How to fix an irresponsive window key and start button

Ikechukwu Nzenwata 0 Reputation points
2025-09-30T13:51:48.96+00:00

Windows key doesn't do anything as well as cortana and some other icons on the taskbar

Windows for home | Other | Input and language
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  1. John DeV 147K Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-09-30T19:16:19.8233333+00:00

    Hi, good day!

    • When was the last time it worked properly?
    • Have you made any changes to your computer recently?

    Please let me know if you have tried the methods below.

    • Restart Windows Explorer

    Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.

    Select the Processes tab.

    Scroll down and look for Windows Explorer

    Right click then select Restart.

    • Please try to run SFC and DISM to check for any system errors and corrupted files.

    https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/using-system-file-checker-in-windows-365e0031-36b1-6031-f804-8fd86e0ef4ca

    After that, restart your computer

    Note: You can open command prompt by doing this,

    Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open Task Manager then click File

    Select "Run new task" then type: cmd

    Make sure to put a check mark on the "Create this task with administrative privileges" box

    Continue with the commands within the link above.

    • Repair all Windows apps via PowerShell

    Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open Task Manager then click File

    Select "Run new task" then type: powershell

    Make sure to put a check mark on the "Create this task with administrative privileges" box

    Copy and paste the command below one at a time then press Enter. Please ignore the red errors and let the process complete.

    Get-AppxPackage Microsoft.Windows.ShellExperienceHost | foreach {Add-AppxPackage -register "$($_. InstallLocation)\appxmanifest.xml" -DisableDevelopmentMode}
    
    Get-AppXPackage | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_. InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}
    

    Restart your computer

    I look forward to receiving your update and I'm willing to collaborate with you till we resolve the issue. Do keep me informed by clicking "Add comment" below.

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