Bringing the Numbers Back: Fixing the Calculator App Not Working in Windows 10

The Windows Calculator is a handy tool for everyday calculations, but encountering issues with this app can be frustrating. Here’s a comprehensive guide to troubleshoot and fix the “Calculator App Not Working” problem in Windows 10:

1. Basic Checks:

• Restart your computer: A simple restart can often resolve temporary glitches that might be causing the issue.
• Close and reopen the app: Try closing the Calculator app completely and then reopening it. This can sometimes refresh the app and fix minor issues.

2. Reset or Repair the App:

• Reset the app: This option re-sets the app to its default settings, potentially resolving any configuration issues. Here’s how:
  • Open Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
  • Search for “Calculator” in the list.
  • Click on “Calculator” and then on “Advanced options”.
  • Click on “Reset” and confirm the reset.
• Repair the app: If resetting doesn’t work, try repairing the app. This option attempts to fix corrupt files within the app. Follow the same steps as above, but click on “Repair” instead of “Reset”.

3. Update the App:

Outdated apps can sometimes malfunction. Here’s how to update the Calculator app:

• Open the Microsoft Store app.
• Click on your profile picture in the top right corner and select “Downloads and updates”.
• Click on “Get updates”.
• If an update is available for the Calculator app, it will be listed here. Click on “Update” to install the update.

4. Check for Permissions:

Ensure that the Calculator app has the necessary permissions to function properly. Here’s how:

• Open Settings > Privacy > Microphone (or any other permission you suspect might be causing issues).
• Make sure the toggle switch for “Calculator” is turned on.

5. Re-register the App (Advanced Users):

This method involves using PowerShell commands and is recommended for advanced users only. Proceed with caution and ensure you understand the commands before executing them. Here’s a summary of the steps:

• Open PowerShell as administrator.
• Run the following command: Get-AppXPackage Microsoft.Calculator | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}
• Press Enter. This command re-registers the Calculator app.

6. Run System File Checker (SFC):

SFC scans your system files for corruption and repairs them if necessary. Here’s how to run it:

• Open Command Prompt as administrator.
• Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
• This process may take some time, so be patient.
• If SFC detects and repairs corrupt files, restart your computer and see if the Calculator app works properly.

7. Create a New User Profile (Last Resort):

If none of the above solutions work, creating a new user profile can help determine if the issue is specific to your current user profile. However, this is a more complex step and should be considered a last resort. It’s recommended to back up your important data before proceeding.

Additional Tips:

• Check for antivirus interference: In rare cases, antivirus software might interfere with the Calculator app. Try temporarily disabling your antivirus and see if the issue persists. Remember to re-enable it afterward.
• Seek professional help: If none of these solutions work and you’re still encountering issues, consider seeking assistance from a qualified computer technician.

By following these steps systematically, you should be able to identify and fix the underlying cause of the Calculator app not working in Windows 10 and get back to crunching numbers with ease.