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How to Fix Smart Status Not Working on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Smart Status is a useful feature in Windows 11 that helps you monitor device health and notifications at a glance. Sometimes, this feature might stop working properly, causing inconvenience. Fortunately, fixing Smart Status issues is usually straightforward.

This guide will walk you through simple and effective steps to get Smart Status working again on your Windows 11 PC. Each step is explained clearly so you can follow along even if you’re not very tech-savvy.

By the end of this article, you should be able to identify and fix common problems causing Smart Status to malfunction. Let’s get started with some quick checks.

Follow the steps in order, from the easiest to more advanced solutions, for the best results.

Quick Note: Before You Begin

Before diving into troubleshooting, make sure of the following:

  • Your Windows 11 system is up to date. Updates often fix bugs that may affect Smart Status.
  • Your device supports Smart Status and it is enabled in system settings.
  • You have a stable internet connection, as some Smart Status features require online access.
  • Restarting your computer can sometimes resolve temporary glitches, so try this first if you haven’t already.

Step 1: Restart the Smart Status Service

Windows runs many background services that keep features like Smart Status working. Sometimes these services stop unexpectedly. Restarting them can fix the issue.

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type services.msc and hit Enter. This opens the Services window.
  3. Scroll down and find the service related to Smart Status (it may be named something like SmartStatus or Device Health Service).
  4. Right-click the service and select Restart. If it is not running, select Start.
  5. Close the Services window and check if Smart Status is working now.

Why this matters: Restarting the service refreshes its connection to Windows and can clear temporary problems.

Step 2: Check for Windows Updates and Install Them

Microsoft regularly releases updates that fix bugs and improve system features. If Smart Status isn’t working, you may be missing an important update.

  1. Click the Start button, then select Settings.
  2. Go to Windows Update on the left sidebar.
  3. Click Check for updates. If updates are available, click Download and install.
  4. Once updates are installed, restart your computer.
  5. After restarting, check Smart Status again.

Why this matters: Updates ensure your system has the latest fixes and enhancements, which might resolve Smart Status issues.

Step 3: Verify Smart Status Settings

Smart Status might be disabled in your settings. It’s important to ensure it’s turned on so the feature can work properly.

  1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
  2. Navigate to System > Notifications.
  3. Look for Smart Status or related device notifications options.
  4. Make sure the toggle for Smart Status or device health notifications is turned On.
  5. Close Settings and see if the feature is now active.

Why this matters: If the feature is turned off, Windows won’t show Smart Status updates or alerts.

Step 4: Run the Windows Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes built-in troubleshooters that can automatically detect and fix common problems.

  1. Open Settings and go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  2. Look for a troubleshooter related to notifications, device health, or system services.
  3. Click Run next to the relevant troubleshooter.
  4. Follow on-screen instructions to complete the process.
  5. Restart your computer if the troubleshooter applies any fixes.

Why this matters: Troubleshooters can save time by automatically resolving common configuration errors.

Step 5: Reset Smart Status App or Component

If Smart Status is tied to a specific app or Windows component, resetting it can clear corrupted data.

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to Apps > Installed apps.
  3. Search for the Smart Status app or related device health app.
  4. Click the three-dot menu next to it and select Advanced options.
  5. Scroll down and click Reset. Confirm if prompted.
  6. After resetting, restart your PC and check if Smart Status works.

Why this matters: Resetting clears app data and settings that might be causing the problem.

Step 6: Update or Reinstall Device Drivers

Device drivers manage hardware communication with Windows. Outdated or faulty drivers can affect Smart Status, especially for devices like batteries or sensors.

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
  2. Look for devices related to system health, such as Batteries or System devices.
  3. Right-click each relevant device and choose Update driver.
  4. Select Search automatically for drivers and follow prompts.
  5. If updating doesn’t help, you can uninstall the device and then restart your PC. Windows will reinstall the driver automatically.

Why this matters: Proper drivers ensure smooth communication between hardware and Windows features like Smart Status.

Advanced Option: Use System File Checker

If Smart Status still isn’t working, corrupted system files might be the cause. The System File Checker (SFC) tool scans and repairs these files.

  1. Type cmd in the Windows search bar.
  2. Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  3. In the command window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  4. Wait for the scan to complete. It may take several minutes.
  5. If issues are found, SFC will attempt repairs automatically.
  6. Restart your PC and check Smart Status again.

Why this matters: This tool repairs damaged system files that might interfere with Windows features.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Smart Status in Windows 11?

Smart Status provides quick information about your device’s health, battery, and notifications directly in the system tray or device manager.

Why did Smart Status stop working suddenly?

This can happen due to system updates, corrupted files, disabled services, or driver issues.

Will resetting Smart Status delete my data?

No, resetting only clears temporary app data and settings related to the feature, not your personal files.

Can I use third-party tools to fix Smart Status?

It’s best to use Windows built-in tools and official updates to avoid further issues.

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

No, the steps are designed to be simple and detailed enough for all users.

When Nothing Works

If you’ve tried all the above steps and Smart Status still isn’t working, consider the following options:

  • Visit the official Microsoft Support page for additional help and updates.
  • Perform a system restore to revert your PC to a point before the problem started.
  • If feasible, reset Windows 11 while keeping your personal files (Settings > System > Recovery).
  • Contact Microsoft Support or a professional technician for personalized assistance.

Conclusion

Smart Status is a helpful feature that enhances your Windows 11 experience by keeping you informed about your device’s health. When it stops working, simple steps like restarting services, installing updates, and checking settings can often fix the problem. For more stubborn issues, tools like System File Checker and driver updates are useful.

Remember to start with the easiest fixes and move on to advanced options only if needed. Following this guide should help you restore Smart Status functionality smoothly and quickly.

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