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Windows 11 crash - Win Explorer not working, taskbar blanked (no icons), apps reseted, files gone
Unfortunately, I couldn't use system restore - they said there were no restoring points and I couldn't even open Settings.
What effectually solved the problem and brought my computer back, was to reinstall Windows 11 through a bootable device without deleting programs and files. Actually, although it was bootable, when I booted it said that I "couldn't do that 'update' while on boot" and that I should do it with the computer turned in. I did it (installed it from the Pendrive while the computer was on and logged), reinstalled Windows and now it is backed on, exactly like before.
Problem solved. Working like a charm. And most importantly, I did a point of restoration already! hahaha
Just had the same thing happen to my DELL today with update KB5009469, and after several hours fixed my problem.
If you can get to the Settings (Windows logo key + i) within Windows, try to uninstall that particular update and/or go back to a previous restore point. I could not open the Settings (a blank window would launch for a few seconds and then close).
If you can't open the settings within Windows, CTRL-ALT-DEL and choose Restart while holding down the shift button (keep holding until it reboots). This will restart into a light blue screen. Choose TROUBLESHOOT>ADVANCED OPTIONS>SYSTEM RESTORE. Choose a restore point from before the update.
This worked for me and got me back to my original desktop, taskbar, and functioning Windows Start key (after several hours of frustration).
Hope this helps, and good luck!
Unfortunately, I couldn't use system restore - they said there were no restoring points and I couldn't even open Settings.
What effectually solved the problem and brought my computer back, was to reinstall Windows 11 through a bootable device without deleting programs and files. Actually, although it was bootable, when I booted it said that I "couldn't do that 'update' while on boot" and that I should do it with the computer turned in. I did it (installed it from the Pendrive while the computer was on and logged), reinstalled Windows and now it is backed on, exactly like before.
Problem solved. Working like a charm. And most importantly, I did a point of restoration already! hahaha
- I did a reinstall like you but it didn’t fix the blank taskbar issue.
- Same problem here. I have a Dell Vostro.
