How to Fix Screen Recording Not Working on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Screen recording is a handy feature in Windows 11 that helps you capture your screen activity effortlessly. However, sometimes this feature may stop working due to various reasons. Understanding why this happens and how to fix it can save you time and frustration.

In this guide, we will walk you through simple and clear steps to get your screen recording back up and running. Whether you’re using the built-in Xbox Game Bar or other tools, these solutions apply broadly.

Each step is explained with the basics in mind, so even if you’re new to Windows 11, you can follow along easily. Let’s start with some quick checks before diving into the fixes.

By the end of this article, you will know several effective methods to troubleshoot and solve screen recording issues on your PC.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

Before starting the troubleshooting process, please ensure the following:

Your PC meets the minimum requirements: Windows 11 should be updated to the latest version for best compatibility.
Screen recording feature availability: The Xbox Game Bar is the default tool on Windows 11 for screen recording. It must be installed and enabled.
Check that your PC hardware supports screen recording: Some older devices might have limitations.
Close other applications: Certain apps can interfere with screen recording, so try closing unnecessary programs before recording.

Step 1: Make Sure Xbox Game Bar is Enabled

The Xbox Game Bar is the main tool used to record screens on Windows 11. If it is turned off, you won’t be able to record. Here’s how to check and enable it:

Click the Start button (Windows icon) at the bottom-left corner of your screen.
Select Settings (gear icon).
In the Settings window, click on Gaming from the left sidebar.
Click on Xbox Game Bar.
Make sure the toggle switch under “Open Xbox Game Bar using this button on a controller” and “Enable Xbox Game Bar for things like recording game clips, chatting with friends, and receiving game invites” is turned On.

Enabling Xbox Game Bar ensures the screen recording feature is available for use.

Step 2: Check Keyboard Shortcuts for Recording

The default shortcut to start and stop screen recording is Win + Alt + R. If this shortcut isn’t working, try these tips:

Make sure you are pressing the keys correctly and simultaneously.
Try opening Xbox Game Bar manually by pressing Win + G and then click the record button.
Check if any other program is overriding these shortcuts. If yes, consider changing or disabling the conflicting shortcuts.

Knowing the right shortcuts helps you quickly start recording without having to navigate menus.

Step 3: Verify Privacy Settings for Screen Recording

Windows 11 has privacy settings that control which apps can access your screen and microphone. If these are disabled, screen recording might fail. To check:

Open Settings again.
Go to Privacy & security from the sidebar.
Scroll down and click Screen recording or Microphone (depending on what you want to record).
Make sure that apps like Xbox Game Bar or other recording apps have permission enabled.

Allowing access is essential because without permission, Windows blocks recording features for security reasons.

Step 4: Check Storage Space and Folder Permissions

Screen recordings are saved as video files on your system. If there isn’t enough storage space or if the folder where the files are saved doesn’t have proper permissions, recording can fail.

Open File Explorer and navigate to the Videos folder or the folder where your recordings are saved.
Right-click the folder and select Properties.
Go to the Security tab and ensure your user account has full control or at least write permission.
Also, check your disk space by right-clicking on the drive (usually C:) and selecting Properties. See if there is enough free space.

Having proper permissions and enough storage allows recordings to be saved without errors.

Step 5: Update Graphics Drivers

Screen recording depends on your graphics card functioning correctly. Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause recording problems.

Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
Expand the section called Display adapters.
Right-click your graphics card and choose Update driver.
Select Search automatically for drivers and follow the prompts to update.
Restart your computer after the update.

Updating drivers fixes bugs and ensures your hardware works well with Windows 11’s recording features.

Step 6: Restart Xbox Game Bar and Related Services

If the Xbox Game Bar app or its services are glitching, restarting them can help:

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Look for Xbox Game Bar in the list of running apps.
Select it and click End Task.
Also, check for processes named GameBar.exe or similar and end them.
After closing, press Win + G to reopen Xbox Game Bar.

Restarting the app refreshes its functionality and may solve temporary glitches.

Alternative Method: Use Third-Party Screen Recording Software

If Xbox Game Bar continues to have problems or lacks features you need, consider using other screen recording tools such as OBS Studio, ShareX, or Camtasia. These programs provide more options and sometimes better stability.

Just download the software from official websites, install it, and follow their guides to start recording.

FAQs

Why is my screen recording button grayed out?

This usually happens when Xbox Game Bar is disabled or privacy settings block access. Check that Xbox Game Bar is enabled and your app has permission to record the screen.

Can I record my screen without Xbox Game Bar?

Yes, you can use third-party apps like OBS Studio or ShareX to record your screen.

Why does my screen recording have no sound?

Check if your microphone and system audio are enabled in the recording settings. Also, verify that app permissions for microphone access are granted.

Is screen recording available on all Windows 11 devices?

Most modern Windows 11 PCs support screen recording via Xbox Game Bar, but very old or specialized devices might not have full support.

How do I change the folder where recordings are saved?

By default, recordings are saved in the Videos > Captures folder. You can change this location in Xbox Game Bar settings or use third-party apps that allow custom save paths.

When Nothing Works

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

Run Windows Update: Sometimes system updates fix bugs related to Xbox Game Bar and screen recording.
Reset Xbox Game Bar: Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps, find Xbox Game Bar, and select Advanced options. Here, you can reset the app.
Create a new user profile: Sometimes user profile corruption causes issues. Creating a new user can help isolate the problem.
Check official Microsoft support: Visit Microsoft Support for detailed help and updates.

Conclusion

Screen recording not working on Windows 11 can be frustrating, but most issues are fixable with a few simple steps. Start by ensuring Xbox Game Bar is enabled and has the right permissions. Check your shortcuts, storage, and update your drivers regularly.

If problems persist, restarting the app or using alternative software can be effective solutions. Remember to keep your system updated and consult official support when needed.

With these clear and basic steps, you should be able to troubleshoot and restore screen recording functionality on your Windows 11 PC.