Restore Snipping Tool on Windows: Easy Repair Methods
Overview
If the Snipping Tool is missing or not working, these steps restore functionality safely and quickly. Follow them in order; stop when the tool works.
1. Restart and check updates
- Restart: Reboot Windows.
- Windows Update: Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates — install and reboot.
2. Run the Snipping Tool troubleshooter (Quick)
- Open Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Run Windows Store Apps and Incoming Connections if present.
3. Repair or reset the app
- Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
- Find Snipping Tool, click the three dots > Advanced options.
- Click Repair. Test. If still broken, click Reset (this may clear settings).
4. Reinstall via Microsoft Store
- Open Microsoft Store, search Snipping Tool.
- Install or Update. If it says “Installed,” uninstall then reinstall.
5. Re-register the app (PowerShell)
- Open Start, type PowerShell, right-click Windows PowerShell (Admin).
- Run:
powershell
Get-AppxPackage Microsoft.ScreenSketch | Remove-AppxPackage Get-AppxPackage -AllUsers Microsoft.ScreenSketch | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register “\(</span><span class="token" style="color: rgb(57, 58, 52);">(</span><span class="token" style="color: rgb(54, 172, 170);">\).InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml”}
- Reboot.
6. Check related services and defaults
- Ensure Windows Explorer is running; restart it via Task Manager.
- Default screenshot shortcuts: Settings > Accessibility or Keyboard > verify PrtScn behavior.
7. Use System File Checker & DISM
- Open Command Prompt as admin.
- Run:
cmd
sfc /scannow DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
- Reboot and test.
8. Create a new user profile (if app works for others)
- Settings > Accounts > Family & other users > Add account.
- Test Snipping Tool in the new account — if it works, migrate files to the new profile.
9. Temporary alternatives
- Press Win+Shift+S for Snip & Sketch overlay.
- Use third-party tools: Greenshot, ShareX.
When to seek more help
- Persistent failure after these steps: consider rolling back a recent system update, restore from a System Restore point, or contact Microsoft Support.
Quick checklist: Restart → Update → Repair/Reset → Reinstall → Re-register → SFC/DISM → Test in new user.
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