How to Fix "This App Is Preventing Shutdown" on Windows 10

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When you attempt to shut down your Windows 10 PC and encounter the message "This app is preventing shutdown," it means that a program or process is currently running and has not allowed Windows to complete the shutdown process. This can be due to unsaved work, background tasks, or other issues. Here’s how you can troubleshoot and resolve this issue.
This app is preventing shutdown windows 10

1. Identify the Problematic App

Windows typically displays the name of the app or process that's preventing the shutdown. Pay attention to this message as it provides a clue about which application might be causing the issue.

  • Note the App Name: When the shutdown dialog appears, take note of the name of the app mentioned in the message.
  • Save Work: If it's an app with unsaved work, make sure to save any changes or close the app manually before attempting to shut down again.

2. Force Close the App

If you’re unable to close the app normally, you can use Task Manager to force close it.

  • Open Task Manager: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  • Find the App: Locate the app that’s preventing the shutdown in the "Processes" tab.
  • End Task: Right-click on the app and select "End task" to force it to close.

3. Use the Command Prompt to Force Shutdown

If the standard shutdown process isn’t working, you can use the Command Prompt to force a shutdown.

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
    • Press Windows + X and select "Command Prompt (Admin)" or "Windows PowerShell (Admin)."
  • Run Shutdown Command:
    • Type the following command and press Enter:
      shutdown /s /f /t 0
    • This command forces all running apps to close and shuts down the PC immediately.

4. Check for Background Processes

Sometimes background processes or services can prevent shutdown. Check for these and close them if necessary.

  • Open Task Manager: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  • Check Background Processes: Go to the "Processes" tab and look for any background processes that might be active.
  • End Processes: Right-click on any suspicious or unnecessary processes and select "End task."

5. Update or Reinstall Problematic Apps

If a specific app frequently prevents shutdown, it might be outdated or corrupted. Updating or reinstalling the app can help resolve the issue.

  • Update the App:
    • Open the Microsoft Store, go to "Downloads and updates," and check for updates for the app.
  • Reinstall the App:
    • If updating doesn’t help, uninstall the app through "Settings" > "Apps," and then reinstall it from the Microsoft Store or the app’s official website.

6. Check for Windows Updates

Sometimes system updates can fix bugs and issues related to shutdown problems.

  • Open Settings: Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  • Go to Update & Security: Click on "Update & Security" and then "Windows Update."
  • Check for Updates: Click "Check for updates" and install any available updates.

7. Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Corrupted system files can cause various issues, including problems with shutdown. Running SFC and DISM tools can help repair these files.

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
    • Press Windows + X and select "Command Prompt (Admin)" or "Windows PowerShell (Admin)."
  • Run SFC Scan:
    • Type the following command and press Enter:
      sfc /scannow
    • Wait for the scan to complete and follow any instructions provided.
  • Run DISM Tool:
    • After SFC completes, run the following command:
      DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
    • Wait for the process to complete, then restart your PC.

8. Check for Malware

Malware or malicious software can interfere with system processes, including shutdown operations. Running a malware scan can help detect and remove any threats.

  • Run Windows Defender Scan:
    • Open Settings (Windows + I), go to "Update & Security," and select "Windows Security."
    • Click on "Virus & threat protection" and then "Quick scan" or "Full scan."
  • Use a Third-Party Antivirus:
    • If you have a third-party antivirus program, use it to perform a full system scan.

9. Adjust Shutdown Settings

You can configure Windows to automatically close apps during shutdown to avoid this issue in the future.

  • Open Settings: Press Windows + I to open the Settings app.
  • Go to System: Click on "System" and then "Power & sleep."
  • Additional Power Settings: Click on "Additional power settings" under "Related settings."
  • Change Plan Settings: Click on "Change plan settings" next to your selected power plan.
  • Change Advanced Power Settings: Click on "Change advanced power settings."
  • Adjust Settings: Under "Power buttons and lid," make sure "When I close the lid" and "When I press the power button" are set to "Shut down" or "Sleep" as appropriate. Under "Shutdown settings," ensure "Turn on fast startup" is unchecked if you experience issues with it.

10. Perform a System Restart

Sometimes, simply restarting your computer can resolve issues with apps preventing shutdown. This can help clear temporary issues that might be causing the problem.

  • Restart Your Computer:
    • Click on the Start menu, select "Power," and then choose "Restart."

Conclusion

The “This app is preventing shutdown” issue can be resolved through various methods, from force-closing apps and running system checks to adjusting settings and updating software. By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the underlying cause, ensuring that your Windows 10 PC shuts down smoothly and efficiently. If the problem persists, consider reaching out to Microsoft support for further assistance.

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