When one application fails but the rest of Windows works, investigate that application before resetting the entire computer. Windows offers repair controls for some installed apps, although the available options depend on the program.

First define what fails. Does the app refuse to start, fail only when opening one file or stop at a particular operation? Try a harmless known-good file if appropriate. Record the error and application version, and save any open work elsewhere before maintenance.

Find the supported repair route

Open Settings, Apps, Installed apps. Find the exact application, open its menu and look for Advanced options. If Repair is available, follow that process and then test the app again. Not every application has this page or button.

Traditional desktop programs may instead expose a maintenance option in Control Panel, Programs, Programs and Features. Select the program and look for Repair or Change, then read the program's own installer prompts. A Change button can lead to several actions, so do not assume every choice inside it is a harmless repair.

Use the vendor's documented process when neither route is offered. Avoid deleting hidden application folders or running generic registry cleaners to force a result.

Treat Reset as a separate decision

Microsoft's general guidance lists Reset as a possible next step when repair is unavailable or unsuccessful. Before choosing it, read the specific on-screen warning and the application's support information. Confirm that important data is exported or independently recoverable and that required sign-in details are available to you. Do not infer that an app's reset has the same scope as repairing it.

After maintenance, perform the original failing task and open representative saved work. If the app starts but its data is missing, the job is not complete. If a single document still fails while others work, focus on that document rather than repeating the repair.

Keep the outcome with the original error. A useful repair changes the failed workflow; a completed progress bar alone is insufficient evidence.

Reference: Microsoft Support.