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How to Fix Cortana Not Working After Windows 10 Creators Update: Step-by-Step Solutions

Cortana is a helpful digital assistant built into Windows 10, designed to make your tasks easier. However, after the Windows 10 Creators Update, some users have experienced issues with Cortana not working properly. This can be frustrating, especially if you rely on voice commands or quick search features.

The good news is, most Cortana problems can be fixed with simple troubleshooting steps. You don’t need to be a tech expert to follow these solutions. We will guide you through easy-to-understand methods to get Cortana back up and running.

Before diving into complex fixes, it’s important to check a few basic settings and system requirements. These quick checks often solve the issue immediately. If not, don’t worry – we have more advanced options later.

Let’s start with some quick notes and prerequisites to make sure your system is ready for Cortana to work correctly.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

  • Check Windows Version: Make sure your system is running the latest Windows 10 Creators Update or newer. Updates often include important fixes for Cortana.
  • Language and Region Settings: Cortana only works fully in supported languages and regions. Verify that your system language and region match supported Cortana settings (e.g., English – United States).
  • Internet Connection: Cortana needs an active internet connection to function. Confirm your device is online and connected to Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
  • Microphone Setup: If you use voice commands, ensure your microphone is properly connected and configured.
  • Microsoft Account: Cortana requires a Microsoft account login, not a local account, for full functionality.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary glitches affecting Cortana. Restarting refreshes the system and clears minor errors.

  1. Click the Start menu.
  2. Select the Power icon.
  3. Click Restart.
  4. After your PC restarts, try using Cortana again.

Step 2: Check Cortana’s Permissions

Cortana needs permissions to access your microphone, location, and other settings. Without proper permissions, it won’t work correctly.

  1. Open the Settings app by pressing Windows + I.
  2. Click on Privacy.
  3. From the left panel, select Microphone and make sure access is turned on for Cortana.
  4. Go back and select Location and ensure location access is enabled.
  5. Finally, go to Speech settings and turn on online speech recognition.

Step 3: Restart Cortana Process

Sometimes Cortana’s background process can freeze or stop working. Restarting it manually can help.

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
  2. Look for Cortana under the Processes tab.
  3. Select it and click End Task.
  4. After ending the task, Cortana will restart automatically. Try using it again.

Step 4: Run Windows Troubleshooter for Search and Indexing

Windows has built-in troubleshooters that can detect and fix issues with Cortana and search functionalities.

  1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
  2. Go to Update & Security.
  3. Select Troubleshoot from the left menu.
  4. Find and click on Search and Indexing.
  5. Click Run the troubleshooter and follow the on-screen instructions.

Step 5: Re-register Cortana Using PowerShell

If Cortana’s app files are corrupted, re-registering it can fix the problem. This step uses PowerShell commands to refresh Cortana’s installation.

  1. Press Windows + X and select Windows PowerShell (Admin).
  2. Copy and paste the following command, then press Enter:
Get-AppXPackage -Name Microsoft.549981C3F5F10 | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)AppXManifest.xml"}

This command reinstalls Cortana. After it finishes, restart your PC and check if Cortana works.

Step 6: Check for Windows Updates

Microsoft regularly releases updates that fix bugs and improve features like Cortana.

  1. Open Settings with Windows + I.
  2. Click on Update & Security.
  3. Select Windows Update and click Check for updates.
  4. Install any available updates and restart your computer.

Step 7: Create a New User Account

Sometimes, user profile corruption causes Cortana issues. Creating a new user account can help identify this.

  1. Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users.
  2. Click Add someone else to this PC.
  3. Follow the prompts to create a new Microsoft user account.
  4. Sign in with the new account and test Cortana.

If Cortana works in the new account, your old user profile might be corrupted.

Alternative Method: Reset Cortana via Settings

If re-registering doesn’t work, you can try resetting Cortana like a regular app. This removes settings and data but keeps Cortana installed.

  1. Open Settings > Apps.
  2. Scroll down to find Cortana and click it.
  3. Click Advanced options.
  4. Scroll down and click Reset.
  5. Confirm the reset and then try using Cortana again.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is Cortana not responding to my voice commands?

This can happen if your microphone is not set up correctly or if speech recognition is disabled. Make sure your microphone works and online speech recognition is turned on in settings.

Can I use Cortana without a Microsoft account?

No. Cortana requires you to sign in with a Microsoft account to access personalized features and cloud services.

What languages does Cortana support after the Creators Update?

Cortana supports several languages including English (US, UK), French, German, Spanish, Italian, and others. Check your language and region settings to ensure compatibility.

How do I turn off Cortana if I don’t want to use it?

You can disable Cortana by going to Settings > Cortana > Permissions > and turning off all permissions, or by editing group policies for advanced users.

Is it safe to use PowerShell commands to fix Cortana?

Yes, the commands provided are official and safe when copied exactly. They only re-register Cortana’s app files without harming your system.

When Nothing Works: Final Options

If none of the above solutions restore Cortana, you may consider the following:

  • Run System File Checker: Open PowerShell as admin and run sfc /scannow to fix corrupted system files.
  • Perform a Windows Reset: Use the “Reset this PC” feature in Settings > Update & Security > Recovery. This reinstalls Windows but can keep your files.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Cortana support page for help and updates.

Conclusion

Fixing Cortana after the Windows 10 Creators Update can be straightforward if you follow the right steps. Always start with simple checks like restarting your PC and verifying settings. Then move on to permissions, troubleshooters, and re-registering the app if needed.

Remember, keeping your Windows updated and using a supported language and region are key to Cortana’s smooth operation. If problems persist, don’t hesitate to try advanced fixes or reach out for professional support.

With patience and these detailed instructions, you’ll likely have Cortana responding to your commands again in no time.

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