Program does not start

Application cannot be opened

Read the complete step before making changes. Stop if unsure or if new warnings appear.

Restart PC
Save open documents in other programs. Click Start → Power → Restart and then open only the affected program.
Check program for updates
If it still opens: Check the program under “Help” or “About” for updates. Otherwise, download the current version from the official manufacturer website. You update store apps in the Microsoft Store via Library or Downloads.
Settings -> Apps -> Repair
Windows 11: Settings → Apps → Installed apps → three dots next to the app → Advanced options → Repair, if available. Windows 10: Apps → Apps and features → App → Advanced options. Reset can delete app data and is not the same as repair.
Run as administrator
Only for a known, trustworthy program that requires these rights: right-click on the shortcut → Run as administrator. Only confirm if the name and publisher are correct. Never start unknown downloads like this; ask the responsible person without administrator access.
Reinstall the program
First save the program data and settings and have license data ready. Uninstall it from Settings → Apps. Then install the current version from an official source. If you are unsure about the location of your data, do not uninstall it.
Check compatibility mode
For older classic Windows programs only: Right-click the program file or shortcut → Properties → Compatibility → Program Compatibility Troubleshooter. Follow the suggestions. The option is not available in all apps.