How to Fix “App Not Responding” Errors in Windows 10/11

Have you ever been working on an important task when suddenly an app freezes with the dreaded “Not Responding” message? 😫 Don’t worry—you’re not alone. This is one of the most common Windows problems.

In this guide, we’ll show you step-by-step solutions to fix app not responding errors in Windows 10 and 11. These methods are safe, easy, and effective—whether the issue is with Word, Chrome, or any other program.

🔍 Why Do Apps Stop Responding in Windows?

Before fixing the issue, it’s important to understand the possible causes:

• 🔄 Software bugs or outdated versions
• 🐌 Too many background apps consuming resources
• 💾 Low RAM or storage space
• 🦠 Malware or corrupted files
• ⚡ Driver issues or system errors

✅ Quick Fixes Before Trying Advanced Methods

Sometimes, a simple fix solves the problem:

1. Wait a few seconds – Windows may be processing a large task.
2. Close unnecessary apps – Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc → Task Manager → End apps you don’t need.
3. Restart your PC – The classic fix often clears temporary glitches.

If the issue keeps happening, move on to the solutions below.

🛠️ Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix App Not Responding in Windows

1. End the Frozen App with Task Manager

• Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
• Find the unresponsive app under Processes.
• Select it → Click End Task.
• Restart the app.

👉 If the app keeps freezing, continue to the next steps.

2. Update the Problematic App

• Open Microsoft Store → Click Library → Select Get Updates.
• If downloaded from the web, visit the official site and download the latest version.

📌 Outdated software often causes compatibility issues with Windows updates.

3. Run Windows Troubleshooter

• Go to Settings → System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters.
• Select Program Compatibility Troubleshooter.
• Follow on-screen instructions to fix issues.

4. Check for Windows Updates

• Press Win + I → Update & Security → Windows Update.
• Click Check for updates.
• Install pending updates and restart your PC.

5. Clear Temporary Files

• Press Win + R, type %temp%, and hit Enter.
• Select all files (Ctrl + A) → Delete.
• Restart your computer.

📌 This frees up space and removes corrupted cache files.

6. Scan for Malware

• Open Windows Security → Virus & Threat Protection.
• Run a Full Scan.
• Remove any detected threats.

🔒 Malware often causes system instability and app crashes.

7. Update System Drivers

• Press Win + X → Select Device Manager.
• Expand Display adapters, Sound, or other hardware related to the issue.
• Right-click → Update driver.

👉 Outdated drivers = frequent app freezing.

8. Increase Virtual Memory (Paging File)

If your PC has low RAM, apps may freeze.

• Press Win + R, type sysdm.cpl, press Enter.
• Go to Advanced → Performance Settings → Advanced → Virtual Memory.
• Uncheck Automatically manage → Set custom size (usually 1.5x your RAM).
• Restart PC.

9. Run SFC & DISM (Repair Corrupted Files)

• Open Command Prompt (Admin).
• Run:

  sfc /scannow
  

• Then run:

  DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  

• Restart PC.

📌 These commands repair system files that may cause freezing.

10. Reinstall or Reset the App

• Go to Settings → Apps → Installed Apps.
• Find the app → Advanced Options → Reset.
• If it doesn’t work, uninstall and reinstall it.

📹 Bonus: Video Guide (Embed on CrackHow)

👉 Record a screen capture video showing each step:

• Ending task in Task Manager
• Updating apps & drivers
• Running SFC/DISM commands

This increases engagement & SEO value.

⚡ Pro Tips to Prevent “App Not Responding” in the Future

• Keep Windows & apps updated
• Avoid running too many heavy apps at once
• Clean junk files regularly (use tools like CCleaner)
• Upgrade RAM if your system often lags
• Use trusted antivirus software

📝 Final Thoughts

“App Not Responding” errors in Windows 10/11 can be frustrating, but with the solutions above, you can quickly get back on track. Start with simple fixes (updates, restart, clearing cache) and move to advanced methods (SFC, drivers, virtual memory) if needed.

If none of these work, the issue may be with hardware—in that case, upgrading RAM or storage is often the ultimate fix.