Fix App Crash on Windows 10: Step-by-Step Guide

If an app keeps crashing on Windows 10, the fix usually involves updating the app, updating Windows, or resetting the app. Start with the specific troubleshooting steps below, from quick checks to deeper system repairs, and you’ll likely resolve the issue without reinstalling Windows.

Why Apps Crash on Windows 10

App crashes on Windows 10 can stem from several sources. The most common are:

• Outdated app or driver – The app may not be compatible with the latest Windows updates, or a hardware driver (like graphics) is outdated.
• Corrupted app files – A partial update, disk error, or malware can damage the app’s executable or its supporting files.
• Insufficient system resources – Running too many programs at once can exhaust RAM or CPU, causing apps to close unexpectedly.
• Background apps interfering – Antivirus software, overlays (like Discord or GeForce Experience), or other background processes may conflict with the app.
• Windows system file corruption – If core Windows files are damaged, many apps may crash randomly.

Identifying the exact cause is the first step to choosing the right fix. The following steps work for most Windows 10 versions (Home, Pro, Enterprise) and both Store and desktop apps.

Quick Checks Before Deep Troubleshooting

Before you dive into advanced commands, try these quick checks—they solve a surprising number of crashes:

• Restart the app – Close it completely (check the system tray) and reopen it.
• Restart your PC – This clears temporary glitches and frees up memory.
• Check for updates – Open the Microsoft Store (if it’s a Store app) and click “Get updates”. For desktop apps, check the app’s own update option or the developer’s website.
• Run Windows Update – Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and click “Check for updates”. Install any pending updates and restart.
• Update drivers – Especially graphics and chipset drivers. Use Device Manager or the manufacturer’s website (like Intel, AMD, or NVIDIA).

If these don’t help, move to the more targeted fixes below.

Repair and Reset the App

Windows 10 includes built-in repair and reset options for apps from the Microsoft Store. These often fix crashes without losing your data.

1. Open Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
2. Find the crashing app in the list and click on it.
3. Click Advanced options (only available for Store apps).
4. Click Repair. Windows will try to fix the app without deleting your data. Test the app.
5. If it still crashes, click Reset. This will delete the app’s data (like logins and settings) and reinstall the app. You’ll need to set it up again.

For desktop (non-Store) apps, you can try reinstalling the app manually. Uninstall it via Settings > Apps > Apps & features, then download the latest version from the official website and install it again. This often clears corrupted files.

Run the Windows App Troubleshooter

Windows 10 has a built-in troubleshooter specifically for app problems. It automatically checks for common issues and applies fixes.

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
2. Click Additional troubleshooters.
3. Select Windows Store Apps and click Run the troubleshooter.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions. It may take a few minutes.

This tool can fix issues with app registration, permissions, and corrupted cache. If it finds problems, it will usually fix them automatically. After it completes, restart your PC and test the app.

Check for System File Corruption

If multiple apps are crashing, or the crashes persist after repair, Windows system files may be corrupted. Use the built-in System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) to repair them.

1. Right-click the Start button and select Windows PowerShell (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
2. Run DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth and press Enter. This repairs the Windows image. It may take 10-20 minutes.
3. After DISM completes, run sfc /scannow and press Enter. This scans and repairs system files.
4. Restart your PC after both commands finish.

These commands are safe and won’t touch your personal files. They are the standard fix for system file corruption on Windows 10.

Adjust Compatibility and Performance Settings

Sometimes older apps crash on Windows 10 due to compatibility issues. You can run the app in compatibility mode for an earlier Windows version.

1. Right-click the app’s shortcut or executable file and select Properties.
2. Go to the Compatibility tab.
3. Check Run this program in compatibility mode for: and select a previous version, like Windows 8 or Windows 7.
4. Also try checking Run this program as an administrator if the app needs admin rights.
5. Click Apply and test the app.

If the app still crashes, try the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter (right-click the executable and select “Troubleshoot compatibility”). It will walk you through testing different settings.

Performance-related crashes can also be mitigated by disabling visual effects for the app or increasing virtual memory. For virtual memory, go to Settings > System > About > Advanced system settings > Performance Settings > Advanced > Virtual memory. Set it to “System managed size” if it isn’t already.

Prevent Future Crashes

After fixing the immediate crash, adopt these habits to reduce the chance of recurrence:

• Keep Windows and drivers updated regularly.
• Uninstall apps you no longer use to free up resources.
• Avoid installing apps from unverified sources.
• Run a periodic malware scan with Windows Defender or a trusted third-party tool.
• If an app crashes only when you use a specific feature (like a printer or camera), check that device’s driver.

If the app still crashes after all these steps, the problem may be with the app itself—check the developer’s support page for known issues or contact them directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my app crash on startup?
This often indicates a corrupted installation or a missing dependency (like a runtime library). Try repairing or resetting the app, and ensure your Windows is fully updated. If it’s a desktop app, reinstalling may help.

Will resetting an app delete my data?
Yes, resetting a Store app will delete its local data, including settings, logins, and saved files within the app. Your actual documents (like photos or documents) are safe if they are stored elsewhere. Always back up important app data before resetting.

Can a virus cause app crashes?
Yes, malware can damage app files or interfere with system processes. Run a full Windows Defender scan or a reputable antivirus tool to rule this out.

Should I reinstall Windows to fix app crashes?
Only as a last resort. Reinstalling Windows will remove all your apps and settings, so it’s a drastic step. Try all other fixes first, including system file repair and driver updates.

Why does only one specific app crash?
If other apps work fine, the issue is likely with that app itself—corrupted files, an outdated version, or a conflict with a specific driver. Focus on repairing or reinstalling that app, and check its compatibility settings.

How do I know if a driver is causing crashes?
Check the Windows Event Viewer (under Windows Logs > Application) for error entries that mention the app and a specific driver. You can also update your graphics and chipset drivers, as they are common culprits.

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