Microsoft Paint, the classic image editing tool that has been a part of Windows since its inception, has undergone several changes over the years. While the application has become more feature-rich, it can sometimes encounter issues that prevent it from functioning properly. If you’re experiencing problems with the Microsoft Paint app, there are several steps you can take to repair it and get it back up and running.
Repair Microsoft Paint from the Settings App
The easiest way to repair the Microsoft Paint app is through the Settings app on your Windows PC. Here’s how to do it:
Open the Settings app by pressing the Windows key I on your keyboard.
In the Settings app, navigate to the “Apps” section.
Click on “Apps & features” in the left-hand menu.
Scroll down and find the “Microsoft Paint” entry in the list of installed apps.
Click on the “Microsoft Paint” entry to expand the details.
Click on the “Advanced options” link.
In the “Reset” section, click the “Repair” button to initiate the repair process.
This process will attempt to fix any issues with the Microsoft Paint app without deleting any of your existing data or settings.
Reinstall Microsoft Paint from the Microsoft Store
If the repair process doesn’t work, you can try reinstalling the Microsoft Paint app from the Microsoft Store. Here’s how:
Uninstall Microsoft Paint
Open the Settings app and navigate to the “Apps & features” section.
Locate the “Microsoft Paint” entry in the list of installed apps.
Click on the “Uninstall” button to remove the app from your system.
Install Microsoft Paint from the Microsoft Store
Open the Microsoft Store app on your Windows PC.
Search for “Microsoft Paint” in the search bar.
Click on the “Get” button to install the app.
Once the installation is complete, the Microsoft Paint app should be fully functional and ready to use.
Troubleshoot Microsoft Paint Issues
If you’re still experiencing issues with the Microsoft Paint app, there are a few additional troubleshooting steps you can try:
Clean Boot Your Windows PC
A clean boot can help identify any background programs that may be interfering with the Microsoft Paint app. To perform a clean boot, follow these steps:
Press the Windows key R to open the Run dialog box.
Type “msconfig” and press Enter.
In the System Configuration window, go to the “Services” tab and check the “Hide all Microsoft services” box.
Click “Disable all” to disable all non-Microsoft services.
Click “Apply” and then “OK” to save the changes.
Restart your computer.
Check for Windows Updates
Microsoft may release updates that address issues with the Microsoft Paint app. Make sure your Windows 10 or Windows 11 system is up-to-date by checking for and installing any available updates.
Remove the Microsoft Store Cache
The Microsoft Store cache can sometimes cause issues with Microsoft Paint and other Store apps. You can clear the cache by following these steps:
Press the Windows key R to open the Run dialog box.
Type “wsreset.exe” and press Enter.
Wait for the Microsoft Store cache to be cleared.
By following these steps, you should be able to repair and restore the functionality of the Microsoft Paint app on your Windows PC.