Blog

How to Fix “Process Not in Background Processing Mode” Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

If you are encountering the “Process Not in Background Processing Mode” error on Windows 11, it can interrupt your workflow unexpectedly. This error typically occurs when a process that is expected to run in the background isn’t behaving as it should. Fixing this issue involves a few straightforward steps that anyone can follow.

This guide will walk you through simple and effective solutions to resolve this error. No advanced technical skills are required, and each step is explained clearly. By following these instructions, you can get your system running smoothly again.

Understanding why this error happens is key to preventing it in the future. Usually, it relates to how Windows manages background processes and system resources. This article will help you troubleshoot and fix it in a logical order.

Let’s get started with some quick checks to make sure your system is ready for the troubleshooting process.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

Before diving into fixes, make sure your Windows 11 system meets these basic requirements:

  • Windows Updates: Ensure your system is up to date. Sometimes, Microsoft releases patches that resolve such errors automatically.
  • Restart Your Computer: A simple restart can clear temporary glitches causing the error.
  • Check Background Apps Settings: Verify that the apps you expect to run in the background have permission enabled in Settings > Privacy > Background apps.
  • Close Unnecessary Programs: Running many programs simultaneously can interfere with background processing.

Once you have completed these quick checks, proceed with the troubleshooting steps below.

Step 1: Restart Windows Explorer

Windows Explorer manages your desktop and file system interface. Sometimes, restarting it can fix background process issues.

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  2. Find Windows Explorer in the list of processes.
  3. Right-click on Windows Explorer and select Restart.
  4. Check if the error still appears after this.

This step helps because restarting Windows Explorer refreshes the system interface and can reset stalled background processes.

Step 2: Run System File Checker (SFC) Scan

Corrupted system files can cause background processing errors. The System File Checker tool scans and repairs these files.

  1. Click the Start button, type cmd, then right-click on Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
  2. In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

The scan may take some time. Once it finishes, it will automatically repair any corrupted files it finds. Restart your PC afterward to apply the changes.

Step 3: Check Background Services

Some essential Windows services must be running properly for background processing to work.

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type services.msc and hit Enter.
  3. In the Services window, scroll down to find Windows Background Tasks Infrastructure Service or any services related to background processing.
  4. Right-click the service and select Properties.
  5. Ensure the Startup type is set to Automatic and the service is running. If not, click Start.
  6. Click Apply and then OK.

Ensuring these services are active is important because they handle how Windows executes processes in the background.

Step 4: Adjust Power Settings

Windows power settings can sometimes limit background app activity to save battery, which may trigger this error.

  1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
  2. Navigate to System > Power & battery.
  3. Click on Power mode and set it to Best performance.
  4. Scroll down and click on Additional power settings.
  5. In the Power Options window, select your current power plan and click Change plan settings.
  6. Click Change advanced power settings.
  7. Expand Background apps, then set it to Allow background activity where applicable.
  8. Click Apply and OK.

Adjusting power settings ensures that Windows does not restrict background processes unnecessarily.

Step 5: Update Device Drivers

Outdated or incompatible drivers can interfere with background processing.

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand categories such as System devices and Processors.
  3. Right-click each device and select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
  5. Follow the prompts if updates are found.

Keeping drivers updated helps maintain system stability, which is important for smooth background processing.

Alternative Method: Use Windows Troubleshooter

Windows comes with built-in troubleshooters that can automatically detect and fix many problems.

  1. Open Settings and go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  2. Find the Background Apps or related troubleshooters and click Run.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process.

This method is useful if you prefer an automated approach before trying manual fixes.

FAQs

What does “Process Not in Background Processing Mode” mean?

This error indicates that a process expected to run quietly in the background is either not running correctly or is stuck because Windows did not set it to background processing mode properly.

Is this error harmful to my computer?

Generally, it’s not harmful but can disrupt certain apps or tasks that rely on background processing, causing slowdowns or crashes.

Can a simple restart fix this error?

Yes, often a restart clears temporary glitches causing the error, so it’s always worth trying first.

Do I need to be an expert to follow these steps?

No. The instructions are designed to be simple, and you do not need advanced technical knowledge to perform them.

Will updating Windows fix this issue?

Sometimes, Windows updates include fixes for such errors, so keeping your system updated is recommended.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and still see the error, consider the following options:

  • Reset Windows: Use the built-in Windows Reset feature to refresh your system without losing personal files.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support for professional assistance.
  • Check Event Viewer: Look for detailed error logs in Event Viewer to identify specific issues.

These options are more advanced and should be used if simpler fixes fail to resolve the problem.

Conclusion

The “Process Not in Background Processing Mode” error on Windows 11 can be frustrating but is fixable with simple steps. Starting with basic restarts and system checks, you can progress to running system scans, adjusting settings, and updating drivers.

Understanding the role of background processes helps you see why these fixes are necessary. Remember to keep your system updated and monitor power settings to prevent future occurrences.

If problems persist, advanced options like resetting Windows or contacting support are available. Following this guide will help you restore your PC’s smooth operation effectively and confidently.

Leave a Reply