How to Fix Apps Not Working on Windows 11 When Browser Functions Normally

Sometimes, apps on Windows 11 stop working even though your web browser functions normally. This can be confusing because your internet connection seems fine, but apps won’t open or respond. Understanding why this happens helps to fix the problem quickly.

In many cases, simple settings or minor glitches cause apps to malfunction. Taking a few steps can often restore app functionality without needing expert help. This guide will walk you through easy and effective solutions.

We will start with basic checks and move towards more advanced options if needed. Each step includes clear explanations, so you know why it matters.

By the end, you should have your apps working again or know what to do next if they still don’t respond.

Quick Note

Before troubleshooting, ensure the following:

Your internet connection is stable. Since browsers work fine, this is usually true, but double-check Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
Windows 11 is up to date. Updates can fix bugs that affect apps.
You have restarted your computer. Sometimes a simple reboot resolves temporary issues.
Check app-specific requirements. Some apps need additional software or permissions to run.

Step 1: Restart the Problematic App and Your PC

Sometimes apps freeze or fail due to temporary glitches. Closing and reopening the app can clear these issues.

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Find the app that’s not working under the “Processes” tab.
Select it and click “End Task” to force close.
Try reopening the app.

If this does not help, restart your PC to refresh system resources and clear temporary files that might block apps.

Step 2: Check for Windows Updates

Windows updates often include fixes for app-related bugs. Running an outdated system can cause apps to malfunction.

Click the Start button and open Settings.
Navigate to Windows Update.
Click Check for updates.
Download and install any available updates.
Restart your PC if prompted.

Step 3: Run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes a built-in troubleshooter designed to detect and fix problems with apps from the Microsoft Store.

Open Settings from the Start menu.
Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
Find Windows Store Apps and click Run.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting.

This tool automatically diagnoses common issues and applies fixes, saving you time.

Step 4: Reset the Problematic App

Resetting an app returns it to its default state without uninstalling. This clears corrupted data or settings that might prevent the app from working.

Open Settings and go to Apps > Installed apps.
Find the app that is not working and click the three dots next to it.
Select Advanced options.
Scroll down and click Reset.
Confirm the reset and try opening the app again.

Step 5: Check Network and Firewall Settings

Even if your browser works, firewall or network settings might block some apps from accessing the internet or system resources.

Open Windows Security by searching in the Start menu.
Go to Firewall & network protection.
Click Allow an app through firewall.
Find your app in the list and ensure both Private and Public checkboxes are checked.
If the app is missing, click Allow another app and add it manually.

Additionally, check your network profile is set to Private if you trust your network, as some apps block connections on Public networks.

Step 6: Reinstall the App

If resetting does not help, try uninstalling and reinstalling the app. This replaces potentially corrupted files.

Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
Locate the app and click the three dots, then select Uninstall.
Confirm and wait for the app to be removed.
Reinstall the app from the Microsoft Store or official website.

Alternative and Advanced Options

If the above steps fail, you may try these advanced methods:

Run System File Checker (SFC) to repair corrupted Windows system files:

1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
3. Wait for the scan to complete and follow any instructions.

Create a new user account to check if the problem is user-specific:

1. Open Settings > Accounts > Family & other users.
2. Click "Add account" and follow steps to create a new user.
3. Log in with the new account and test the app.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why do apps stop working if my browser is fine?

Browsers use different protocols and settings than some apps. Even if your internet connection is okay, app-specific issues like corrupted files, permissions, or firewall blocks can prevent apps from working.

Will resetting an app delete my data?

Resetting usually deletes the app’s local data and settings, so you may lose preferences or saved progress. It does not uninstall the app.

Can outdated Windows versions cause app problems?

Yes, outdated Windows versions may have bugs or missing updates that affect app compatibility and performance.

Is it safe to allow apps through the firewall?

Only allow apps you trust. The firewall protects your PC from unauthorized access, so be cautious about what you unblock.

What if the app is not from Microsoft Store?

For apps installed from other sources, troubleshooting steps like reinstalling or checking network permissions still apply. You might also check the app’s official support for specific fixes.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above solutions fix your apps, consider these final options:

Contact Microsoft Support: Visit Microsoft Support for expert help.
Use System Restore: Roll back your system to a previous point when apps were working well.
Reset Windows 11: As a last resort, reset your PC to factory settings, but back up all important data first.

Conclusion

Apps not working on Windows 11 while browsers function normally can result from various issues, from simple glitches to system-level problems. Starting with basic checks like restarting the app and PC, updating Windows, and running built-in troubleshooters usually solves the problem.

If those steps fail, resetting or reinstalling the app and verifying firewall permissions are effective next steps. Advanced options like system scans and new user accounts help diagnose deeper issues.

Always keep your system updated and back up important data before performing major fixes. With patience and the right steps, you can restore your apps and keep your Windows 11 system running smoothly.