4 Ways to Fix WhatsApp for PC Not Working on Windows 11

Quick Tips
  • If WhatsApp isn’t functioning properly on Windows, ensure you update the app and verify your internet connection.
  • A lack of necessary permissions might prevent some WhatsApp features from working.
  • You can try repairing or resetting WhatsApp on Windows if nothing else works.

Fix 1: Allow WhatsApp to Run in the Background

If WhatsApp does not have the necessary permissions to run in the background, it won’t send any notifications or sync your messages till you open the app. To ensure WhatsApp works properly, allow it to run in the background on Windows.

Step 1: Click the search icon on the taskbar, type WhatsApp, and select App settings.

Open WhatsApp Settings on Windows

Step 2: Under Background apps permissions, use the drop-down menu to select Always.

Allow WhatsApp to Run in Background on Windows 11

Fix 2: Check App Permissions

Like any other app, WhatsApp requires a few permissions to work seamlessly. For instance, if you previously denied WhatsApp access to your PC’s camera or microphone, you may face difficulty connecting calls or sending voice messages. Here’s what you can do to fix it.

Step 1: Click the search icon on the taskbar, type WhatsApp, and select App settings.

Step 2: Enable all the toggles under App permissions.

Allow WhatsApp Permissions on Windows 11

Restart the app to check if the issue persists.

Fix 3: Sign Out and Sign In

If your WhatsApp issues are only caused by a temporary glitch, try signing out and signing back in. Here’s how.

Step 1: Open WhatsApp on your PC and click the gear-shaped icon on the left.

Open WhatsApp for Windows Settings

Step 2: Click Log Out.

Log Out of WhatsApp for Windows 11

Step 3: Open WhatsApp on your iPhone or Android. Tap the three-dot menu icon at the top right corner and select Linked devices from the menu.

Step 4: Tap on Link a Device and use your phone’s camera to scan the QR code on your PC.

Fix 4: Repair or Reset the App

If the above solutions do not work, try using the built-in app repair feature in Windows 11 to fix WhatsApp.

Step 1: Press the Windows key + S to open the search menu. Type WhatsApp in the search box and select App settings.

Step 2: Scroll to the Reset section and click the Repair button.

Repair WhatsApp on Windows 11

If the issue exists after repairing the app, try resetting it from the same menu. Note that resetting the app will remove all your messages and login data, making it as good as reinstalling the app.

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Last updated on 22 April, 2024

2 Comments

  1. I tried downloading WhatsApp web on my windows 11 computer. I could not complete the installation without a QR code. It asked me what phone to use with my account, I have a very basic old HTC mobile for phone calls and texts only, I have specified to my provider no internet access. I do not want, or need an iPhone or other smart phone I use an iPad which is sufficient for my needs. My family all use WhatsApp so I thought I could just download it. Have I misunderstood what is on offer? I dislike the current trend of taking away choices in technology and thus disadvantaging older people like me.

    1. You have to install WhatsApp on your Android or IOS phone. Then sign up with your phone number. After that, you can click on 3 dots and click to linked devices. Then click to link a device and make sure that your phone’s camera sees the QR code on your PC.

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