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How to Fix Third-Party App Start Menu Bug in Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Many Windows 11 users encounter an issue where third-party apps do not appear or open correctly from the Start Menu. This bug can disrupt your workflow and make accessing your favorite applications frustrating. Fortunately, there are simple solutions to resolve this problem without needing advanced technical skills.

In this article, we will guide you through easy, step-by-step methods to fix the third-party app Start Menu bug in Windows 11. Each step is explained clearly so you can follow along and troubleshoot effectively.

Whether you are new to Windows or an experienced user, these instructions will help you restore proper functionality to your Start Menu quickly.

Let’s get started with some quick checks before moving to the solutions.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

  • Restart Your Computer: Sometimes, a simple reboot clears temporary glitches causing the issue.
  • Check for Windows Updates: Ensure your system is up to date as Microsoft frequently releases bug fixes.
  • Confirm App Installation: Verify the third-party apps are properly installed and updated.
  • Review User Account Permissions: Make sure you are logged into an account with appropriate permissions to run the apps.

Step 1: Restart Windows Explorer

Windows Explorer controls the Start Menu and taskbar. Restarting it can fix minor glitches affecting app launches.

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  2. In the Processes tab, locate Windows Explorer.
  3. Right-click on it and select Restart.
  4. Wait a few seconds; the taskbar and Start Menu will refresh.

This step is important because restarting Explorer reloads the Start Menu interface, often resolving temporary bugs.

Step 2: Run the Start Menu Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes a troubleshooter designed to detect and fix Start Menu problems automatically.

  1. Open Settings by pressing Win + I.
  2. Navigate to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  3. Find Start Menu or Windows Store Apps troubleshooter (depending on availability).
  4. Click Run next to it and follow the on-screen instructions.

This tool scans your system for issues and applies fixes, helping resolve Start Menu app bugs without manual intervention.

Step 3: Re-register Start Menu Apps via PowerShell

If the bug persists, you can try re-registering the Start Menu apps using PowerShell. This process refreshes app registrations and can fix missing or broken app entries.

  1. Press Win + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or PowerShell (Admin).
  2. In the terminal window, type or paste the following command and press Enter:
Get-AppXPackage -AllUsers | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)AppXManifest.xml"}

Wait for the command to complete. You may see some error messages; these are normal if certain apps are not installed.

After the process finishes, restart your PC to apply the changes.

Step 4: Reset the Problematic App

If a specific third-party app is not working from the Start Menu, resetting it may help.

  1. Open Settings using Win + I.
  2. Go to Apps > Installed apps.
  3. Find the problematic app in the list and click the three dots next to it.
  4. Select Advanced options.
  5. Scroll down and click Reset. Confirm if prompted.

Resetting clears the app’s data and settings without uninstalling it, which can fix issues related to app launch failures.

Step 5: Create a New User Account

Sometimes, user profile corruption causes Start Menu problems. Creating a new user account can determine if the issue is profile-specific.

  1. Open Settings with Win + I.
  2. Go to Accounts > Family & other users.
  3. Click Add account under Other users.
  4. Follow the prompts to create a new local user account.
  5. Sign out and log into the new account.
  6. Check if the third-party apps open correctly from the Start Menu.

If the problem disappears, it means your original user profile might be corrupted and may need repair or recreation.

Alternative Advanced Method: Use System File Checker and DISM

If basic fixes fail, corrupted system files might cause the issue. Running System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) can repair Windows components.

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

This command scans and repairs corrupted system files. It may take several minutes.

  1. Once SFC completes, run this command:
Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

This command repairs the Windows image. After it finishes, restart your computer and check the Start Menu.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why do third-party apps not show up in the Start Menu?

This can happen due to corrupted app registrations, user profile issues, or bugs in Windows updates affecting the Start Menu functionality.

Can I reinstall the apps to fix the Start Menu bug?

Yes, uninstalling and reinstalling problematic apps can sometimes resolve the issue. However, try resetting or re-registering apps first as they are less disruptive.

Is it safe to run PowerShell commands to fix the Start Menu?

Yes, the provided commands are standard Windows maintenance commands used to refresh app registrations and do not harm your system.

Will creating a new user account delete my files?

No, creating a new account does not delete files from your original account. However, you will need to move files manually if you decide to switch permanently.

How often should I check for Windows updates?

Regularly checking for updates is recommended because Microsoft releases fixes that can resolve Start Menu and other system bugs.

When Nothing Works: Final Resort Options

If none of the above steps fix the issue, consider these last options:

  • Perform a System Restore: Roll back your PC to a previous point where the Start Menu worked correctly.
  • Reset Windows 11: Use the built-in reset option in Settings > System > Recovery to reinstall Windows without losing personal files.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support website for professional assistance.

Conclusion

Fixing the third-party app Start Menu bug in Windows 11 is usually straightforward by following simple troubleshooting steps. Start with restarting Windows Explorer and running the troubleshooter. If problems persist, re-register apps, reset individual apps, or try creating a new user profile.

For advanced users, running system repair tools like SFC and DISM can help resolve deeper system file issues. Always keep your system updated and back up important files regularly.

By carefully following these steps, you can restore full Start Menu functionality and enjoy seamless access to your third-party applications on Windows 11.

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