If you've ever encountered the dreaded critical error message in the Windows 10 start menu that says «Critical Error – Your Start menu isn't working. "We'll try to fix it the next time you sign in."You're far from alone. This annoying error can appear suddenly, causing the Start menu to stop working, even preventing you from accessing apps and settings, or, in the most extreme cases, causing your PC to freeze. Over the years and across versions, many users have encountered this problem, and a multitude of different solutions circulate online, some more effective and others very specific depending on the root cause of the problem or even the business environment in which it occurs.
In this article we are going to tell you in a way exhaustive and detailed all the proven methods that have worked to resolve this error, including precautions, technical steps, simple methods and some more advanced ones so you can regain control of your computer and use the start menu normally again. Stay until the end to learn even the common causes and how to prevent the error from happening again.
What is the critical start menu error in Windows 10?
The message usually indicates that the start menu has stopped working properly due to an internal failure in the operating system. It's often accompanied by another similar message about Cortana or the system's search bar. The most common text is:
- Critical Error – Your Start menu isn't working. We'll try to fix it the next time you sign in.
- Critical Error – Start menu and Cortana aren't working. We'll try to fix it the next time you sign in.
When it appears, we cannot access the start menu, search for apps, or open Settings from the Windows icon, which severely limits everyday tasks on the computer. The system may even become unstable or other elements on the taskbar may freeze.
The causes can be varied: corrupted system files, problems with updates, user conflicts, software antivirus or third-party programs, failures when migrating devices between domains or users, or even errors when integrating calendar applications or services like ClickShare. It's important to note that, although the error is annoying and may seem serious, there are proven and accessible solutions for both basic and advanced users.
Recommendations before attempting any solution
Before you rush into applying the most invasive methods, make a backup of your important files and data. There are solutions (such as system reset or restore) that can cause the loss of installed programs or, rarely, personal files. Use tools like File History Windows, manual copies to external drives or third-party applications such as MiniTool ShadowMaker, which allows you to make full backups or synchronize files to disks or USB drives easily and securely.
Basic methods to fix the start menu error
1. Restart the computer
It seems simple, but restart the pc has resolved the issue for many users. Click Ctrl + Alt + Delete, choose the button On and select RestartIf the problem persists after one or two reboots, continue with the following methods.
2. Enter safe mode and return to normal mode
Walk into safe mode and then returning to normal mode may "reset" some affected system components. Do this:
- press Windows + L to lock the device.
- Click on On, long press Shift and select Restart.
- In the boot options, go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup settings and click on Restart.
- When the computer restarts, press F5 to enter safe mode with networking.
- Once inside, restart the PC again in normal mode.
Many users report that after this process, the start menu works again.. Of course, sometimes the error can return after a while.
3. Install the latest Windows updates
The windows updates Fixes known bugs and errors. If you can't open Settings from the Start menu, try this:
- press Windows + R.
- Write ms settings: and press Enter to open Settings.
- Go to Update & Security > Check for updates.
- Install all available updates and reboot.
For older versions (such as Windows 10 version 1511), find the version and update by following the wizard.
Intermediate and advanced solutions for the critical start menu error
4. Create a new administrator user
The error may be due to the fact that the user profile is corruptedCreating a new user usually solves this problem:
- Open the Task Manager Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
- Click on File > Run new task.
- Write powershell and check “Create this task with administrative privileges.”
- Run the command:
net user username password /add - Reboot and log in with the new user.
En Settings > Accounts > Family and other usersYou can also create a new graphical user. If the menu works in this new account, you can migrate your files.
5. Use the Start Menu Troubleshooter
Microsoft launched a specific tool for the start menu, although it's no longer on the official website, it can be downloaded from alternative links. Download and run it following the instructions. This tool identifies common faults and repairs them automatically, although some users point out that it is a temporary or partial solution.
6. Run System File Checker (SFC)
El System File Checker repair essential Windows files:
- Open a window CMD as administrator (you can do this from Task Manager > File > Run New Task, type cmd and marks administrative privileges).
- Write sfc / scannow and hit Enter.
- Wait for the scan to complete and repair the damaged files.
7. Reinstall the Start menu and re-register Cortana
If the errors continue, you can Reinstall the Start Menu and Cortana packages from PowerShell:
- Opens PowerShell as administrator.
- Run:
Get-AppXPackage -AllUsers | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"} - When finished, restart your PC.
This will reinstall the base applications and may eliminate the error if it was due to a corrupted or misregistered package.
8. Restore the system to a previous point
If the fault appeared after an update or other intervention, It may be easy to return to a previous restore point:
- press Windows + R and writes rstrui.exe.
- Choose a restore point prior to the error and follow the wizard.
- Restart your computer and check if the boot menu works.
Remember that you'll lose any programs installed after the restore point, but your personal files won't be affected.
9. Uninstall conflicting applications such as Dropbox or third-party antivirus
Some programs, like Dropbox or non-native antivirus programs can cause the Start menu error. Uninstall them from the Control Panel:
- press Windows + R and writes appwiz.cpl to open Programs and Features.
- Find Dropbox (or your third-party antivirus) and click on uninstall.
- Restart the computer.
10. Apply specific scripts for permission issues or external integrations
In professional environments or after domain migrations, they can occur Permission errors in user foldersMicrosoft has scripts to repair these permissions, such as FixUserShellFolderPermissions.ps1. Run the script in PowerShell with elevated permissions. In some cases, this may be necessary with parameters. -register -force and reboot.
Don't forget to review the script before running it, especially on company computers or if you're unsure of its origin.
11. Restore Windows to factory state (reset)
If none of the above works, the last option is reset Windows using the recovery options:
- press Windows + L, Click on On and press Shift + Reset.
- In the recovery options, select Troubleshoot > Reset this PC.
- Choose “Keep my files” to keep your personal documents.
This process completely reinstalls Windows. It asks you to choose to keep your personal files (although you'll lose installed apps), making it a drastic but effective solution.
Prevention and common causes
The error is usually related to:
- Faulty Windows Updates or poorly installed.
- Corrupted system files due to unexpected shutdowns, malware, or failed installations.
- Conflicts with third-party applications such as Dropbox, unofficial antivirus or system customization utilities.
- User migrations or permission changes, especially in companies or after changing the domain team.
- Errors after integrating external applications (e.g. ClickShare with the main Windows calendar).
To prevent this from happening again, keep your system up to date, use a good official antivirus and avoid system tweaking programs or programs from untrusted sources. If you need to migrate user accounts, do so following Microsoft's recommended procedures.
Facing a critical Windows 10 Start menu failure is easily solved if you know all the tried-and-tested methods available: from simple reboots, Safe Mode, and restores, to using scripts for permissions, creating new users, or performing a full system reset. Protect your data with backups, keeping your system up to date and periodically reviewing installed programs can prevent this annoying error from appearing again in the future.
