Discovering that some applications are absent from your Start Menu can be quite perplexing. This detailed tutorial will guide you through steps to address this issue on Windows 10, including the most up-to-date information to ensure you’re equipped with the latest troubleshooting methods.
Introduction to Start Menu Discrepancies
An issue that users may occasionally face is the Start Menu displaying missing or non-functional app tiles. This can occur following a significant upgrade, such as the latest Windows 10 feature update, or when introducing a new user profile. In this article, we’ll delve into the roots of this problem and provide a series of steps designed to rectify it.
Refreshing Your Windows Operating System
- Initiate by checking for Windows 10 system updates; press the Windows key + I to access Settings, then select ‘Update & Security’.
- Install any standing updates, or manually search for new ones. Once complete, reboot your computer to ensure changes take effect.
Ensuring Applications Are Current
- To update Microsoft Store apps, navigate to the Microsoft Store, tap on the three-dot menu, and choose ‘Downloads and updates’. From there, update any pending apps.
- For non-Store apps, visit the official download page of the respective apps to check for recent versions.
Conducting a Full System Scan
- Regular scans through Windows Defender protect your system, while third-party antivirus software can complement these measures through thorough scanning capabilities.
- Consider Malwarebytes for deep scans, which harmonizes with existing security software, or Microsoft’s own safety scanner tool.
Troubleshooting In-Built Features
- Windows 10 offers specific troubleshooting tools. Begin by searching for ‘troubleshooting’ in the Start menu and follow the prompts provided.
- Focus on Microsoft Store apps, and in Settings, ensure ‘Apply repairs automatically’ is toggled on.
Uninstalling Unwanted Programs
- Some preinstalled applications, labeled as bloatware, might be unnecessary for your use. To remove them, right-click on the undesired app and click ‘Uninstall’.
- You can also access ‘Apps & features’ in Settings to manage and remove applications, then restart your PC.
Fixing or Resetting Problematic Apps
- If an app is malfunctioning, Windows 10 provides options to repair or reset it to its default state. For third-party apps, open Settings, use Windows key + I, click on ‘Apps’, and locate the problematic app. Use ‘Advanced options’ to find repair or reset functions, and restart your PC if prompted.
- Occasionally, reinstalling the app may resolve issues.
Conclusion
The disappearance of apps from the Start Menu can be a temporary glitch or a sign of an underlying issue. By following the outlined steps, you can tackle this problem effectively. Should you need further assistance, don’t hesitate to use the contact form to seek further help.
FAQ
Q: What should I do if an app is missing from the Start Menu in Windows 10?
A: Begin by checking for Windows 10 system updates, ensuring all applications are up to date, and running a full system scan. You can also try troubleshooting, uninstalling bloatware, and repairing or resetting the app.
Q: How do I update an app that’s missing from the Start Menu?
A: For Microsoft Store apps, use the Store’s ‘Downloads and updates’ section. For other apps, visit the official download page to access the most recent version.
By adhering to these recommendations, you should be able to resolve the ‘Apps Missing from the Start Menu’ error and enjoy a fully functional, streamlined Windows 10 experience.
