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wsophia's avatar
wsophia
Bronze Contributor
Jan 05, 2025

Windows Media creation tool won't open - how to fix?

I'm having trouble with the Windows Media Creation Tool, as it won't open on my system. I've tried running it as an administrator and checking for Windows updates, but nothing seems to resolve the is...
Application Management
security
WainkusRobert's avatar
WainkusRobert
Iron Contributor
Jan 06, 2025

If Windows Media Creation Tool won't open. Sometimes, a simple restart can fix stubborn issues. So give that a go first! Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc. Look for any instance of the Media Creation Tool running in the background. If it's there, end the task and try launching it again. The downloaded file may be corrupted. Try downloading the latest version of the Media Creation Tool from the official Microsoft website. Make sure to download it directly from Microsoft to ensure you get a legitimate version.

Sometimes, pending Windows updates can cause issues. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and check for updates. Install any available updates and restart your computer. Even though you've checked your settings, sometimes antivirus software can still block certain applications. Temporarily disable your antivirus or security software and try to run it if Windows Media Creation Tool won't open.

Right-click on the Media Creation Tool executable, go to Properties, then to the Compatibility tab. Check the box for “Run this program in compatibility mode for” and select an older version of Windows (like Windows 8). Click OK and try running it again. Open Command Prompt as an administrator (search for Command Prompt, right-click, and select "Run as administrator") and type the following command:
sfc /scannow
This command scans and repairs any corrupted system files that could be causing issues with launching applications.

Look for any errors related to the Media Creation Tool won't open. Open Event Viewer by typing Event Viewer in the search bar, then check under Windows Logs > Application for any relevant error logs when you try to launch it.

A clean boot helps eliminate software conflicts. Type msconfig in the Run dialog (Win + R), select "Selective startup," uncheck "Load startup items," and under the Services tab, check "Hide all Microsoft services," then "Disable all." Restart your computer and try running the Media Creation Tool.

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