The Snipping Tool in Windows 11 is an essential utility that allows users to take screenshots and capture specific portions of the screen. However, some users have reported issues with the Snipping Tool not working properly, leading to frustration and hindered productivity. This guide will cover the most common causes of the “Snipping Tool broken” error and provide step-by-step solutions to fix it.

Common Causes of Snipping Tool Not Working in Windows 11

Before diving into the fixes, it’s essential to understand the possible reasons why the Snipping Tool might stop working:

1. Outdated Windows Version: An outdated version of Windows 11 can cause compatibility issues.
2. Corrupted System Files: Missing or corrupted system files can cause the Snipping Tool to malfunction.
3. Conflicting Third-Party Software: Other software or tools might conflict with the Snipping Tool, preventing it from running correctly.
4. Broken Snipping Tool App: A corrupted Snipping Tool app or a problem with its installation can also cause issues.
5. Windows Settings Misconfiguration: Incorrect system settings can block or disable the Snipping Tool functionality.

Fixes for the ‘Windows 11 Snipping Tool Broken’ Error

1. Check for Windows Updates

Keeping your Windows 11 system up to date is essential for ensuring compatibility and bug fixes. If your Snipping Tool isn’t working, it may be due to an outdated system version.

Step 1: Open Settings

• Press Win + I to open Settings.

Step 2: Check for Updates

• Go to “Windows Update” and click “Check for updates.”
• If updates are available, install them and restart your system.

Updating your operating system ensures that you have the latest bug fixes, which may resolve the issue.

2. Restart the Snipping Tool

Sometimes, the Snipping Tool may not respond because of a temporary glitch. Restarting the tool can often fix these minor issues.

Step 1: Open Task Manager

• Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.

Step 2: Locate Snipping Tool

• In the “Processes” tab, locate the Snipping Tool app.
• Right-click on it and select “End Task.”

Step 3: Relaunch the Snipping Tool

• Press Win + S, type “Snipping Tool,” and click on the app to restart it.
• Check if the issue persists.

3. Run Windows Troubleshooter

Windows provides a built-in troubleshooter to detect and resolve common issues with apps and system features, including the Snipping Tool.

Step 1: Open Settings

• Press Win + I to open Settings.

Step 2: Access Troubleshooters

• Go to “System” > “Troubleshoot” > “Other troubleshooters.”

Step 3: Run the Troubleshooter

• Scroll down and select “Windows Store Apps” and click “Run.”
• Follow the prompts to allow the troubleshooter to detect and fix any issues.

4. Reinstall the Snipping Tool

If the Snipping Tool app itself is broken or corrupted, reinstalling it can often fix the problem.

Step 1: Open Settings

• Press Win + I to open Settings.

Step 2: Go to Apps

• Navigate to “Apps” > “Installed apps.”

Step 3: Uninstall Snipping Tool

• Scroll down to find the “Snipping Tool” app, click the three dots next to it, and select “Uninstall.”

Step 4: Reinstall Snipping Tool

• Press Win + S, search for “Microsoft Store,” and open the store.
• In the Store, search for “Snipping Tool,” then click “Install.”

This process will give you a fresh installation of the Snipping Tool, which may fix any broken functionality.

5. Use System File Checker (SFC)

Corrupted system files can interfere with the proper operation of system apps, including the Snipping Tool. Running the System File Checker (SFC) tool can repair these files.

Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator

• Press Win + S, type “Command Prompt,” right-click it, and select “Run as administrator.”

Step 2: Run the SFC Command

• In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:
  bash

  Copy code

  sfc /scannow


Step 3: Wait for the Scan to Complete

• The SFC tool will scan your system for corrupted files and automatically repair them.
• Once the scan is complete, restart your computer and check if the Snipping Tool works.

6. Reset the Snipping Tool App

If reinstalling the Snipping Tool doesn’t work, resetting the app can sometimes solve the issue by restoring its default settings.

Step 1: Open Settings

• Press Win + I to open Settings.

Step 2: Go to Apps

• Navigate to “Apps” > “Installed apps.”

Step 3: Reset the Snipping Tool

• Find the Snipping Tool app in the list, click on the three dots next to it, and select “Advanced options.”
• Scroll down and click “Reset.”

This will reset the Snipping Tool to its default state, potentially resolving any issues it was experiencing.

7. Check for Conflicting Software

Sometimes third-party applications can interfere with the functionality of the Snipping Tool. If you recently installed new software, try disabling or uninstalling it to see if it resolves the issue.

Step 1: Open Task Manager

• Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.

Step 2: Identify Resource-Heavy Processes

• Look for any processes that are using a lot of CPU or memory resources, especially recently installed software.
• End these tasks and check if the Snipping Tool works after restarting the app.

8. Perform a System Restore

If the Snipping Tool was working correctly in the past and suddenly stopped, performing a system restore can help revert your system to a previous state when everything was functioning properly.

Step 1: Open System Restore

• Press Win + S, type “Create a restore point,” and select it.

Step 2: Start System Restore

• In the “System Properties” window, click “System Restore.”
• Choose a restore point from when the Snipping Tool was working correctly, and follow the prompts to restore your system.

9. Update Graphics Drivers

In some cases, display-related issues can prevent the Snipping Tool from functioning correctly. Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers may cause visual problems with screen captures.

Step 1: Open Device Manager

• Press Win + X and select “Device Manager.”

Step 2: Update Graphics Drivers

• Expand the “Display adapters” section, right-click your graphics driver, and select “Update driver.”
• Follow the prompts to search for and install the latest driver.

10. Check for Windows 11 Known Issues

Sometimes, bugs or known issues in Windows 11 can cause problems with the Snipping Tool. Checking Microsoft’s official support page or forums may reveal if there are any ongoing issues that can be fixed with a patch.

Preventive Tips for Future Use

1. Keep Windows 11 Updated: Regularly check for updates to keep your system free of bugs and compatibility issues.
2. Use Third-Party Screenshot Tools: If the Snipping Tool continues to malfunction, consider using third-party screenshot tools like Snagit, Lightshot, or Greenshot as alternatives.
3. Backup Important Data: Always back up your important files to prevent data loss, especially if you need to perform system recovery.

By following the steps outlined above, you can fix the “Snipping Tool broken” error in Windows 11 and restore full functionality to this essential tool. Whether the issue is caused by outdated drivers, corrupted files, or app conflicts, these solutions should help resolve the problem and get the Snipping Tool working again.