Looking for a long-lost app or program? There are several ways you can find what you need. Select Start , and then scroll through the alphabetical list on the left (if your Start screen is set to show as full screen, select All apps, and then scroll through the list).

The Program Install and Uninstall troubleshooter helps you automatically repair issues when you're blocked from installing or removing programs.

Learn how to open and run DxDiag.exe on Windows to collect device information and troubleshoot DirectX sound and video issues.

To open the Start menu—which contains all your apps, settings, and files—you can do any of the following: On the center or left end of the taskbar, select the Start icon.

Here's more info on what permissions allow an app to do: Access all your files, peripheral devices, apps, programs, and registry: The app has the ability to read or write to all your files (including documents, pictures, and music) and registry settings, which allows the app to make changes to your computer and settings. It can use any peripheral devices that are either attached or part of ...

Safe mode starts Windows in a basic state, using a limited set of files and drivers. If a problem doesn't happen in safe mode, this means that default settings and basic device drivers aren't causing the issue.

If you're running Windows 8.1 or earlier, or if your PC doesn't meet the minimum system requirements to run Windows 11, consider moving to a new Windows 11 device. Find a PC that meets your needs. Set up your Microsoft account to transfer files and favorites. One account connects your device across Microsoft apps and services like Microsoft 365, OneDrive, Edge, and Microsoft Store.

Note: If you have previous activity history stored in the cloud before Windows 11 23H2 and 22H2, January 23, 2024-KB5034204 update, you can use the Clear activity history button to delete previously stored data in the cloud. Otherwise, your activity history will be automatically deleted within 30 days from when your data was last synced to the cloud

Notes: Meeting recordings won't capture whiteboards, annotations, shared notes or content shared in the stage view by apps, and also won't include videos or animations embedded in PowerPoint Live presentations.

Learn how to remove malware from your PC. Use Microsoft Defender Antivirus in Windows 10 or Windows 11 to scan your PC for malware, viruses, or other threats.