
Microsoft PC Manager is a great utility designed to let you perfectly optimize your Windows PC. Whether it’s managing storage, cleaning temporary files, boosting performance, or protecting against threats, it’s a pretty versatile tool.
Recently, many PC users have complained that Microsoft PC Manager either fails to install or doesn’t work properly after installation. In this detailed guide, I’m going to discuss the 8 most effective ways to fix the Windows 11 PC Manager not working or installing problem. Read on…
Fix Microsoft PC Manager Not Working or Installing
What derails the built-in PC manager malfunction? Well, it happens due to many conflicts such as software conflicts, outdated system files, or insufficient permissions. Thankfully, there are several reliable solutions to get rid of the issue.
1. Check System Requirements and Compatibility
Note that Microsoft PC Manager requires Windows 10 (version 1809 or later) or Windows 11 to run. Therefore, make sure to check the system requirements.
- If your system is running an older version of Windows, the installer may not proceed.
- On your PC, head over to Settings > System > About to check your Windows version, and update via Settings > Windows Update if needed.

2. Run the Installer as Administrator
Be warned that some installations require elevated permissions to write system files or registry entries.
- Simply, right-click the PC Manager installer and select Run as administrator to avoid permission issues.
- This ensures that the setup process completes without being blocked by user account control (UAC).
3. Temporarily Disable Antivirus or Firewall
It’s worth pointing out that overprotective antivirus programs or firewalls may flag PC Manager as a suspicious app.
- Temporarily disable them during installation and re-enable them afterward (Navigate to Settings app > Privacy & security > Windows Security).
- This helps avoid unnecessary conflicts while installing or launching the tool.
4. Clear Microsoft Store or Browser Cache
Are you downloading the app from the Microsoft Store or official website? Keep in mind that the cache issues can corrupt the download.
- So, make sure to clear your browser cache or reset the Microsoft Store using the command wsreset.exe.
- It ensures that you’re installing a fresh and complete copy of the software.
5. Update Windows and Install Pending Patches
Microsoft PC Manager relies on the latest system libraries and components.
- If your PC is missing updates, it may prevent the tool from running correctly.
- Go to Settings > Windows Update and install any pending updates to ensure full compatibility.

6. Reinstall Microsoft PC Manager
Corrupted installation files or interrupted setups can cause the app to misbehave or crash.
- Uninstall the existing copy via Settings > Apps > Installed apps.

- Now, find the app in question and hit the triple-dot icon next to it.
- Hit Uninstall and confirm the action.
- Then, redownload it from the official site.
- Reinstalling can reset all components and fix any broken dependencies.
7. Check for Software Conflicts
Background processes from optimization tools like CCleaner or third-party antivirus suites can interfere with PC Manager.
- To get it done, disable or uninstall conflicting apps temporarily and see if the issue is resolved.
- This avoids redundancy and allows PC Manager to function without being blocked.
8. Use the Troubleshooter or Event Viewer
If the app still won’t install or open, take advantage of the Windows Troubleshooter.
- Head over to the Settings app on your PC > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.

- For deeper diagnosis, open Event Viewer and check logs under Windows Logs > Application for error details related to PC Manager.
- This helps pinpoint the specific cause and guide more advanced fixes.
Wrapping up..!
And that’s about it! Microsoft PC Manager is a handy tool for keeping your PC clean and fast, but installation or launch issues can make it frustrating to use. Whether it’s a permissions problem, a blocked process, or an outdated OS, these 8 solutions are designed to tackle the most common causes.
By following these steps, you should be able to get Microsoft PC Manager working smoothly again. If none of the methods help, consider reaching out to Microsoft Support or checking community forums for more targeted assistance.