How to Prevent the Get Help App from Malfunctioning in the Future

To ensure the Get Help app functions smoothly and avoids future malfunctions, it’s essential to implement proactive maintenance and troubleshooting strategies. Below are some best practices and tips to prevent the Get Help app from malfunctioning on Windows 11/10:

1. Keep Windows Updated

Regular updates are crucial for maintaining the functionality and security of your operating system. Ensure your Windows 11/10 system is always up-to-date by following these steps:

Open Settings: Press Win + I to open the Settings app.
Go to Update & Security: Select Update & Security.
Check for Updates: Click the Check for updates button.

2. Regularly Update the Get Help App

Ensure the Get Help app itself is always updated to the latest version:

Open Microsoft Store: Launch the Microsoft Store app.
Go to Library: Click on Library in the Microsoft Store.
Update the App: Find the Get Help app and click Update.

3. Reset or Repair the Get Help App

Periodically resetting or repairing the app can resolve any underlying issues:

Open Settings: Press Win + I to open the Settings app.
Navigate to Apps: Click on Apps.
Select Get Help: Find and click on Get Help in the list of installed apps.
Reset the App: Click Advanced options and then click Reset.

4. Clear App Cache

Corrupted cache files can cause the app to malfunction. Clearing the cache can help:

Open Run: Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
Access App Data Folder: Type %localappdata%\Microsoft\GetHelp and press Enter.
Delete Cache Files: Navigate to the Cache folder and delete its contents.

5. Restart the Diagnostic Policy Service

This service handles various system tasks and can affect the Get Help app:

Open Services: Type Services in the Windows search box and click the Services app.
Restart the Service: Find Diagnostic Policy Service, right-click it, and select Restart.

6. Check Network Connectivity

Ensure your internet connection is stable, as the Get Help app requires an active connection to function properly:

Test Your Internet: Open a web browser and check if the internet is working.
Reset Network Settings: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Status > Network reset.

7. Disable Conflicting Software

Sometimes, other software like VPNs or firewalls can interfere with the Get Help app:

Disable VPN/Firewall: Temporarily disable any VPN or firewall software.
Close Background Applications: Use Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) to close unnecessary applications.

8. Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs, helping to identify conflicts:

Open System Configuration: Type msconfig in the Run dialog (Win + R).
Disable Non-Microsoft Services: In the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services and click Disable all.
Disable Startup Items: Go to the Startup tab and disable all startup items.

9. Install Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime

The Get Help app relies on this runtime to function properly. Ensure it is installed:

Download the Runtime: Visit the Microsoft Edge Developer website and download the Evergreen Standalone Installer.
Install the Runtime: Run the installer and follow the instructions.

10. Create a New User Profile

Corrupted user profiles can cause app malfunctions. Creating a new user profile can resolve this:

Open Settings: Press Win + I.
Go to Accounts: Click on Accounts.
Add a New User: Select Family & other users > Add someone else to this PC and follow the prompts.

Professional Perspective

Preventing the Get Help app from malfunctioning involves a combination of regular maintenance, proactive updates, and troubleshooting steps. Keeping your system and apps updated is the first line of defense. Regularly clearing cache files, resetting the app, and ensuring stable network connectivity can also prevent common issues. For more persistent problems, a clean boot or creating a new user profile can help identify and resolve underlying conflicts.

By following these best practices, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of the Get Help app malfunctioning, ensuring you have access to the support you need when you need it.