
- The app needs an update.
- The computer needs a restart.
- Storage is too full for the app to open cleanly.
- The app is old and no longer works with the current operating system.
Do not do this yet
- Do not download replacement apps from lookalike websites.
- Do not ignore a security warning just to open an unknown app.
- Do not delete app data unless you know it is backed up.
Copy this to Emily
You do not need perfect technical words. Send the plain version and a screenshot if you have one.
The app [name] will not open on my [Windows/Mac] computer. The message says [message]. What should I try?