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How to Fix Windows 11 Apps Crashing Due to a Corrupted User Account: Step-by-Step Solutions

Windows 11 apps crashing can be frustrating, especially when the cause is a corrupted user account. This issue often prevents apps from opening or functioning correctly. Fortunately, there are several straightforward methods to fix this problem.

This guide will walk you through step-by-step solutions to repair or work around a corrupted user account. Each step is explained in simple terms so you can follow along easily.

By following these instructions, you should be able to restore app functionality without losing important data. Let’s get started with some quick checks.

These solutions range from basic troubleshooting to more advanced fixes, ensuring you have options no matter your comfort level.

Quick Note: Before You Begin

  • Backup Important Data: Always save your personal files and documents before making changes to your user account.
  • Check for Windows Updates: Sometimes, app crashes happen due to outdated system files. Go to Settings > Windows Update and install any available updates.
  • Restart Your PC: A simple restart can sometimes clear temporary glitches causing apps to crash.
  • Verify Internet Connection: Some apps require a stable internet connection to work properly.

Step 1: Run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter

Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter designed to detect and fix problems with apps from the Microsoft Store. This is often the easiest way to start resolving app crashes.

  1. Click on the Start button and select Settings.
  2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  3. Find Windows Store Apps in the list and click Run.
  4. Wait as the troubleshooter scans your system and attempts to fix issues.
  5. Follow any on-screen instructions it provides.

This tool checks for common problems like corrupted app files or permission issues, which could cause crashes.

Step 2: Reset the Problematic App

If only specific apps are crashing, resetting them can often fix corrupted app data without affecting your files.

  1. Open Settings and click on Apps > Installed apps.
  2. Find the app that crashes and click the three dots next to it.
  3. Select Advanced options.
  4. Scroll down and click the Reset button.
  5. Confirm the reset when prompted.

Resetting an app clears its cache and reinstall its core components, which can resolve corruption-related crashes.

Step 3: Create a New User Account

If your user account is corrupted, creating a new account can be a practical workaround. This lets you start fresh while keeping your system intact.

  1. Open Settings and go to Accounts > Family & other users.
  2. Under Other users, click Add account.
  3. Choose I don’t have this person’s sign-in information.
  4. Select Add a user without a Microsoft account.
  5. Enter a new username and password, then click Next.
  6. Sign out of your current account and sign in to the new one.
  7. Check if apps work properly in the new account.

If apps work fine in the new account, your old user profile is likely corrupted.

Step 4: Use System File Checker to Repair Corrupted System Files

Corruption in system files can affect user profiles and cause apps to crash. The System File Checker (SFC) scans and repairs these files.

  1. Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click on Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
  2. In the Command Prompt window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  3. Wait for the scan to complete. This may take some time.
  4. If corrupted files are found, SFC will attempt to repair them automatically.
  5. Restart your PC after the process finishes.

Running SFC helps ensure system integrity, which is crucial for stable app performance.

Step 5: Use DISM Tool to Fix Windows Image

If SFC cannot fix the corruption, DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) can repair the Windows image files.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator again.
  2. Type the following commands one by one and press Enter after each:
    3. DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  3. Wait for each process to finish completely.
  4. Restart your computer.

This tool checks deeper Windows system files and repairs any damage that SFC couldn’t fix.

Step 6: Repair or Reinstall Windows 11 (Advanced)

If all else fails, you may need to repair your Windows installation or perform a clean reinstall. These steps are more advanced and should be done carefully.

Repair Windows 11 Using In-Place Upgrade

This method reinstalls Windows without deleting your files or apps.

  1. Download the latest Windows 11 ISO from the official Microsoft website.
  2. Mount the ISO by double-clicking the file.
  3. Run the setup.exe file.
  4. Choose Keep personal files and apps when prompted.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions until the process completes.

Clean Install Windows 11

This option erases your system and installs Windows fresh. Only do this after backing up all your data.

Refer to Microsoft’s official guide on creating a bootable USB and installing Windows 11.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why are my Windows 11 apps crashing only on one user account?

This usually happens due to corruption in that user profile’s settings or app data. Creating a new account can help isolate the issue.

Will resetting an app delete my data?

Resetting an app clears its cache and settings but typically does not delete your personal files within the app. However, some apps may lose saved data, so proceed with caution.

Can a corrupted user account cause system-wide problems?

Yes, a corrupted user account can affect app behavior and sometimes cause system instability, but it usually doesn’t damage Windows itself.

How do I know if my user account is corrupted?

Signs include frequent app crashes, slow performance, or inability to access certain settings. Creating a new account and testing apps can confirm this.

Is it safe to run DISM and SFC commands?

Yes, these are official Windows tools designed to detect and fix system file corruption. They do not harm your data.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and apps still crash, it might be time to seek additional help.

  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit Microsoft Support for personalized assistance.
  • Use Windows Recovery Options: Access advanced recovery from Settings > System > Recovery to reset or restore your PC.
  • Consider Professional Help: If you are uncomfortable performing advanced repairs, a technician can assist safely.

Conclusion

Windows 11 apps crashing due to a corrupted user account can be resolved using a series of increasingly advanced steps. Starting with simple troubleshooting like the Windows Store Apps troubleshooter and app resets can often fix the issue quickly.

Creating a new user account is a reliable workaround when profile corruption is the root cause. For deeper system problems, running SFC and DISM tools helps repair corrupted system files.

If necessary, repairing or reinstalling Windows 11 ensures a clean, stable environment for your apps. Remember to back up your important data before making significant changes.

With patience and these step-by-step solutions, you can restore your Windows 11 apps to proper working order and enjoy a smoother experience.

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