Fixes for PowerShell Has Stopped Working Error on Windows

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Windows PowerShell is a powerful command-line tool designed to help IT professionals, developers, and even regular users automate tasks, manage configurations, and run administrative scripts. However, like any system component, PowerShell is not immune to errors. One of the most frustrating problems Windows users face is the dreaded PowerShell has stopped working message.

This guide walks you through the potential causes behind this issue and offers tested, step-by-step solutions to help restore PowerShell functionality on your computer.

Understanding the "PowerShell Has Stopped Working" Error

When this error appears, it often means that PowerShell is crashing unexpectedly. In many cases, the program stops working before a script or command can be executed. You might see a message like:

"Windows PowerShell has stopped working. A problem caused the program to stop working correctly. Windows will close the program and notify you if a solution is available."

This issue prevents users from executing essential administrative commands, running scripts, or performing automation tasks, making it critical to resolve.

Common Causes of PowerShell Stopping Working

Understanding the root cause is essential before jumping into troubleshooting. Here are the most common reasons:

• Corrupted System Files: Damage to essential system components can crash PowerShell.
• Malware or Virus Infection: Malicious software can target system utilities like PowerShell.
• Conflicting Third-Party Applications: Recently installed apps may interfere with PowerShell processes.
• Corrupted User Profile: User-specific settings might be corrupted, affecting PowerShell functionality.
• Outdated or Corrupted PowerShell Installation: Older or incomplete installations may cause crashes.
• Incorrect System Environment Variables: Misconfigured system variables can disrupt PowerShell execution.

Solutions to Fix PowerShell Has Stopped Working

Method 1. Preliminary Checks

Before diving into complex troubleshooting, perform these basic checks:

• Start Your Computer Again: Simple reboots often resolve temporary glitches.
• Run PowerShell as Administrator: Right-click the PowerShell icon and select "Run as Administrator" to bypass permission issues.
• Check in Safe Mode: Booting into Safe Mode can help determine if third-party apps are causing conflicts.

If PowerShell still crashes after these checks, proceed with the solutions below.

Method 2. Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

One of the most common causes of "PowerShell has stopped working" is corruption in critical system files. Over time, improper shutdowns, failed Windows updates, malware infections, or disk errors can damage these files, causing built-in tools like PowerShell to malfunction or crash entirely.

Windows provides two powerful utilities to address this:

• SFC (System File Checker): Scans your system for corrupted or missing files and replaces them with known good versions from a cached copy.
• DISM (Deployment Imaging Servicing and Management): Repairs deeper issues within the Windows image, ensuring that even system files used by SFC are intact.

Together, these tools can resolve most system-level file integrity problems.

1. Type cmd into the Command Prompt by pressing Win + S. Then, right-click on it and choose "Run as Administrator."
2. Type the below command and hit Enter:

   sfc /scannow

3. Wait for the scan to complete. If SFC finds and repairs issues, restart your PC.

If the problem persists, run DISM:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

This command repairs the Windows system image, which may resolve deeper corruption.

Method 3. Check for Malware or Virus Infections

Malware can disable or corrupt system utilities, including PowerShell. Run a full system scan using:

Windows Security (Defender):

1. To access Privacy & Security > Windows Security > Virus & Threat Protection, press Win + I.

2. Click Quick Scan or choose Full Scan for a thorough check.

Third-Party Antivirus Tools:

Use reputable programs like Malwarebytes or Bitdefender for deep system scans.

If infections are found, quarantine or remove them, then restart your PC and test PowerShell.

Method 4. Disable Conflicting Startup Programs

Third-party apps launching at startup might interfere with PowerShell. Perform a Clean Boot to isolate the issue.

1. Type msconfig using Win + R, then hit Enter.
2. Click Disable all after selecting Hide all Microsoft services under the Services menu.

3. Click Open Task Manager under the Startup tab, then turn off every startup item.

4. Start your PC and check if PowerShell works.

If it functions normally, gradually re-enable services to identify the problematic application.

Method 5. Create a New User Profile

A corrupted user profile can prevent PowerShell from operating correctly.

Steps to Create a New Profile:

1. To access Settings, press Win + I.
2. Select Accounts > Other Users > Add account.
3. Follow prompts to create a new local or Microsoft account.
4. Sign in with the new account and test PowerShell.

If PowerShell works in the new account, the original profile may be corrupted. You can transfer data and continue using the new profile.

Method 6. Re-register PowerShell

Sometimes, re-registering PowerShell fixes issues with corrupted components.

1. Launch Command Prompt in Administrator mode.
2. Run the below mentioned command to re-register PowerShell for all users:

   Get-AppXPackage -AllUsers | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}

3. Restart your computer.

This process restores default PowerShell configurations and may resolve crashes.

Method 7. Update Windows and PowerShell

An outdated Windows version or PowerShell build can cause compatibility issues.

Steps to Update Windows:

1. Click Check for Updates after selecting Windows Update by pressing Win + I.
2. Install all pending updates and restart your PC.

To Update PowerShell (Standalone Installations):

1. Visit the official Microsoft PowerShell download page:

   https://github.com/PowerShell/PowerShell

2. Download the latest version suitable for your system.
3. Install it following on-screen instructions.

Updated versions often include bug fixes and stability improvements.

Method 8. Reset Environment Variables

Incorrect or missing environment variables can cause PowerShell to malfunction.

Steps to Reset Variables:

1. Press Win + S, search Environment Variables, and open Edit the system environment variables.

2. Under System Properties, change to Advanced tab, click Environment Variables.

3. Ensure essential variables like Path contain necessary entries:

   C:\Windows\System32\WindowsPowerShell\v1.0\

4. If entries are missing, add them manually, then restart your PC.

Method 9. Advanced Troubleshooting Options

If basic fixes don't work, consider these advanced steps:

1. Analyze Event Viewer Logs

1. Choose Event Viewer by pressing Win + X.
2. Go to Windows Logs > Application and search for PowerShell-related error reports.
3. Review the logs to identify specific faulting modules or patterns.

Logs can reveal clues about underlying system conflicts.

2. Check System Reliability Report

1. Type perfmon /rel using Win + R, then hit Enter.
2. System failures and mistakes are displayed over time via the Reliability Monitor.
3. Locate PowerShell crashes and review associated details.

3. Reinstall PowerShell (Advanced Users)

On modern Windows versions, PowerShell can be reinstalled separately.

1. Uninstall PowerShell via Apps & Features if installed as a standalone.
2. Download the latest installer from the official PowerShell GitHub page.
3. Install the latest stable version.

💡 Note: For built-in PowerShell tied to Windows core components, reinstalling the entire system may be required if severe corruption exists.

What to Do If Cannot Fix PowerShell Has Stopped Working

If you've exhausted all solutions and PowerShell remains non-functional:

Option 1. System Restore

Run System Restore to revert your system to an earlier working state:

1. Press Win + S, type Create a restore point, and open it.
2. Under System Protection, click System Restore.
3. Follow the wizard to restore your system.

This reverts system settings and files without affecting personal data. Also, you need to make a restore point before. Otherwise, you cannot restore system in this way.

Option 2. Windows Repair Install (Last Resort)

A repair install reinstalls Windows while keeping personal files and most applications:

1. Download the latest Windows ISO from Microsoft's official site.
2. Run the setup and choose to install Windows and keep your personal files and apps.
3. Follow prompts to perform a repair installation.

This method refreshes system files and can fix persistent PowerShell errors.

Preventive Tips to Avoid PowerShell Crashes

• Regularly Update Windows: Keeps your system stable with security patches and bug fixes.
• Use Reliable Antivirus: Prevents malware from corrupting system tools.
• Avoid Untrusted Scripts: Only run scripts from trusted sources to avoid damaging configurations.
• Backup System Settings: Use System Restore points and backup tools regularly.
• Monitor System Health: Check for disk errors and system integrity periodically.

Conclusion

The "PowerShell has stopped working" error can severely hinder your ability to manage, automate, and troubleshoot your Windows system. Fortunately, most issues stem from fixable causes like system file corruption, conflicting apps, or outdated installations.

This guide has provided multiple solutions ranging from basic system checks to advanced troubleshooting methods. Start with simpler fixes like SFC scans and user profile tests, progressing to advanced steps only if needed.

If PowerShell continues to fail despite these efforts, seeking professional technical support is advisable to prevent further complications.

By following these steps and practicing preventive measures, you can restore and maintain PowerShell's functionality, ensuring your system remains productive and reliable.