Windows 10: problem with lost icons and start button

I have been using windows 10 for a few months now and this problem has happened twice now. The computer starts running very slowly and when I click on the start button = nothing happens so there is no way to shut the machine down except to shut it off. Also, I have lost the icons on the bottom of the screen. Any suggestions would be appreciated. I tried to reload 10 but it got hung up and said it was checking for updates for an hour so I stopped the download.

:)

 

Problem with Start Button and search button

Hi Roza,

From the screen short I understand that you are able to access the Start button as the click on it works.

Do let us know what is the exact issue you are facing in accessing the Start button and Search bar?

If you are unable to access the Start button, this seems that the System files might got corrupted.

I recommend you to refer to the Microsoft Help article below that suggests to check for the updates and run the troubleshooter and check if it helps.

Troubleshoot problems opening the Start menu or Cortana

Hope it helps. Get back to us with an updated status of accessing the Start menu with brief description for further assistance.

Thank you.

 

Problem with Start Button and search button

Thanks for your help. I think my computer has a virus, because I am not able to reset my PC.

 

Hello and welcome to TenForums *Smile

I have also experienced this behaviour and it usually happens just after a windows cumulative update or when a W10 app like Mail and Calendar has just been updated.

I think it has something to do with the Windows Shell Experience Host. One method you can try is to locate the Windows Explorer process in Task Manager, select it and click on the Restart button at the bottom. Wait for a while and you should see the icons start to appear again. This can take a minute or two so be patient. If it does not help a restart usually does the trick.

 

Thanks, I will try it next time. Turned the computer on this afternoon and everything is back to normal. Can't figure why but I am not going to complain.