After opening an app from taskbar, it automatically closes.

TJB · 06 Jan 2020

I have a 10 yr old Dell 540 Desktop 64 bit that was updated from Windows 7 to Windows 10 ten years ago. I keep it updated (currently at release 1909...latest) I have run sfc scan, Dism, Defender offline scan, defender full and quick scans, along with Malware bytes scan, with no problems. I've poured over taskbar and mouse settings! I've contacted MS Chat, with (0) ZERO results or help, except for a case number. Here's my strange problem. I can open Windows Edge, then open another taskbar app or even a third from the taskbar . After having two or three apps open from the taskbar and showing open on the taskbar as open, if I go to any of the 3 open, as soon as I move the pointer OFF the taskbar, that app closes on my screen. The only way I can get to any of the open apps from the taskbar is to hold down left mouse button, or both mouse buttons and move it up to the open window. If I move it out of that window that app closes on my screen and I have to go to the taskbar and repeat. The only other way to navigate is to use Alt+ab to get to open apps, I cannot do it with the mouse pointer. I have reloaded Windows 10 WITH deleting all apps etc. Did not help... On a scale of 1-10 on the PC as A tech, I'm not a Geek or novice, but a solid 7.5. This just happened out of the blue spontaneously for no apparent reason. I'm at a point even some remote help would be welcomed. I have fixed EVERY problem I've ever had on this PC since I've had it, but this one's got me!!! I've also done a check disk...all ok. Everything works great, no slowdown or other problems of any kind. It's got ME!!!!! MS was pst because I wouldn't send them a screenshot....of what?...a closed window?????? Any help of any kind appreciated, even remote if necessary.

dalchina · 07 Jan 2020

Hi, have you tried to eliminate the mouse itself?

I.e. without using a mouse at all- just the keyboard? tab key, Return - for example see use the mouse intially to get to the point where you launch programs, then use keyboard naviagation with the mouse disconnected.

What sort of mouse do you have? USB wired/ wireless... Have you tried swapping it?

I have reloaded Windows 10 WITH deleting all apps etc.

Could you clarify- was this a clean install, deleting all pre-existing Windows partitions?

After having two or three apps open from the taskbar and showing open on the taskbar as open,

You should be able to capture a screenshot of that-
8 ways you can take screenshots in Windows 10 - CNET
- or even a camera.

After having two or three apps open from the taskbar

- how exactly are you launching them? From pinned shortcuts? What happens if you launch them from, say, the Start Menu or the search bar?

I.e. is your problem occurring only when you use a pinned shortcut?

I wouldn't send them a screenshot

- a video would be better- plenty of capture utilities around.

that was updated from Windows 7 to Windows 10 ten years ago

I must congratulate you on being perhaps the earliest Insider known...