How to Fix an App That Keeps Crashing on Your PC
By Site Editor · Updated September 16, 2026 · 8 min read
An app that crashes every time you open it usually has a quick fix — whether it is a corrupted installation, a missing update, or a settings conflict. This guide walks through the most effective solutions in order.
1. Update the app first
Open the Microsoft Store or the app's own update option and install the latest version. Developers regularly push patches for crash bugs, and a single update is often all it takes. After updating, restart your PC before testing again.
2. Run the app as administrator
Right-click the app's shortcut or .exe file and choose Run as administrator. Some apps crash because they lack the permissions needed to write files or access certain system folders. If it runs fine as an admin, you can make this permanent in the app's Properties → Compatibility tab.
3. Reinstall the application
Go to Settings → Apps → Installed apps, find the program, and uninstall it completely. Then download a fresh installer from the official website and reinstall. This replaces any corrupted program files that may be causing the crash.
4. Read the Windows Event Viewer for clues
Press Win + R, type eventvwr, and press Enter. Navigate to Windows Logs → Application and look for Error entries timed near the crash. The description and error code tell you whether the problem is a missing DLL, a driver conflict, or something the app itself reported before shutting down.
5. Check compatibility settings
Right-click the app → Properties → Compatibility. Try enabling Run this program in compatibility mode for and select an older Windows version. This helps with older software not fully updated for the current version of Windows.
Frequently asked questions
Will reinstalling an app delete my saved data?
It depends on the app. Apps that save data to the cloud (like game accounts tied to a login) are safe to reinstall. Apps that store data only locally will lose that data. Check whether the app has a cloud backup option before uninstalling.
Why does my app crash only on startup?
A crash on startup usually points to a corrupted settings or cache file rather than the app itself. Try clearing the app cache first. If that does not help, reinstalling gives the app a clean set of default settings to start from.
Can a Windows update cause an app to start crashing?
Yes. A Windows update occasionally changes a system component that an app depends on. If an app started crashing right after a Windows update, check the app developer's website for a compatible update or use System Restore to roll back the Windows change.