Critical Error Start Menu

Are you staring at a ‘Critical Error – Your Start Menu Isn’t Working’ message on your screen?

You’re not alone.

Millions of Windows 10 and 11 users have faced this exasperating issue, but today, you’re going to beat it.

I’m going to guide you step-by-step through simple fixes to more advanced troubleshooting methods that don’t just work in theory—they work in real life.

Whether it’s a corrupted file, a rogue application, or a deeper system issue, we’re diving deep to get your Start Menu up and running.

Understanding the Issue

This guide addresses the “Critical Error – Your Start Menu Isn’t Working” error message. This is a frequent problem for users of Windows 10 and 11. The error might happen because system files have been altered, settings are corrupted, or there are leftovers from uninstalled apps that are causing conflicts.

Simple Fixes

• Restart Windows Explorer: This action can often fix the Start Menu issue. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager, find Windows Explorer in the list, right-click it, and select Restart.
• Boot into Safe Mode and Restart: Starting your computer in Safe Mode loads only essential drivers and programs, which can help resolve some errors.
• Re-register the Start Menu: Using a specific PowerShell command can re-register the Start Menu and potentially fix the error.

More Advanced Fixes

• Create a New User Account: If simpler methods fail, setting up a new user account may resolve problems related to your user profile.
• Perform a System Restore: Use a system restore point from before the error began to potentially fix the issue.
• Reset Windows Without Losing Data: If other fixes do not resolve the issue, you can reset Windows while keeping your personal files.
• Download the Start Menu Troubleshooter: Microsoft provides a troubleshooting tool that can identify and resolve issues with the Start Menu.
• Restore System to an Earlier State Point: If you’re experiencing recurring crashes of the Start Menu, restoring your system to an earlier state might help.

Other Considerations

Install the Latest Windows 10 Update. You may need to find a workaround to update your system since the Start Menu error might prevent accessing the Settings.

Boot Into Safe Mode and Then Return to Normal Mode. This solution has helped many users, though it might only be a temporary fix.

Antivirus Software. Sometimes, third-party antivirus software can cause this critical error. Consider uninstalling and then reinstalling it.

Barco ClickShare Fix. A specific script related to Barco ClickShare might solve the problem.

Updating System Files

• Use System File Checker: The System File Checker (SFC) tool can scan and repair missing or corrupted system files. To run it, open Command Prompt as Administrator and type sfc /scannow.
• DISM Tool: Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) can fix Windows corruption errors that SFC cannot. Open Command Prompt as Administrator and type DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth.

Optimizing Startup Programs

• Disable Unnecessary Startup Programs: Reducing the number of programs that load at startup can help improve system performance and potentially resolve startup errors. Use Task Manager to disable items that do not need to start automatically.

Checking for Hardware Issues

• Check for Faulty Hardware: Sometimes, hardware issues can cause Windows to display error messages. Check your memory and hard drive for errors using Windows Memory Diagnostic and checking tool for the hard drive.

Precautions and Assistance

Before attempting any fixes, be sure to back up all important data. Procedures like resetting Windows or performing a system restore can potentially erase your data. If you feel unsure about performing these steps on your own, it’s advisable to contact a professional computer technician for help.