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How to Fix spreview-exe Not Working Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

If you are encountering the spreview.exe not working error on your Windows 11 system, you are not alone. This issue can prevent you from previewing images and files smoothly. Fortunately, there are simple ways to fix it.

This guide will walk you through easy-to-follow steps to resolve the problem. Each step is explained clearly to help even beginners understand and apply them without confusion.

By the end, you will know how to troubleshoot and potentially fix the error on your own. Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into the solutions.

Follow the steps carefully, and you should be able to restore the preview functionality on your Windows 11 PC.

Quick Note: Things to Check Before You Begin

  • Restart your computer: Sometimes, a simple restart fixes temporary glitches causing the error.
  • Check for Windows updates: Make sure your system is up to date by going to Settings > Windows Update and installing any available updates.
  • Close conflicting apps: Some third-party applications may interfere with spreview.exe. Try closing unnecessary programs running in the background.
  • Ensure sufficient disk space: Low storage can cause system processes to malfunction.

Step 1: Run the System File Checker (SFC) Tool

The System File Checker scans your Windows system files and fixes corrupted or missing files that can cause errors like spreview.exe not working.

  1. Click the Start button and type cmd.
  2. Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  3. In the Command Prompt window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  4. Wait patiently as Windows scans and repairs system files. This process can take 10-15 minutes.
  5. Once complete, restart your computer and check if the error persists.

Why this step matters: Corrupted system files are a common cause of executable errors. SFC helps maintain system integrity by repairing these files.

Step 2: Reset the Photos App

spreview.exe is linked to the Windows Photos app, which handles image previews. Resetting the app can fix issues caused by corrupted app data.

  1. Open Settings by pressing Win + I.
  2. Go to Apps > Installed apps or Apps > Apps & features.
  3. Search for Photos in the list of installed apps.
  4. Click the three dots next to the Photos app and select Advanced options.
  5. Scroll down and click the Reset button.
  6. Confirm the reset, then restart your PC.

Why reset helps: Resetting clears the app’s cache and restores default settings, which often solves preview-related issues.

Step 3: Re-register the Photos App Using PowerShell

If resetting the app does not work, try re-registering it using PowerShell commands. This reinstalls and reconfigures the app properly.

  1. Press Win + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin) or PowerShell (Admin).
  2. Copy and paste the following command, then press Enter:
Get-AppxPackage *Microsoft.Windows.Photos* | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)AppXManifest.xml"}
  1. Wait for the process to complete. You may see some red text; as long as no critical errors appear, this is normal.
  2. Restart your computer and test if the preview function works.

Why re-register: This process reinstalls the Photos app files and fixes any broken links within the system.

Step 4: Check File Associations

Sometimes, the preview error occurs because Windows does not know which app to use for certain file types.

  1. Open Settings (press Win + I).
  2. Go to Apps > Default apps.
  3. Scroll down and select Photos from the list.
  4. Make sure common image file types like .jpg, .png, and .bmp are set to open with Photos.
  5. If not, click on the file type and choose Photos as the default app.

Why this matters: Correct file associations ensure Windows uses the proper app to open and preview files.

Step 5: Scan for Malware

Malware infections can cause system executable errors. Running a full scan helps ensure your PC is clean.

  1. Open Windows Security by typing it in the Start menu.
  2. Click on Virus & threat protection.
  3. Choose Scan options and select Full scan.
  4. Click Scan now and wait for the scan to finish.
  5. Follow any instructions to remove threats if found, then restart your PC.

Why scan: Malware can corrupt system files and processes, causing errors like the one you’re facing.

Alternative Method: Use a Third-Party Image Viewer

If the problem remains unresolved, consider using a third-party image viewer like IrfanView or XnView. These apps provide reliable previews and additional features.

You can download these from their official websites and set them as default apps for image files as explained in Step 4.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is spreview.exe?

spreview.exe is a system process related to the Windows Photos app that handles file previews, especially images.

Why does spreview.exe stop working?

Common reasons include corrupted system files, issues with the Photos app, malware infections, or incorrect file associations.

Is it safe to reset or re-register the Photos app?

Yes, these are safe Windows troubleshooting steps that do not affect your personal files.

Will updating Windows fix the problem?

Often, yes. Updates include bug fixes and improvements that can resolve such errors.

Can I delete spreview.exe?

No, deleting system files can cause more issues. Instead, follow the repair steps outlined above.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above solutions fix the spreview.exe not working error, you can try these final options:

  • Create a new user account: Sometimes, user profiles get corrupted. Setting up a new account can help isolate the problem.
  • Perform a system restore: Roll back your system to a previous state when the preview was working fine. Search for System Restore in the Start menu to access this.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support for expert help.
  • Reset or reinstall Windows: As a last resort, backing up your data and resetting Windows can fix deep system issues.

Conclusion

The spreview.exe not working error can disrupt your workflow, but with the steps outlined in this guide, you can troubleshoot and likely fix it yourself. Begin with simple checks like restarting and updating, then move on to resetting or re-registering the Photos app.

Always ensure your system files are intact by running the SFC tool and keep your PC protected by scanning for malware. If needed, use alternative apps or seek professional support.

By following this step-by-step approach, you will improve your chances of restoring smooth preview functionality on Windows 11.

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