How to Fix Grayed Out Background Apps in Windows Settings

Key Notes

  • Use Group Policy Editor to enable background apps.
  • Check and modify power settings to optimize background app functionality.
  • Reset the Windows Store cache to clear potential corruption.

How to Fix Grayed-Out Background Apps in Windows Settings

If you’ve noticed the option to enable Background Apps is unavailable in Windows Settings, you’re not alone. This guide addresses this common issue and provides simple yet effective solutions to restore access, ensuring your background apps function smoothly.

Resolve Grayed Out Background Apps in Windows Settings

If you find that the Background Apps setting is grayed out, follow these systematic solutions to troubleshoot the issue:

Step 1: Enable Background Apps via Group Policy Editor

Begin by enabling background apps through the Group Policy Editor. Follow these steps:

  1. Press Windows + R to launch the Run dialog, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.
  2. In the Group Policy Editor, navigate to: Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > App Privacy.
  3. Double-click the Let Windows apps run in the background option in the right pane.
  4. Choose Enabled, select User is in control under Options, and click OK.
  5. Restart your computer to apply changes.

Pro Tip: Make sure you have administrative rights to access the Group Policy Editor.

Step 2: Modify Power Settings

Adjusting your Power Management settings can also alleviate this issue. Here’s how:

  1. Open the Control Panel and navigate to Hardware and Sound > Power Options > Edit Plan Settings.
  2. Click on Change advanced power settings.
  3. Ensure the settings under Battery, Plugged in, and On battery are properly configured.
  4. Click Apply and then OK to confirm changes.

Pro Tip: Consider resetting Power defaults for optimized performance.

Step 3: Reset Windows Store Cache

Clearing the Windows Store cache can fix grayed out settings. To reset the cache:

  1. Press Windows + R to open Run.
  2. Type wsreset.exe and press Enter.
  3. Wait for the process to complete and check if the issue is resolved.

Step 4: Update Graphics Card Driver

Outdated graphics drivers may cause background apps settings to be unavailable. Here’s how to update them:

  1. Navigate to Settings and then to Update & Security > Windows Update.
  2. Click View optional updates to see if any driver updates are available.
  3. Choose the graphic driver update and install it.

Pro Tip: Consider downloading drivers directly from your manufacturer’s website or using driver update tools.

Step 5: System Restore to a Previous Point

If the issue persists, running a System Restore may resolve conflicts caused by changes in the system. Here’s a simplified method:

Follow the System Restore guide based on your Windows version and select a restore point prior to experiencing the issue.

Additional Tips

  • Always ensure your Windows is updated to the latest version to mitigate bugs.
  • Check for any third-party applications that might interfere with system settings.
  • Review user account permissions if issues arise after a system update.

Summary

In summary, if the option to enable Background Apps in Windows Settings is grayed out, you can resolve it through Group Policy Editor, Power Management adjustments, cache resets, driver updates, and System Restore. Following these detailed steps should restore your system functionality.

Conclusion

Understanding the causes behind the grayed-out settings in Windows can empower you to troubleshoot effectively. With these targeted steps, you should be able to regain control over your background apps and enhance your Windows experience.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Why are my settings greyed out in Windows?

Settings may be grayed out due to inactive permissions, corrupt files, or updates that require administrative intervention.

How do I fix Windows Update greyed out?

Try running the Windows Update troubleshooter and restarting the service, or reset update components if the problem persists.