Xbox App Not Working on PC Windows 11: Troubleshooting Guide

Experiencing issues with the Xbox app on your Windows 11 PC can be frustrating. Whether it’s failing to launch, crashing unexpectedly, or encountering errors during gameplay, this comprehensive guide will walk you through various troubleshooting steps to get the Xbox app back up and running smoothly.

1. Basic Troubleshooting Steps

Before diving into more complex solutions, try these basic fixes:

  • Restart Your PC: A simple restart can often resolve temporary glitches.
  • Check Your Internet Connection: Ensure you have a stable and active internet connection.
  • Update Windows: Make sure your Windows 11 is up to date with the latest updates.
  • Update the Xbox App: Check for updates within the Microsoft Store.

2. Sign-Out and Sign-In

A common fix involves signing out of the Xbox app and then signing back in. This can refresh your account credentials and resolve authentication issues.

  • Open the Xbox App.
  • Click on Your Profile Icon: Located in the top-left corner.
  • Select “Sign out”.
  • Close the App.
  • Re-open the Xbox App and sign in using your Microsoft account credentials.

3. Repair and Reset the Xbox App

Windows 11 provides built-in tools to repair or reset apps. Repairing attempts to fix the app without deleting data, while resetting restores the app to its default settings.

Repair the Xbox App

  1. Open Settings: Press Win + I.
  2. Click on Apps: Select “Apps & features”.
  3. Find the Xbox App: Scroll through the list or use the search bar.
  4. Click the Three Vertical Dots: Located next to the Xbox app.
  5. Select “Advanced options”.
  6. Scroll down and click “Repair”.
  7. Test the Xbox App: See if the issue is resolved.

Reset the Xbox App

If repairing doesn’t work, try resetting the app.

  1. Follow steps 1-5 above to access “Advanced options”.
  2. Scroll down and click “Reset”.
  3. Confirm the Reset: A warning message will appear. Click “Reset” again.
  4. Test the Xbox App: Launch the app and see if the problem is fixed. Note that you will likely need to sign back in.

4. Check Xbox Services

Sometimes, issues with Xbox services can prevent the app from working correctly. Ensure that necessary services are running.

  1. Open Services: Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
  2. Locate Xbox Services: Look for services like “Xbox Accessory Management Service”, “Xbox Live Auth Manager”, “Xbox Live Game Save”, and “Xbox Live Networking Service”.
  3. Check Status: Ensure these services are running. If a service isn’t running:
    • Right-click the service.
    • Select “Properties”.
    • In the “Startup type” dropdown, select “Automatic”.
    • Click “Start” if the service isn’t running.
    • Click “Apply” and then “OK”.

5. Reinstall the Xbox App

If none of the above solutions work, reinstalling the Xbox app can be an effective way to resolve persistent issues.

  1. Uninstall the Xbox App:
    • Open Settings: Press Win + I.
    • Click on Apps: Select “Apps & features”.
    • Find the Xbox App: Scroll through the list or use the search bar.
    • Click the Three Vertical Dots: Located next to the Xbox app.
    • Select “Uninstall”.
    • Confirm the Uninstall.
  2. Reinstall the Xbox App:
    • Open the Microsoft Store.
    • Search for “Xbox App”.
    • Click “Install”.

6. Check Date and Time Settings

Incorrect date and time settings can sometimes interfere with the Xbox app’s functionality. Ensure these settings are correct.

  1. Open Settings: Press Win + I.
  2. Click on Time & Language: Select “Date & time”.
  3. Ensure “Set time automatically” is turned on. If it’s already on, toggle it off and then back on.
  4. Verify the Time Zone: Make sure the correct time zone is selected.

7. Troubleshoot Network Adapter Issues

Sometimes, issues with your network adapter can cause problems with the Xbox app. Try resetting your network adapter.

  1. Open Settings: Press Win + I.
  2. Click on Network & Internet: Select “Advanced network settings”.
  3. Click on “Network reset”.
  4. Click “Reset now”.
  5. Confirm the reset: Your PC will restart.

8. Check for Conflicting Software

Certain third-party software, such as antivirus programs or VPNs, can sometimes interfere with the Xbox app. Try temporarily disabling these programs to see if it resolves the issue.

9. Run the System File Checker (SFC)

The System File Checker (SFC) is a utility in Windows that allows users to scan for and restore corrupt Windows system files.

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator: Search for “cmd”, right-click on “Command Prompt”, and select “Run as administrator”.
  2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  3. Wait for the scan to complete. This may take some time.
  4. Restart your PC.

10. Check for Driver Updates

Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers can sometimes cause issues with gaming applications like the Xbox app. Ensure your graphics drivers are up to date.

  • Update via Device Manager:
    1. Open Device Manager: Right-click on the Start button and select “Device Manager”.
    2. Expand “Display adapters”.
    3. Right-click on your graphics card and select “Update driver”.
    4. Choose “Search automatically for drivers”.
  • Update via Manufacturer’s Website: Download the latest drivers from the NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel website.

By following these comprehensive troubleshooting steps, you should be able to resolve most issues with the Xbox app on your Windows 11 PC. If the problem persists, consider contacting Xbox Support for further assistance.