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WinDbg: Start a user mode session

WinDbg logo with a magnifying glass inspecting bits.

This article describes how to start a user mode session with WinDbg.

Select File > Start debugging, and select either of these four options:

  • Launch executable: Starts an executable and attaches to it by browsing for the target.
  • Launch executable (advanced): Starts an executable and attaches to it by using a set of dialogs with advanced options.
  • Attach to process: Attaches to an existing process.
  • Launch app package: Starts and attaches to an app package.

Launch executable

Use this option to start an executable and attach to it.

Browse to the executable that you want in the file dialog and open it.

Launch executable (advanced)

Use this option to start an executable and attach to it by using a set of text boxes with advanced options.

Specify the following options:

  • Executable: Path to the executable, such as C:\Windows\notepad.exe.
  • Arguments: Optional arguments to provide to the executable when launched.
  • Start directory: Optional start directory location.
  • Target bitness: Options are Autodetect, 32 bit, or 64 bit.
  • Debug child processes: Option to enable the debug child process.
  • Record with Time Travel Debugging: Option to enable Time Travel Debugging.

Screenshot of the Launch executable (advanced) dialog displaying options.

Attach to process

Use this option to attach to an existing process.

Select Show process from all users to show more processes.

Use the search box to filter down the process list, for example, by searching for SystemApps.

Note

Items with a User Account Control shield need the debugger to be elevated to attach.

Use Attach to select Non-invasive attach.

Screenshot of the Attach to process dialog with process list and options.

Launch app package

Use this option to launch and attach to an app package by using either the Applications or Background Task tabs. Use the search box to locate a specific app or background task. Select Package Details to display information about the package.

Screenshot of the Launch app package Applications tab with search results for cal and three apps displayed.