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How to Fix Windows 10 Error Opening Help: Step-by-Step Solutions That Work

Windows 10 users sometimes encounter an error when trying to open the Help feature. This issue can be frustrating, especially when you need quick assistance. Fortunately, fixing this problem is usually straightforward with the right steps.

The Help app is vital because it provides guidance directly from Microsoft. When it doesn’t open, it can slow down your troubleshooting or learning process. This article will guide you through simple and effective ways to resolve the “Error Opening Help” problem on Windows 10.

Each step is explained clearly and in order, starting from easy fixes to more detailed solutions. You don’t need to be a tech expert to follow along.

Let’s get started and get your Help feature working again as soon as possible.

Quick Note Before You Begin

Before diving into the solutions, check the following:

  • Make sure your Windows 10 is up to date. Sometimes updates fix bugs automatically.
  • Verify that your internet connection is stable because some Help content requires online resources.
  • Close all other applications before trying the fixes to prevent conflicts.
  • Back up important files, just in case you need to perform advanced steps.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, the simplest fix is the best. Restarting your computer can clear temporary glitches that cause the Help app to fail.

  1. Click on the Start button.
  2. Select Power and then click Restart.
  3. After the system restarts, try opening the Help app again.

This step refreshes your system and may resolve minor conflicts.

Step 2: Run the Windows Troubleshooter for Apps

Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter that can detect and fix problems with apps, including the Help app.

  1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
  2. Go to Update & Security.
  3. Click on Troubleshoot from the left menu.
  4. Scroll down and select Windows Store Apps.
  5. Click Run the troubleshooter and follow the on-screen instructions.

This tool scans for common issues and repairs them automatically, which often fixes Help-related errors.

Step 3: Reset the Help App

If the Help app itself is corrupted, resetting it can restore its functionality without deleting your personal data.

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Apps and then Apps & features.
  3. Scroll down to find Get Help or simply search for it in the search box.
  4. Click on the app name, then select Advanced options.
  5. Scroll down and click the Reset button.
  6. Confirm the reset and wait for it to complete.
  7. Try opening the Help app again.

Resetting solves issues caused by broken files or settings within the app.

Step 4: Check for System File Corruption

Corrupted system files can stop Windows features from working properly. Using the System File Checker (SFC) tool repairs these files.

  1. Type cmd in the search bar.
  2. Right-click on Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
  3. In the black window, type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

The tool will scan and fix damaged system files automatically. This process may take some time, so be patient.

After it finishes, restart your computer and see if the Help app opens correctly.

Step 5: Re-register the Help App Using PowerShell

If the Help app is still not working, re-registering it can fix deeper app registration problems.

  1. Press Windows + X and select Windows PowerShell (Admin).
  2. In the PowerShell window, type the following command and press Enter:
Get-AppxPackage *Microsoft.GetHelp* | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)AppXManifest.xml"}

This command reinstalls and re-registers the Help app with Windows, correcting any issues with its installation.

Once done, try opening the Help app again.

Alternative Method: Use the Online Microsoft Support Website

If the built-in Help app keeps giving errors, you can access all Help content online directly from Microsoft’s support site.

Visit https://support.microsoft.com and search for the help topics you need. This is a reliable alternative that works regardless of app issues.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does the Help app show an error when opening?

Common reasons include corrupted app files, system file errors, outdated Windows versions, or temporary glitches.

Is it safe to reset the Help app?

Yes, resetting the app only restores its settings to default and does not delete any personal files.

Will updating Windows fix the Help error?

Often, yes. Updates include bug fixes that may resolve Help app issues automatically.

Can third-party antivirus software cause this problem?

Sometimes, antivirus programs block certain Windows features. Try temporarily disabling your antivirus and test the Help app.

What if the System File Checker finds errors but cannot fix them?

In this case, you may need to run the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool to repair the Windows image.

How do I run DISM?

Open Command Prompt as administrator and type:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Press Enter and wait for the process to finish, then restart your PC.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and the Help app still won’t open, consider these final options:

  • Create a new user account: Sometimes user profiles become corrupted. Creating a new account can help isolate the problem.
  • Perform a Windows Reset: Use the “Reset this PC” feature to reinstall Windows without affecting your files. This can fix deep system issues.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit Microsoft Support for direct assistance.

These options are more advanced but effective when all else fails.

Conclusion

Fixing the Windows 10 “Error Opening Help” issue involves a few straightforward steps. Start with simple actions like restarting your PC and running the troubleshooter. If problems persist, resetting the Help app or repairing system files often resolves deeper issues.

Remember, keeping your system updated and regularly checking for corrupted files helps maintain a smooth Windows experience. If you ever get stuck, Microsoft’s online resources and support teams are there to assist.

With this guide, you now have the tools to quickly fix Help app errors and get the assistance you need right on your Windows 10 device.

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