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Fix Windows Application Crashes (Reinstall, Update Drivers, Compatibility Mode)

✅ Quick Answer

If an app keeps crashing on Windows 10/11, the cause is usually outdated drivers, corrupted app files, missing dependencies, or compatibility issues. The fastest fix is to update the app, reinstall it, update your graphics & system drivers, and run the app in Compatibility Mode. If crashes continue, check system files using SFC and DISM.

❓ Why Apps Crash Frequently in Windows?

Application crashes are common in Windows because apps rely on multiple system components: drivers, runtime libraries, system files, and hardware resources. When any of these components become unstable or corrupted, the app may close unexpectedly.

Some common reasons for app crashes are:

Corrupted app files or installation
Outdated or missing drivers (especially GPU)
Conflicting antivirus or background apps
Compatibility issues (older apps on new Windows)
Corrupted system files

The good news is that most app crashes can be fixed without reinstalling Windows. Follow the steps below to fix the issue quickly.

🔧 Fix 1: Update or Reinstall the App

Most app crashes happen due to corrupted files or outdated versions. Updating or reinstalling often fixes it.

Open Settings → Apps → Installed apps.
Find the crashing app and click Uninstall.
Restart your PC.
Download the latest version from the official website and install again.
Open the app and test.

If the app is from Microsoft Store, go to Microsoft Store → Library → Updates. Update the app and restart.

🔧 Fix 2: Run App in Compatibility Mode

Older apps may crash on Windows 11 because they were built for previous Windows versions. Compatibility Mode can solve this.

Right-click the app shortcut and select Properties.
Go to the Compatibility tab.
Check Run this program in compatibility mode.
Select Windows 8 or Windows 7.
Click Apply and OK.
Open the app again.

If the app still crashes, try running it as administrator by checking Run this program as an administrator.

🔧 Fix 3: Update Graphics & System Drivers

Gaming apps and heavy software often crash because of outdated GPU drivers. Updating drivers can fix crashes, freezes, and performance issues.

Press Windows + X → Device Manager.
Expand Display adapters.
Right-click your GPU and choose Update driver.
Choose Search automatically.
Restart your PC after updating.

For NVIDIA or AMD GPUs, download the latest drivers from the official website.

🔧 Fix 4: Disable Conflicting Background Apps

Background apps like antivirus, VPN, or overlay software can conflict with apps and cause crashes. A clean boot helps identify the culprit.

Press Windows + R, type msconfig and press Enter.
Go to Services tab.
Check Hide all Microsoft services.
Click Disable all.
Go to Startup tab and click Open Task Manager.
Disable startup apps one by one and restart.

If the app stops crashing, enable services one by one to find the conflicting app.

🔧 Fix 5: Repair System Files with SFC & DISM

Corrupted system files can cause apps to crash. Use SFC and DISM to repair them.

Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
Type: sfc /scannow and press Enter.
Wait for the scan to finish.
Then run:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Restart your PC after the scan. Most app crashes will be resolved after system repair.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Why does only one app crash but others work fine?

This usually means the app files are corrupted, or it conflicts with drivers or background apps. Reinstalling the app often fixes it.

Can outdated Windows cause app crashes?

Yes. Always keep Windows updated because updates include important fixes for stability.

Should I reset Windows to fix app crashes?

Resetting should be the last option. Most crashes can be fixed using the above steps.