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How to Fix Windows 10 2004 PC Settings Not Working: Step-by-Step Solutions

If you are using Windows 10 version 2004 and find that the PC Settings app is not working, you are not alone. Many users face this frustrating issue where the Settings window either doesn’t open or crashes unexpectedly.

This article will guide you through simple and effective solutions to get your PC Settings working again. No technical expertise is required; each step is explained clearly and in detail.

Follow the steps carefully from the easiest to more advanced methods. This way, you can fix the problem without unnecessary effort or risk.

Let’s dive into how to restore your PC Settings functionality on Windows 10 2004.

Quick Note: Before You Begin

  • Make sure your Windows 10 is actually version 2004. You can check this by typing winver in the Run dialog (press Windows + R keys).
  • Restart your PC once before trying any fixes. Sometimes a simple reboot solves temporary glitches.
  • Ensure your system has enough free disk space and is not running low on memory.
  • Check if any recent updates were installed that might have caused the issue.

Step 1: Restart the Settings App Process

Sometimes the Settings app can freeze or get stuck. Restarting its process can help.

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  2. Look for Settings or SettingsApp.exe in the list under the Processes tab.
  3. If found, click on it and then click End Task.
  4. Now, try opening the Settings app again from the Start menu.

This step is important because sometimes the app might be running in the background but unresponsive.

Step 2: Run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter

Since the Settings app is a Windows Store app, running the troubleshooter can automatically detect and fix common problems.

  1. Press Windows + I keys to try to open Settings. If it doesn’t open, use the Control Panel instead: open the Start menu, type Control Panel, and open it.
  2. In Control Panel, search for Troubleshooting and open it.
  3. Click on View all on the left panel.
  4. Find and click Windows Store Apps.
  5. Click Next and follow the on-screen instructions to run the troubleshooter.

This helps fix issues caused by corrupted app files or permissions.

Step 3: Reset the Settings App

Resetting the Settings app clears its cache and data, which can solve many glitches.

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type powershell and press Enter to open PowerShell.
  3. Copy and paste the following command and press Enter:
Get-AppxPackage *windows.immersivecontrolpanel* | Reset-AppxPackage

This command resets the Settings app to its default state.

If you receive an error that Reset-AppxPackage is not recognized, try this alternative:

  1. Open Settings (if possible) or go to Apps & Features via Control Panel.
  2. Search for Settings or Immersive Control Panel.
  3. If the reset option is available, click it.

Step 4: Re-register the Settings App Using PowerShell

If resetting does not work, re-registering the app reinstall its files and can fix deeper issues.

  1. Open PowerShell as administrator:
    • Type powershell in the Start menu search.
    • Right-click on Windows PowerShell and select Run as administrator.
  2. In the PowerShell window, paste the following command and hit Enter:
Add-AppxPackage -register "C:WindowsImmersiveControlPanelAppxManifest.xml" -DisableDevelopmentMode

This command reinstalls the Settings app’s package and often resolves missing or corrupt files.

Step 5: Check for System File Corruption Using SFC Scan

Corrupted system files can cause the Settings app to malfunction. The System File Checker tool scans and repairs these files.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator:
    • Search for cmd in the Start menu.
    • Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

The scan may take some time. Once completed, it will automatically fix any corrupted files it finds.

Restart your PC and try opening Settings again.

Step 6: Create a New User Account

Sometimes the issue is limited to a particular user profile. Creating a new user account can help identify this.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
  2. Type the following command to create a new user (replace NewUserName and Password123 with your preferred username and password):
net user NewUserName Password123 /add
  1. Log out of your current account.
  2. Log in with the new user account credentials.
  3. Check if the Settings app works in this new account.

If it works, your original user profile might be corrupted, and you can consider moving your data to the new account.

Alternative Advanced Method: Perform an In-Place Upgrade Repair

If none of the above solutions work, performing an in-place upgrade repair reinstalls Windows without affecting your personal files or apps.

This process replaces all system files, including the Settings app, and often fixes stubborn issues.

To do this:

  • Download the latest Windows 10 ISO from the official Microsoft website.
  • Mount the ISO file by double-clicking it.
  • Run setup.exe inside the mounted drive.
  • Choose Upgrade this PC now and follow the prompts.
  • Ensure you select the option to keep personal files and apps.

This process may take some time but is usually very effective.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why does the Settings app stop working on Windows 10 2004?

The problem can be caused by corrupted system files, problematic updates, or issues with the app’s cache. Sometimes user profile corruption also leads to this issue.

Can I fix the Settings app without losing my data?

Yes. Most of the solutions like resetting or re-registering the app and running system scans do not affect your personal files.

What if I cannot open PowerShell or Command Prompt as administrator?

Try booting into Safe Mode and then run these tools. Safe Mode loads Windows with minimal drivers and services, which can help you troubleshoot.

Will reinstalling Windows fix this issue?

Reinstalling Windows will definitely fix the problem but should be your last resort. Try all other steps first.

How do I check my Windows version?

Press Windows + R, type winver, and press Enter. A window will show your current Windows version.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above methods and the PC Settings app still does not work, consider these final options:

  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support website for personalized help.
  • Reset Your PC: Use the Reset this PC option from the Recovery menu to reinstall Windows while keeping or removing your files.
  • Fresh Windows Installation: Back up all your important data and perform a clean Windows install.

Conclusion

The PC Settings app is an essential part of managing your Windows 10 system, and it can be frustrating when it stops working. Fortunately, most issues can be solved by restarting the app, running built-in troubleshooters, resetting or re-registering the app, and checking for corrupted system files.

Always start with the simplest solutions and move toward advanced ones if necessary. Creating a new user account can help identify if the problem is user-specific. And if all else fails, an in-place upgrade or reset can restore full functionality without much hassle.

Following these step-by-step instructions should help you fix the PC Settings app on Windows 10 version 2004 quickly and effectively.

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