How to Restore a Default App That Was Reset in Windows 10

In Windows 10, there are times when a default app, like “Mail,” “Calculator,” or “Camera,” might be reset or stop working correctly. This can happen after a system update, the installation of third-party software, or seemingly without any reason. In this guide, we’ll cover how to restore a reset app and get it back to working as it should.

1. Restart Your Computer

Before moving on to more complex steps, try the simplest and quickest method: restart your computer. Sometimes, system changes don’t apply immediately, and a simple reboot can help resolve the issue.

2. Use the Microsoft Store to Restore the App

Windows 10 allows you to reinstall or update default apps directly through the Microsoft Store:

  • Open Microsoft Store from the Start menu or search bar.
  • In the store's search bar, type the name of the app you want to restore (e.g., “Calculator”).
  • Locate the app in the search results and click “Get” or “Install” if it isn’t installed.

3. Reset the App through Windows Settings

Windows 10 has a built-in app reset function that can help if the app is malfunctioning. Here’s how to use it:

  1. Open Settings (Win + I) and go to Apps.
  2. In the list of apps, locate the reset app and select it.
  3. Click Advanced Options and then select Reset.

This function will delete the app’s data and restore it to its default state, which can often fix issues with its operation.

4. Use PowerShell to Reinstall All Default Apps

If multiple apps are affected, it may be helpful to reinstall all default apps via the PowerShell command line. Proceed with caution and follow these steps:

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Windows PowerShell (Admin).
  2. In the PowerShell window, type the following command and press Enter:
Get-AppxPackage -AllUsers| Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}

This command will reinstall all built-in Windows 10 apps, which should restore them to working condition.

5. Check for Updates

System updates can also restore the functionality of default apps. To check for updates:

  1. Open Settings and go to Update & Security.
  2. Click Check for updates and install any available updates.

6. Use the Microsoft Store Apps Troubleshooter

Windows 10 includes a troubleshooting tool specifically for Microsoft Store apps. To access it:

  1. Open Settings, go to Update & Security, and select Troubleshoot.
  2. Find and run Microsoft Store Apps Troubleshooter, following the on-screen instructions.