Have you encountered the dreaded “critical error” message when trying to access your Windows 10 Start menu? This frustrating issue can prevent you from using basic functions on your computer. However, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve the problem.
Accessing the Settings Menu
If the critical error is preventing you from accessing the Start menu, there’s a workaround to reach the Settings menu. On your keyboard, press the **Windows R** keys together to bring up the Run box. Type **ms-settings:** in the empty box and press Enter. This will open the Settings panel directly. From there, you can navigate to the Update & Security section and check for any available updates.
Booting into Safe Mode
One of the most effective ways to resolve the critical error is by booting into Safe Mode. Here’s how to do it:
When Windows 10 starts, press Windows Key L to log out.
Click the “Power” button in the bottom right corner, hold “Shift” on your keyboard and click “Restart”.
Your computer should now restart to boot options. Go to “Troubleshoot” > “Advanced options” > “Startup Settings”. Click the “Restart” button.
Once your computer restarts again, press F5 to access “Safe Mode” with Networking.
Just by entering Safe Mode, your problem should be resolved. All you have to do now is to restart your computer
3
.
Creating a New Administrator Account
Another potential solution is to create a new administrator account and sign in with it to fix the Start menu critical error. Here’s how:
Click Start, then open Settings.
Tap “Accounts” and go to Family and others.
Then, add another person to this PC.
Select both the options asking for sign-in information and Microsoft account.
Set a username, create a strong password and its hint, and click “Next” and “Finish.”
Log out by tapping the Power Icon – “Sign out.”
Sign in with your new account to repair the Windows 10 Start menu errors
3
.
Updating Windows System
If the critical error persists, it’s worth checking for any available Windows updates. Here’s how to do it:
On your keyboard, press the Windows R keys together to bring up the Run box.
Type ms-settings: in the empty box and press Enter.
On the Settings panel, click Update & Security and then Check for updates.
If you’re running Windows 10 version 1511, you should navigate to System > About > Version. Follow the wizard to install the most recent update that is currently available on your PC.
Running a System File Check
Another troubleshooting step is to run a System File Check (SFC) to scan for and repair any corrupted system files. Here’s how:
Open Command Prompt (CMD) as an administrator.
Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
The SFC tool will scan your system and attempt to fix any issues it finds
3
.
Reinstalling the Start Menu and Cortana
If the critical error is specifically affecting the Start menu and Cortana, you can try reinstalling them using PowerShell. Here’s the command to run:
Get-AppXPackage -AllUsers | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register $($_.InstallLocation)AppXManifest.xml}
Copy and paste this command into PowerShell with admin access, press Enter to run it, restart your File Explorer task in Task Manager, and try clicking the Start button again. The critical error should resolve.
Resetting the Computer
If none of the above methods work, you can try resetting your computer to its factory settings as a last resort. This will reinstall the operating system, remove all installed applications and files, and restore the system to its original state. However, be sure to back up all important data before proceeding.
By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to resolve the critical error and restore full functionality to your Windows 10 Start menu. If the issue persists, it’s recommended to seek further assistance from Microsoft Support or a qualified IT professional.