How to Fix CCleaner Not Working on Windows 10: Step-by-Step Solutions

CCleaner is a popular tool used to clean unnecessary files and improve system performance on Windows 10. However, sometimes it may stop working or fail to open properly. This can be frustrating, especially if you rely on it for regular system maintenance.

Fortunately, there are several simple solutions you can try to get CCleaner working again. These steps range from basic checks to more detailed troubleshooting.

In this guide, we will walk you through each step carefully, explaining why each action is important. This will help even beginners fix the problem without confusion.

Let’s start by making sure your system is ready for CCleaner to run smoothly.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

Check Windows Updates: Make sure your Windows 10 is updated. Outdated systems can cause software conflicts.
Verify CCleaner Version: Ensure you are using the latest version of CCleaner, as older versions may not work properly with Windows 10 updates.
Restart Your PC: Sometimes a simple reboot clears temporary issues affecting software.
Run as Administrator: CCleaner may need administrative access to function correctly.

Step 1: Run CCleaner as Administrator

Sometimes CCleaner does not work because it lacks the necessary permissions to access system files. Running it as an administrator can fix this.

Find the CCleaner shortcut on your desktop or in the Start menu.
Right-click on the CCleaner icon.
Select Run as administrator from the context menu.
If prompted by User Account Control (UAC), click Yes to allow.

This gives CCleaner full access to clean files and registry entries that normal user mode may block.

Step 2: Update CCleaner to the Latest Version

Running outdated software can cause compatibility issues. Follow these steps to update CCleaner:

Open CCleaner if possible.
Click on the Options tab in the left menu.
Select Updates.
Click Check for updates.
If an update is available, download and install it.

If CCleaner won’t open, download the latest version directly from the official CCleaner website and install it over your current version.

Step 3: Check for Conflicting Software

Other security or cleaning programs might interfere with CCleaner’s operation. Antivirus software or Windows Defender could block CCleaner mistakenly.

Try these steps:

Temporarily disable your antivirus or Windows Defender real-time protection.
Attempt to run CCleaner again.
If it works, add CCleaner to your antivirus’s exclusion list to avoid future conflicts.

Note: Always re-enable your antivirus after testing to keep your PC protected.

Step 4: Repair or Reinstall CCleaner

If CCleaner still does not work, the program files might be corrupted. Reinstalling can fix this.

Press Windows + R keys to open the Run dialog.
Type appwiz.cpl and press Enter to open Programs and Features.
Find CCleaner in the list, select it, and click Uninstall.
Once uninstalled, restart your computer.
Download the latest CCleaner installer from the official website.
Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.

This fresh installation removes corrupted files and ensures a clean setup.

Step 5: Run CCleaner in Compatibility Mode

If you experience crashes or errors, try running the program in compatibility mode for an earlier version of Windows.

Right-click the CCleaner shortcut or executable file.
Select Properties.
Go to the Compatibility tab.
Check the box for Run this program in compatibility mode for: and select Windows 8 or Windows 7 from the dropdown.
Click Apply then OK.
Try running CCleaner again.

Step 6: Clear CCleaner Temporary Files

Sometimes leftover temporary files can cause issues. Deleting them can help.

Press Windows + R to open Run.
Type %temp% and press Enter.
This opens the temporary files folder.
Select all files and folders (Ctrl + A), then press Delete.
Some files may be in use; skip those.
Restart your computer and try CCleaner again.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why won’t CCleaner open on Windows 10?

This could be due to lack of administrator rights, outdated software, conflicts with antivirus programs, or corrupted files.

Is it safe to uninstall and reinstall CCleaner?

Yes, uninstalling and reinstalling CCleaner from the official source is safe and often fixes many problems.

Can antivirus programs block CCleaner?

Yes, some antivirus software may block CCleaner mistakenly. Temporarily disabling antivirus or adding CCleaner to exclusions usually resolves this.

Does running CCleaner in compatibility mode harm my PC?

No, compatibility mode simply allows older programs to run in a simulated environment. It’s a safe troubleshooting step.

What should I do if CCleaner still doesn’t work after these steps?

Try the advanced solutions or contact CCleaner support for specialized assistance.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and CCleaner still does not work, consider the following options:

Use the Official CCleaner Support: Visit the Piriform Support Center for help and troubleshooting guides.
Try Alternative Cleaning Tools: There are other system cleaners like BleachBit or Windows’ built-in Disk Cleanup that may meet your needs.
Check System Integrity: Run the System File Checker by opening Command Prompt as administrator and typing sfc /scannow. This scans and repairs corrupted system files which might affect CCleaner.

Conclusion

CCleaner not working on Windows 10 can be caused by simple permission issues, software conflicts, or corrupted installation files. Starting with basic steps like running as administrator and updating the program often solves the problem quickly.

If those don’t help, repairing or reinstalling CCleaner, running it in compatibility mode, or clearing temporary files are effective next steps. Always keep your system updated and be mindful of antivirus software that might block CCleaner.

Following these detailed steps will help you restore CCleaner’s functionality and keep your Windows 10 PC running smoothly.