App Installation Issue - I'm not sure what update caused it

mccnavy · Nov 25, 2023

I apologize if this issue has already been covered...I may have used wrong key words to find a solution. A few weeks ago my machine started having issues with some *.exe app installation files. Some work just fine and open as expected. Others, however, act like they are about to open (i.e. you see the "working" cursor) and then disappear...nothing happens. In order to install the app I copy as path, and enter the command in Terminal and they open. Before I go to the extreme of trying to repair Windows...it passes SFC...is there something else going on or is this something to do with 23H2 compatibility/security? Any ideas would be welcome.

Firas · Nov 25, 2023

what Window version ?

mccnavy · Nov 25, 2023

Windows 11 Pro 23H2

OAT · Nov 25, 2023

mccnavy said:
I apologize if this issue has already been covered...I may have used wrong key words to find a solution. A few weeks ago my machine started having issues with some *.exe app installation files. Some work just fine and open as expected. Others, however, act like they are about to open (i.e. you see the "working" cursor) and then disappear...nothing happens. In order to install the app I copy as path, and enter the command in Terminal and they open. Before I go to the extreme of trying to repair Windows...it passes SFC...is there something else going on or is this something to do with 23H2 compatibility/security? Any ideas would be welcome.

Your issue is not uncommon and may happen following a restore or an update with some apps.
First, make sure all apps are up to date by going to the MS Store/Library/Update Apps.

When the app or .exe fails to open go to:
-Settings / Apps/ Installed Apps / Scroll down to the problem app
- Select Advanced options , select Terminate and then Repair.
Try the app again.

mccnavy · Nov 25, 2023

Thanks...this isn't for MS Store apps. This is for miscellaneous setup applications. For example, I went to upgrade Hasleo Backup suite this morning. I downloaded the setup program but when I went to install it, it wouldn't open...no error or anything either. However, when I went to the context menu, selected "copy as path" and entered in Terminal, it opened. It isn't applicable to all applications but definitely some. It started a few weeks ago.

mccnavy · Nov 25, 2023

I just went to the trouble of a repair by reinstall and that didn't fix the issue.

OAT · Nov 25, 2023

mccnavy said:
I just went to the trouble of a repair by reinstall and that didn't fix the issue.

Do you recall how and when that started and what did you install prior to this behavior.
Look at Control Panel/Programs and search by date to see if you can narrow it down.

I would also create a new temp user with the same rights as yours (probably Administrators) and try to run one of the .exe that do not run under your profile.