How To Fix Snipping Tool Not Working In Windows 11

Fix “Snipping Tool Not Working”

Snipping Tool is a handy built-in utility in Windows that allows users to capture screenshots of their screens, whether it’s a full screen, a specific window, or a custom-selected area. It’s a useful tool for various purposes, such as taking screenshots for documentation, troubleshooting, or sharing information. However, like any other software, the Snipping Tool may encounter issues, and users of Windows 11 have reported instances where the Snipping Tool not working or fails to function correctly. In this article, we will explore common reasons for Snipping Tool not working issues in Windows 11 and provide solutions to fix them.

The built-in snipping utility isn’t functioning properly for a lot of people, which is very annoying. You’ve come to the right place if you’re experiencing issues like this and need assistance troubleshooting. You will discover various fixes for the Windows 11 snipping tool not working problem here.

Why is the Snipping Tool Not Working in Windows 11

Before we delve into the solutions, it’s essential to understand the possible reasons behind the Snipping Tool not working in Windows 11. Several factors can contribute to this problem, including:

Software Updates: Windows 11 receives periodic updates that can sometimes affect the performance of built-in utilities like Snipping Tool. Compatibility issues with the latest updates may lead to the Snipping Tool not working.

Corrupted System Files: Corrupted or missing system files can cause various software issues, including Snipping Tool malfunction. If crucial files required for the Snipping Tool are damaged, the Snipping Tool not working correctly.

Third-Party Software Conflicts: Conflicts with third-party software or applications can hinder Snipping Tool’s functionality. Software that alters system settings or controls screen capturing may interfere with the Snipping Tool.

Permissions and User Account Control (UAC) Settings: Insufficient permissions or misconfigured User Account Control settings can restrict Snipping Tool’s ability to function correctly.

Antivirus or Security Software: Overly aggressive antivirus or security software can sometimes block Snipping Tool from operating, considering it a potential threat.

Solutions to Fix Snipping Tool Not Working in Windows 11

Now that we understand the potential causes of Snipping Tool not working issues in Windows 11, let’s explore solutions to address these problems:

1. Check for Windows Updates

Outdated Windows 11 installations can lead to Snipping Tool not working issues. To ensure your system is up to date:

Press Win + I to open the Windows Settings.
Click on Update & Security.
In the Update & Security window, click on Windows Update in the left-hand menu.
Click on Check for updates and let Windows search for and install any available updates.
After the updates are installed, restart your computer and check if the brightness control function keys are functioning correctly.

brightness control function key not working

2. Reset or Repair the Snipping Tool

It is inevitable that occasionally a bug will make one of your apps or system files stop working. But now that Windows 11 is out, fixing apps is simpler than ever. Without using any additional third-party software, you can easily debug and fix the Snipping Tool not working issue by following these simple steps:

Open Windows Search and type Snipping Tool.
Right-click on the Snipping Tool app and select “App Settings.”

Scroll down to Reset and click on the Repair option.

The program will be fixed by the system.
Try resetting the app by clicking on Reset if repairing it does not fix the problem. However, keep in mind that you will lose all of your app data if you do this.

3. Perform a Clean Boot

Interference from other apps or third-party programs, notably your antivirus software, is another reason why the Snipping Tool not working. You may quickly solve this problem and get the screenshot tool running by performing a clean boot. Disabling every program and service from a third party is necessary for a clean boot. Given this:

Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
Type “msconfig” and press Enter to open the System Configuration.
In the System Configuration window, go to the “Services” tab.
Check the box that says “Hide all Microsoft services.“
Click the “Disable all” button.

Next, go to the “Startup” tab and click on “Open Task Manager.“
In the Task Manager window, disable all the startup programs by right-clicking on each entry and selecting “Disable.”

Close the Task Manager and go back to the System Configuration window.
Click “OK” and then restart your computer.

4. Reinstall Snipping Tool

If the Snipping Tool’s installation is flawed, Windows 11 might not be able to use it. This corruption might have happened as a result of a bug during a Windows 11 upgrade or a fresh OS installation. In this situation, reinstalling the Snipping Tool application can fix the Snipping Tool not working issue.

Open Windows Search and type Snipping Tool.
Right-click on the Snipping Tool app and select “App Settings.”

Scroll down and click on the Uninstall option.

5. Run System File Checker (SFC)

The System File Checker utility can scan and repair corrupted system files that may be causing the Snipping Tool not working problem. Here’s how to use it:

Search for Command Prompt, right-click the top result, and select the Run as administrator option.
Type the following commands to perform a quick fix on your PC: sfc /scannow
Be patient and wait till the scanning is complete.

6. Enable the “Automatically Copy Changes”

When you copy and paste something onto your computer, the clipboard immediately saves any modifications. Enable the “Automatically Copy Changes” feature of the Snipping Tool software if you can open it but no photos are being copied and pasted.

Launch the “Snipping Tool” as a Run as administrator.
To access the “See more” menu, click the three-dot option, and then select “Settings.“

Make sure the toggle for “Automatically copy changes” is on. The “Auto copy to clipboard” option should always be kept on, even if you decide to disable the other toggles in the menu.

Since these screen captures are automatically stored in the Clipboard, capturing a new screenshot would replace the previous one. To save numerous screenshots, you must turn on a different option called “Multiple windows”.

7. Turn on Background App Permissions

Does your Snipping Tool software have the authorization necessary to run in the background and snap photos? In some circumstances, it needs to be done manually in order for the Snipping Tool object memory to record the image.

Open Settings by pressing Windows + I together.
Go to Apps -> Installed Apps.
Search for “Snipping Tool” and select “Advanced Settings” by clicking on three verticle dots in front of it. This will take you to the “Apps & features” section of the Snipping Tool.

Ensure the app permissions for the pictures are turned on. Further, enable background app permissions as “Power optimized” or “Always.“

8. Disable Automatic Time

You can have an incorrect date/time issue involving the app’s digital certificates if your Snipping Tool not working properly in Windows 11 and won’t take screenshots. Once the problem has been fixed, you must temporarily switch your date and time from automatic to manual.

Open Settings by pressing Windows + I together.
Go to Time & Language -> Date & Time.
Do the toggle off for “Set time automatically.“
Click on the “Change” from the “Set the date and time manually” option.

Check whether the Snipping Tool is working. If it is doing fine, switch back to automatic timing in “Set time automatically.” The correct date will show on your computer.

9. Use Registry Editor

On the Windows 11 operating system, the Snipping Tool is installed and enabled by default, but the Software Restriction Policy bans some users from using it or, in some cases, limits their ability to access the app in File Explorer. Here are some last-ditch options if you’re also having trouble and are utterly unsure of what to do next:

By hitting Win + R on your keyboard, the Run dialog box will be displayed.
Hit enter after typing “Regedit” into the search box.
A “User Account Control popup” will pop up and ask you if you want to proceed and modify your device. The Registry Editor will appear when you choose Yes.
Follow the path in the Registry Editor: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft.
Track down the TabletPC key. If it isn’t already there, right-click Microsoft, choose New > Key, and give the key the name TabletPC.

Right-click on the empty space of the right panel select New > DWORD (32-bit) and rename the newly formed key to DisableSnippingTool.

DisableSnippingTool should be double-clicked, and the Value data should be set to 0 with the Hexadecimal option also selected.

Conclusion

Snipping Tool is a valuable tool for capturing screenshots and images in Windows 11, but like any software, it can encounter Snipping Tool not working issues. If you find that the Snipping Tool is not working as expected, it’s essential to diagnose and resolve the Snipping Tool not working problem promptly. By following the solutions outlined in this article, you can troubleshoot common Snipping Tool not working issues in Windows 11 and enjoy its full functionality once again. Remember to keep your system updated and maintain a balance between security settings and utility access to ensure a smooth computing experience.