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How to Fix Windows 10 Experience Index Missing Error with Easy Steps

Windows 10 Experience Index was a useful feature that rated your computer’s hardware performance. However, sometimes this feature may go missing or stop working. This can be confusing if you rely on it to check your system’s capabilities.

Fortunately, fixing the missing Windows 10 Experience Index is usually straightforward. You don’t need advanced technical knowledge to follow the steps provided here. Each step is explained clearly to help you get back the feature quickly.

Before diving into detailed solutions, it’s good to understand why this error happens. It may occur due to system updates, corrupted files, or disabled services. Fixing these issues will restore the Experience Index.

Let’s explore easy and effective ways to resolve the missing Windows 10 Experience Index error without stress.

Quick Note: Basic Checks Before You Start

  • Check Windows Version: Make sure your Windows 10 is updated. Sometimes, outdated versions cause features to malfunction.
  • Confirm System Files Integrity: Corrupted system files can disable certain tools. We will cover how to verify and fix this later.
  • Ensure You Have Administrative Rights: Some fixes require you to run commands or access protected settings.
  • Backup Important Data: Although these steps are safe, it’s always wise to back up your files before making system changes.

Step 1: Rebuild the Windows Experience Index Data

The Windows Experience Index stores its performance scores in a specific system file. If this file is missing or corrupted, the Experience Index won’t show. Rebuilding this file often fixes the issue.

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator. To do this, click the Start menu, type cmd, right-click on Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
  2. In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:
    winsat formal
  3. This command runs the Windows System Assessment Tool, which measures your hardware’s performance and rebuilds the Experience Index data.
  4. Wait until the process completes. It may take a few minutes.
  5. After it finishes, check if the Experience Index is visible again by going to Control Panel > System and Security > System and looking for the Windows Experience Index section.

Step 2: Manually Access the Assessment Results

Sometimes, the Experience Index isn’t shown in the System window but the data still exists. You can view it manually.

  1. Open File Explorer and navigate to:
    C:WindowsPerformanceWinSATDataStore
  2. Look for files named with Formal.Assessment and today’s date.
  3. Open the latest XML file with a text editor like Notepad.
  4. Scroll through to find the scores related to CPU, memory, graphics, and disk.
  5. This lets you see the Experience Index details even if the graphical interface is missing.

Step 3: Check Windows Services

The Windows Experience Index depends on certain services running properly. If these services are disabled, the feature won’t work.

  1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
  2. In the Services window, scroll down to find Diagnostic Policy Service.
  3. Double-click the service, make sure the Startup type is set to Automatic.
  4. If the service is stopped, click Start.
  5. Click Apply and OK.
  6. Restart your computer and check if the Experience Index returns.

Step 4: Run System File Checker (SFC) Scan

Corrupted system files can cause features to disappear. Running the System File Checker tool helps repair them automatically.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator (see Step 1 for instructions).
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
    sfc /scannow
  3. The scan will check your system files and attempt to fix any problems.
  4. Wait until the process completes (this might take some time).
  5. Restart your PC and verify if the Experience Index is restored.

Alternative Method: Use PowerShell to Rebuild Experience Index

If Command Prompt doesn’t work or you prefer PowerShell, follow these steps:

  1. Press Windows + X and select Windows PowerShell (Admin).
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
    Get-WmiObject -Class Win32_WinSAT
  3. Then run:
    Invoke-CimMethod -InputObject (Get-CimInstance -Class Win32_WinSAT) -MethodName RunAssessment
  4. This will trigger the assessment and rebuild the Experience Index.
  5. After completion, check for updates in your system’s Performance Information.

FAQs

Why is the Windows Experience Index missing in Windows 10?

Microsoft removed the graphical user interface for the Experience Index in newer Windows 10 versions, but the underlying tool still exists. It may also disappear due to corrupted system files or disabled services.

Can I reinstall the Windows Experience Index?

There’s no separate installation since it’s built into Windows. You fix issues by rebuilding the data or repairing system files as shown in the steps above.

Is the Windows Experience Index important?

It helps you understand your hardware’s performance and compatibility with software. While not essential for everyday use, it’s useful for troubleshooting and upgrades.

Does running ‘winsat formal’ harm my PC?

No, it simply tests your system’s performance and does not change any settings.

What if I can’t access Command Prompt as administrator?

You need administrative privileges to run these commands. If your account lacks permission, ask your system administrator or enable the built-in Administrator account.

When Nothing Works

If all the above steps fail, consider the following options:

  • Update Windows: Check for the latest Windows updates and install them. Sometimes Microsoft fixes bugs in updates.
  • Create a New User Profile: A corrupted user profile might cause issues. Try creating a new Windows user and see if the Experience Index appears there.
  • Reset or Reinstall Windows: As a last resort, resetting or reinstalling Windows can fix persistent problems but be sure to back up your data first.
  • Official Microsoft Support: Visit Microsoft Support for additional help and tools.

Conclusion

Fixing the missing Windows 10 Experience Index is easier than it seems. Most issues occur due to missing data files, disabled services, or corrupted system files—all of which you can fix with simple commands and settings adjustments.

Start with running the assessment tool, check necessary services, and use system repair tools like SFC. If needed, PowerShell provides an alternative method to rebuild the data. Always ensure your system is updated and backed up before making changes.

By following these easy steps, you can restore the Experience Index and continue monitoring your PC’s performance with confidence.

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