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How to Fix Missing Default Apps in Windows 10: Step-by-Step Solutions

Missing default apps in Windows 10 can be frustrating, especially when you rely on them for everyday tasks. These apps include Mail, Calendar, Photos, and more, which are essential for a smooth user experience. Sometimes, these apps disappear or stop working properly after an update or system change. Fortunately, there are simple ways to fix this issue without needing technical expertise.

This guide will walk you through step-by-step solutions to restore missing default apps. Each method is explained clearly so you can follow along without confusion. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced user, these instructions cover everything you need to know.

By the end of this article, you’ll be able to get your default apps back and working as intended. Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into the fixes.

Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll have your Windows 10 default apps restored in no time.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

Before proceeding with any fixes, make sure you have the following ready:

  • Stable Internet Connection: Some fixes require downloading updates or re-installing apps.
  • Windows 10 Updated: Ensure your system is running the latest updates by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and clicking Check for updates.
  • Administrator Access: You will need admin rights to run certain commands and make system changes.
  • Backup Important Data: Although these steps are safe, it’s good practice to backup important files before making system changes.

Once you’ve checked these, you can move on to the troubleshooting steps.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, the simplest solution is the most effective. Restarting your computer can refresh system processes and fix minor glitches.

  1. Click the Start menu (Windows icon in the bottom-left corner).
  2. Select the Power button.
  3. Choose Restart.

After your PC restarts, check if the missing default apps have reappeared.

Step 2: Use Windows Store Troubleshooter

Windows Store apps sometimes fail due to store-related issues. The built-in troubleshooter can detect and fix problems automatically.

  1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
  2. Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
  3. Scroll down and click Additional troubleshooters.
  4. Find Windows Store Apps and click it.
  5. Select Run the troubleshooter and follow the on-screen instructions.

This process will check for common app issues and attempt repairs.

Step 3: Reinstall Missing Default Apps Using PowerShell

If apps are still missing, reinstalling them through PowerShell is an effective method. PowerShell is a powerful command-line tool that can reset app installations.

  1. Click the Start button, type PowerShell, then right-click Windows PowerShell and select Run as administrator.
  2. In the PowerShell window, copy and paste the following command and press Enter:
Get-AppxPackage -allusers Microsoft.WindowsStore | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)AppXManifest.xml"}

This command reinstalls the Microsoft Store app, which is essential for managing default apps.

  1. Next, to reinstall all default apps, enter this command:
Get-AppxPackage -allusers | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)AppXManifest.xml"}

Wait for the process to complete. This will reinstall all built-in Windows apps for all users.

Step 4: Reset the Microsoft Store Cache

Corrupted cache files can cause apps to disappear or fail. Resetting the Store cache can help fix this.

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type wsreset.exe and press Enter.
  3. A blank Command Prompt window will open, and after a few moments, it will close automatically.
  4. The Microsoft Store will open automatically after the reset.

Check if the missing apps have returned after this step.

Step 5: Check App Permissions and Default Settings

Sometimes, apps are installed but not set as default or have restricted permissions, making them hard to find.

  1. Open Settings and navigate to Apps > Default apps.
  2. Scroll through and check if the missing apps are set as the default for their categories (e.g., Photos for image files, Mail for emails).
  3. If not, click the app listed under each category and select the correct app from the list.

Also, verify app permissions:

  1. Go to Settings > Privacy.
  2. On the left menu, select the relevant category (e.g., Camera, Microphone, Background apps).
  3. Make sure the apps you want to use have the necessary permissions enabled.

Alternative Method: Use System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

If apps are missing due to corrupted system files, running built-in repair tools can help.

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator by typing cmd in Start, right-clicking Command Prompt, and choosing Run as administrator.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

This will scan and repair corrupted system files. Wait for it to finish.

  1. If problems persist, run the Deployment Image Servicing and Management tool by typing:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

This command repairs the Windows image and can resolve deeper issues.

FAQs

Why are my default apps missing after an update?

Windows updates sometimes reset app configurations or cause conflicts that lead to missing apps. Reinstalling or resetting apps usually fixes this.

Can I download missing default apps from the Microsoft Store?

Yes, many default apps like Mail and Calendar can be downloaded individually from the Microsoft Store if they are missing.

Will reinstalling default apps remove my app data?

Reinstalling usually preserves your data, but it’s good to backup important information as a precaution.

Is it safe to use PowerShell commands for reinstalling apps?

Yes, as long as you copy commands from trusted sources and run PowerShell as an administrator, this method is safe and effective.

What if resetting the Microsoft Store cache doesn’t work?

Try running the Windows Store Troubleshooter again or proceed with reinstalling apps using PowerShell.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above solutions restore your missing default apps, consider these final options:

  • Create a New User Account: Sometimes, user profiles get corrupted. Creating a new account can help determine if the issue is profile-specific.
  • Perform a System Restore: Roll back your PC to a previous state when apps were working correctly.
  • Reset Windows 10: This reinstalls Windows while keeping your personal files but removes apps and settings.
  • Visit Microsoft Support: For official help, visit Microsoft Support.

Conclusion

Missing default apps in Windows 10 can disrupt your workflow, but fixing them is usually straightforward. Starting with simple steps like restarting your PC and running troubleshooters can solve most problems. If needed, reinstalling apps using PowerShell or repairing system files ensures a thorough fix.

Always keep your system updated and maintain backups to avoid future issues. With these clear, step-by-step solutions, you should be able to restore your default apps and get back to using Windows 10 smoothly.

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