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How to Fix Calculator App Not Working on Windows 11: Complete Troubleshooting Steps

The Calculator app is a handy tool built into Windows 11, used daily by many for quick calculations. However, sometimes it may stop working or fail to open. This can be frustrating, especially when you need it for simple tasks.

Fortunately, fixing the Calculator app is usually straightforward. In this guide, we will walk you through easy troubleshooting steps to get it running again.

Each step is explained clearly and designed for users at all levels, so you don’t have to be a tech expert to follow along.

Let’s start by checking a few quick things before diving into detailed fixes.

Quick Note: Preliminary Checks

  • Restart your computer: Sometimes a simple reboot clears temporary glitches causing the Calculator app to malfunction.
  • Check for Windows updates: Updating your system ensures you have the latest bug fixes and improvements.
  • Confirm Calculator app version: Make sure the app is up-to-date via Microsoft Store.
  • Check if other apps work: This helps identify if the issue is only with Calculator or affects other apps too.

Step 1: Restart the Calculator App

Sometimes the Calculator app may freeze or crash. Closing and reopening it can resolve this.

  1. Click the Start button or press the Windows key.
  2. Type “Calculator” in the search bar.
  3. If the app appears, right-click on it and select Close window (if open).
  4. Wait a few seconds, then click the app again to open it.

This simple step refreshes the app and often fixes minor issues.

Step 2: Run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter

Windows includes a troubleshooter designed to detect and fix problems with apps like Calculator.

  1. Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  3. Scroll down to find Windows Store Apps and click Run.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.

This tool can automatically fix issues related to app installation or functionality.

Step 3: Reset the Calculator App

If the app still doesn’t work, resetting it can clear corrupted data without affecting your files.

  1. Open Settings by pressing Windows key + I.
  2. Navigate to Apps > Installed apps.
  3. Scroll and find Calculator, then click the three dots next to it.
  4. Select Advanced options.
  5. Scroll down and click Reset. Confirm the action.

Resetting reverts the app to its default state, which often resolves deeper issues.

Step 4: Reinstall the Calculator App

If resetting doesn’t help, reinstalling the app can replace missing or damaged files.

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Windows Terminal (Admin) to open a command prompt with administrator rights.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter to uninstall Calculator:
Get-AppxPackage *windowscalculator* | Remove-AppxPackage
  1. After uninstalling, open Microsoft Store.
  2. Search for Calculator and click Install to download the app again.
  3. Once installed, open it to check if it works properly.

Reinstalling ensures you have a fresh copy of the app, which can fix many problems.

Step 5: Check for System File Corruption

Corrupt system files can sometimes cause apps to malfunction. Running a system scan can help detect and repair these files.

  1. Open Windows Terminal (Admin) again.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

This command scans all protected system files and repairs corrupted ones automatically. The process may take some time, so be patient.

Alternative Method: Use PowerShell to Re-register Calculator

If reinstalling didn’t work, you can try re-registering the Calculator app using PowerShell.

  1. Open Windows Terminal (Admin).
  2. Enter the following command and press Enter:
Get-AppxPackage -allusers *windowscalculator* | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)AppXManifest.xml"}

This command reinstalls and registers the Calculator app for all users on your system.

FAQs

Why does my Calculator app keep crashing?

Crashes often happen due to corrupted app data, outdated system files, or conflicts with other software. Resetting or reinstalling the app usually helps.

Can I use an alternative calculator if the app won’t open?

Yes, you can use online calculators via your browser or third-party calculator apps from the Microsoft Store as temporary alternatives.

Will resetting the Calculator app delete my data?

No, resetting the Calculator app only clears its temporary data and settings. It won’t affect your personal files.

How do I update the Calculator app?

Open Microsoft Store, go to Library, and check for updates. If Calculator has an update, you can install it from there.

Is it safe to uninstall and reinstall the Calculator app?

Yes, uninstalling and reinstalling from the Microsoft Store is safe and often fixes app issues.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above solutions fix the Calculator app, you can try a few final steps:

  • Create a new user account: Sometimes user profile corruption causes app issues. Testing with a new account can help isolate the problem.
  • Perform a system restore: If the issue started recently, restoring your PC to an earlier point may resolve it.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft support for further assistance.

Conclusion

The Calculator app not working on Windows 11 can be fixed with a few simple steps, starting from restarting the app to reinstalling it. Checking for system updates and running built-in troubleshooters are effective ways to solve common problems.

Resetting and reinstalling the app usually resolve most issues, while system scans fix underlying file corruption. If all else fails, creating a new user or contacting Microsoft support are good final options.

Following this step-by-step guide will help you get your Calculator app back in working order quickly and with minimal hassle.

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