My Windows 11 Start Button is no longer working.

Anonymous
2024-03-18T17:15:44+00:00

Hello,

Since yesterday my Windows 11 Start Button is no longer working.

It animates when I click it, but nothing else happens, also, my taskbar keeps switching on and off.

I don't know whether that is relevant or has anything to do with the problem, but two days ago I had Windows updates two days on the trot.

I have tried a number of recommended solutions, like commands in Pwoer shell, sfc /scannow, the DISM commands, updating my graphics drivcer, registry hacks, tried to re-install Windows but gave up when I saw I couldn't keep my files.

In short, none of the above have worked.

The thing is, some things I cannot do, like check my updates etc., as some Windows key commands don't work, eg. Windows + I.

Has anyone got any further advice for me, please?

Thank you very much in advance.

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Performance and system failures

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  1. Anonymous
    2024-03-22T02:29:01+00:00

    Hi, Klauwaart

    I'm really sorry, I really realize the importance of the start menu when you say that, a lot of approaches need to revolve around it.

    For the uninstalling of updates mentioned in method 1, you can right click on the start menu and select Display settings, which also opens the settings screen, and then follow the steps.

    For the restore operation mentioned in method 2, you can also open the settings via Display settings.

    • Select System > Recovery > Advanced startup > Restart now
    • Select Troubleshooting > Advanced options > System restore

    It should now operate smoothly, if you have any questions, feel free to let me know.

    Best Regards

    Martin | Microsoft Community Support Specialist

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  2. Anonymous
    2024-03-19T10:14:16+00:00

    Thank you very much for replying, Martin.

    However, the solutions you mention are impossible for me unless you know certain shortcuts.

    The problem is, my problem is not only restricted to the start button not working, the Windows key combinations don't work either (some still did yesterday), but Windows +I, Windows+R etc. do not work, nor can I type in the search bar.

    If you have any other ways of getting to Settings etc., please let me know.

    Thank you for your help so far.

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  3. Anonymous
    2024-03-19T07:02:40+00:00

    Hi, Klauwaart

    Welcome to the Microsoft Community.

    In addition to the many things you've already tried, you can try the following suggestions to see if they can help you eliminate or troubleshoot the problem:

    1. Uninstall the update: If you have recently installed Windows Update and are experiencing problems, here is how to uninstall the update to try to resolve the issue:
    • Select Settings > Windows Update > Update History > Uninstall Updates.
    • In the list that appears, find the update you want to remove and select "Uninstall". Note: Some updates cannot be uninstalled.
    1. Restore the system: Use System restore to make restore points when you install a new app, driver, or Windows update, and when you create a restore point manually. Restoring won’t affect your personal files, but it will remove apps, drivers, and updates installed after the restore point was made.
    2. create a new local account: Create a new account to see if the problem of unresponsive start menu clicks still occurs.

    If there is anything not clear, please do not hesitate to let me know.

    Best Regards

    Martin | Microsoft Community Support Specialist

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