How to Fix the “Selected Task No Longer Exists” Error in Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

If you are using Windows 11 and encounter the error message “Selected Task No Longer Exists,” it can interrupt your workflow and cause frustration. This error typically appears when trying to open or run a shortcut, app, or task that Windows cannot locate anymore.

Fortunately, this issue usually has simple fixes that you can try on your own without needing advanced technical skills. In this article, we will guide you through clear, step-by-step solutions to resolve this problem effectively.

Each step is explained in detail to ensure that even beginners can follow along easily. By the end, you should be able to get rid of the error and use your system normally again.

Let’s begin with some quick checks before diving into the troubleshooting steps.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

Before starting the fixes, ensure you have completed these basic checks:

Restart your computer: Sometimes a simple reboot fixes temporary glitches causing the error.
Check for Windows updates: Make sure your system is up to date by going to Settings > Windows Update.
Identify the problematic task: Note which application, shortcut, or task triggers the error message.
Backup important data: Just in case, it’s always good to have recent backups before making changes to your system.

Step 1: Delete and Recreate the Problematic Shortcut or Task

One common reason for this error is that the shortcut or task you are trying to use points to a file or program that has been moved or deleted. To fix this:

Locate the shortcut or task icon that shows the error.
Right-click on it and select Delete to remove the broken shortcut.
Find the original file or program manually using File Explorer.
Right-click the program file and select Create shortcut.
Drag or copy the new shortcut to your preferred location, such as the Desktop or Start Menu.

Why this helps: The error occurs because Windows cannot find the target of the old shortcut. Creating a new shortcut ensures it points correctly to the program’s current location.

Step 2: Use Task Scheduler to Find and Fix Missing Tasks

If the error appears when running scheduled tasks, the task itself might have been deleted or corrupted.

Press Windows + S and type Task Scheduler, then press Enter.
In Task Scheduler, look under Task Scheduler Library for the task that is causing the error.
If you find the task, right-click it and select Delete to remove it.
If you still need the task, recreate it by clicking Create Basic Task on the right pane and follow the wizard to set it up again.

Why this matters: Tasks that no longer exist but are referenced by Windows will throw errors. Removing or recreating them clears these invalid references.

Step 3: Run System File Checker (SFC) to Repair Corrupt System Files

Sometimes system files related to tasks and shortcuts may become corrupted. Running the System File Checker can automatically detect and fix these issues.

Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and choose Run as administrator.
In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:

sfc /scannow

This process may take some time. Do not close the window until the verification is 100% complete.

Why this is important: Repairing corrupted system files can resolve errors caused by missing or damaged components that Windows depends on.

Step 4: Use DISM Tool to Repair Windows Image

If SFC does not fix the issue, you can use the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool to fix the Windows image.

Open Command Prompt as administrator as described in Step 3.
Enter the following command and press Enter:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Wait for the process to finish. It may take several minutes.

Why this helps: DISM repairs the Windows system image, which can fix issues that System File Checker alone cannot resolve.

Step 5: Check and Clean the Startup Items

Sometimes invalid startup items can cause this error during login or while running specific tasks.

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Go to the Startup tab.
Look for any suspicious or unknown programs that may be related to the error.
Right-click on such items and select Disable.
Restart your computer and check if the error persists.

Why this step matters: Disabling problematic startup programs prevents invalid or missing tasks from running automatically and causing errors.

Alternative Solutions and Advanced Options

If the above steps do not solve the problem, consider these additional options:

Create a new user account: Sometimes user profile corruption causes task errors. Creating a new account can isolate the problem.
Perform a system restore: Use a restore point to revert your system to a time before the error started.
Reset Windows 11: As a last resort, resetting Windows while keeping your files can fix deep system issues.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes the “Selected Task No Longer Exists” error in Windows 11?

This error usually happens when a shortcut or scheduled task points to a file, program, or script that has been moved, deleted, or corrupted.

Can I fix this error without reinstalling Windows?

Yes. Most cases can be resolved by deleting and recreating shortcuts, repairing system files, or fixing scheduled tasks.

Will deleting the problematic task or shortcut cause data loss?

No. Deleting shortcuts or tasks only removes the link or script reference, not your actual files or programs.

How often should I run system maintenance to avoid such errors?

Regularly check for Windows updates, run disk cleanup, and occasionally scan for corrupted system files to keep your system healthy.

Is this error related to malware?

Not usually, but it’s a good idea to run a full antivirus scan if you notice other unusual system behavior.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and still face the “Selected Task No Longer Exists” error, here are your final options:

Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support website for personalized help.
Use Windows 11 Recovery Options: Access recovery through Settings > System > Recovery to reset or reinstall Windows.
Seek professional help: If you are uncomfortable performing advanced repairs, a trusted technician can assist you safely.

Conclusion

The “Selected Task No Longer Exists” error in Windows 11 can be frustrating but is usually easy to fix. Start with basic steps like deleting and recreating shortcuts or tasks, then move on to repairing system files if needed.

By following this step-by-step guide, you can troubleshoot the problem logically and restore normal functionality to your system. Remember to keep your system updated and backed up to prevent future issues.

With patience and the right approach, this error can be resolved quickly without requiring complex technical know-how.