BlueStacks is a popular Android emulator used on Windows PCs. Sometimes, after updating to the Windows 11 Anniversary Update, BlueStacks may stop working. This can be frustrating if you rely on it for apps or games.
The issue often arises due to compatibility or system setting changes introduced by the update. Fortunately, there are straightforward ways to fix BlueStacks and get it running smoothly again.
In this guide, you will find simple, step-by-step instructions to resolve BlueStacks not working after the Anniversary Update on Windows 11. No technical expertise is needed to follow along.
By the end, you should have BlueStacks working like before, or know what to do if the problem persists.
Quick Note: Before You Start
- Make sure your Windows 11 is fully updated with the latest patches.
- Check that your PC meets BlueStacks’ minimum system requirements.
- Ensure you have administrative rights on your computer for making system changes.
- Close BlueStacks completely (use Task Manager if needed) before trying these fixes.
Step 1: Restart Your PC
Sometimes the simplest solution works. Restarting your computer can clear temporary glitches caused by the update. This allows system files and services to reload fresh.
- Click on the Start menu.
- Select the Power icon.
- Click Restart and wait for your PC to reboot.
After restarting, try opening BlueStacks again to see if it works.
Step 2: Run BlueStacks as Administrator
Windows updates can change app permissions. Running BlueStacks with administrator rights ensures it has full access to system resources.
- Right-click the BlueStacks shortcut on your desktop or Start menu.
- Select Run as administrator.
- If prompted by User Account Control, click Yes to allow.
If BlueStacks opens normally, you can set it to always run as administrator:
- Right-click the BlueStacks shortcut and choose Properties.
- Go to the Compatibility tab.
- Check the box that says Run this program as an administrator.
- Click Apply and then OK.
Step 3: Update BlueStacks to the Latest Version
An outdated version of BlueStacks may not work well with new Windows updates. Updating ensures compatibility and fixes known bugs.
- Open BlueStacks if possible.
- Click on the gear icon (Settings) in the top right corner.
- Go to the About tab.
- Click Check for updates.
- If an update is available, follow the instructions to download and install it.
If BlueStacks won’t open, you can download the latest installer from the official BlueStacks website and reinstall it.
Step 4: Enable Virtualization in BIOS
BlueStacks relies on virtualization technology for better performance. Sometimes Windows updates disable virtualization or your BIOS settings may need adjustment.
Why this matters: Virtualization allows BlueStacks to emulate Android hardware efficiently. Without it, BlueStacks might crash or refuse to start.
How to check and enable virtualization:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Go to the Performance tab.
- Look for Virtualization on the right side. It should say Enabled.
- If it says Disabled, restart your PC and enter BIOS/UEFI settings. This usually involves pressing Delete, F2, or Esc during boot (check your PC’s manual).
- In BIOS, find the Virtualization Technology setting (it might be under CPU or Advanced settings).
- Enable it, save changes, and exit BIOS.
- Restart Windows and try BlueStacks again.
Step 5: Update Graphics Drivers
BlueStacks requires up-to-date graphics drivers to run smoothly. The Windows Anniversary Update may have caused driver conflicts.
- Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
- Expand Display adapters.
- Right-click your graphics card and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
- Follow prompts if a new driver is found.
Alternatively, visit your graphics card manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel) to download the latest drivers manually.
Alternative Method: Disable Hyper-V
Windows Hyper-V can conflict with BlueStacks. Disabling it might solve the problem.
- Press Windows + S and type Turn Windows features on or off.
- Open the app.
- Uncheck Hyper-V.
- Click OK and restart your PC.
Note: Disabling Hyper-V affects virtual machine apps like Docker or Windows Sandbox.
FAQs
Why did BlueStacks stop working after the Windows 11 Anniversary Update?
The update changes system files, security settings, and drivers, which can cause compatibility issues with BlueStacks.
Is it safe to reinstall BlueStacks?
Yes, reinstalling BlueStacks is safe and often fixes corrupted files or settings causing the problem.
Can I run BlueStacks without virtualization enabled?
Technically yes, but performance will be poor and BlueStacks may crash or fail to start.
What if BlueStacks crashes immediately after opening?
Try running as administrator, updating graphics drivers, or disabling Hyper-V as described above.
Will disabling Hyper-V affect my PC?
It disables Windows’ built-in virtualization features, which could impact other virtual machine software, but improves BlueStacks compatibility.
When Nothing Works
If none of the above fixes resolve your issue, consider these final steps:
- Contact BlueStacks Support: Visit the official BlueStacks support page for personalized help and troubleshooting advice. https://support.bluestacks.com
- Check Windows Update History: Sometimes, uninstalling the latest Windows update temporarily fixes compatibility issues.
- Try an Alternative Emulator: If urgent, you might consider other Android emulators like NoxPlayer or LDPlayer.
Conclusion
BlueStacks stopping after the Windows 11 Anniversary Update is a common but manageable problem. Start with a simple restart and running as administrator, then update BlueStacks and system drivers. Enabling virtualization and disabling Hyper-V can make a big difference.
If you follow these steps patiently, most users get BlueStacks up and running again. Remember, keeping both your system and software updated helps avoid such issues in the future.
With these tips, you should be able to enjoy your favorite Android apps on Windows 11 without interruption.