How to Fix “Desktop Window Manager Has Stopped Working” Error in Windows 10/11

The “Desktop Window Manager Has Stopped Working” error can disrupt your Windows experience by causing issues with visual effects, windows, and overall desktop performance. This error is typically related to problems with the Desktop Window Manager (DWM), which is responsible for managing desktop composition, visual effects, and Windows display. Resolving this issue involves identifying and addressing the root cause, which could range from corrupted system files to outdated drivers. This guide provides practical steps to fix the “Desktop Window Manager Has Stopped Working” error.

1. Restart the Desktop Window Manager Service

Restarting the Desktop Window Manager service can often resolve temporary issues.

• Open Task Manager:

  • Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.

• Restart DWM Service:

  • In the Task Manager window, go to the “Processes” tab.
  • Locate “Desktop Window Manager” or “Dwm.exe.”
  • Right-click on it and select “Restart” if available.

2. Update Graphics Drivers

Outdated or faulty graphics drivers can cause issues with the Desktop Window Manager.

• Open Device Manager:

  • Right-click the Start button and select “Device Manager.”

• Update Graphics Drivers:

  • Expand “Display adapters,” right-click your graphics card, and select “Update driver.”
  • Choose “Search automatically for updated driver software” and follow the prompts.

• Download Drivers from Manufacturer:

  • For the latest drivers, visit the graphics card manufacturer’s website (e.g., NVIDIA, AMD) and download the appropriate drivers for your model.

3. Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Corrupted system files can lead to issues with the Desktop Window Manager.

• Run System File Checker (SFC):

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator (search for “Command Prompt,” right-click it, and select “Run as administrator”).
  • Enter the following command and press Enter:

    sfc /scannow
    

  • Allow the scan to complete and follow any on-screen instructions to repair corrupted files.

• Run DISM Tool:

  • In the same Command Prompt window, enter:

    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
    

  • Wait for the process to complete and restart your computer.

4. Check for Windows Updates

Keeping Windows up-to-date can resolve bugs and improve system stability.

• Open Windows Update Settings:

  • Go to “Settings” > “Update & Security” > “Windows Update.”

• Check for Updates:

  • Click “Check for updates” and install any available updates.
  • Restart your computer if updates are installed.

5. Adjust Visual Effects Settings

Incorrect visual effects settings can affect the Desktop Window Manager.

• Open Performance Options:

  • Right-click on the Start button and select “System.”
  • Click “Advanced system settings” on the left side.
  • In the “System Properties” window, go to the “Advanced” tab and click “Settings” under “Performance.”

• Adjust for Best Performance:

  • Select “Adjust for best performance” to disable all visual effects, or manually check/uncheck options to optimize performance.
  • Click “Apply” and then “OK.”

6. Check for Malware

Malware can affect system processes, including the Desktop Window Manager.

• Run a Full System Scan:
  • Open your antivirus software and perform a full system scan to detect and remove any malware or viruses.

7. Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot can help determine if background programs or services are causing the issue.

• Open System Configuration:

  • Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.

• Configure Clean Boot:

  • Go to the “Services” tab, check “Hide all Microsoft services,” and click “Disable all.”
  • Go to the “Startup” tab and click “Open Task Manager.”
  • Disable all startup items and close Task Manager.
  • Click “OK” in the System Configuration window and restart your computer.

8. Check for Corrupted User Profile

A corrupt user profile can cause issues with system processes.

• Create a New User Profile:

  • Go to “Settings” > “Accounts” > “Family & other users.”
  • Click “Add someone else to this PC” and follow the prompts to create a new user account.

• Switch to New Profile:

  • Log out of your current account and log in with the new user profile to check if the issue persists.

9. Reinstall or Repair Affected Applications

Applications causing conflicts can affect the Desktop Window Manager.

• Reinstall Problematic Applications:
  • If the issue is linked to a specific application, try reinstalling or repairing the application through “Settings” > “Apps.”

Conclusion

The “Desktop Window Manager Has Stopped Working” error can disrupt your Windows experience by impacting visual effects and window management. By restarting the service, updating graphics drivers, and running system checks, you can address common causes of the issue. Adjusting visual effects, checking for malware, and performing a clean boot or creating a new user profile are additional steps to resolve more complex problems. Following these steps should help restore normal functionality to the Desktop Window Manager and improve your overall system performance.