Reinstalling the Default Windows 8 / 8.1 / 10 Apps

Windows Apps

An issue may occur with the default apps (Start menu, Edge, Cortana, Groove Music, etc.) that are built into the Windows Operating System (OS).

You can run a System File Check (SFC scan, How Do I Run the System File Checker in Microsoft Windows) to try to correct these issues. If the SFC scan does not work, there is a command that can be run which may resolve the issue without having to resort to a system restore point or an OS reinstall.

Note: This command does not work in safe mode.

1. Open up an Administrator PowerShell by opening the Start Menu and typing "PowerShell", then Right-Clicking and selecting Run as Administrator. Alternatively, you can open the Task Manager by right-clicking on the Taskbar, select Start Task Manager then selecting File > New Task, then typing "powershell.exe" and checking the option to Run as Administrator.
2. Type in the following command: Get-AppxPackage -allusers | foreach {Add-AppxPackage -register "$($_.InstallLocation)\appxmanifest.xml" -DisableDevelopmentMode}
3. Press the Enter key and wait for the command to complete. (You may not see activity in the PowerShell window, but it should be completed once C:\USERS\*username* reappears.)
4. Restart the System.

This re-registers all the default apps that are built in to Windows, and potentially may allow the programs to work correctly. If the issue persists, it may be necessary to attempt other OS repair options, such as reverting to a restore point or resetting the OS.