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This App is Preventing Shutdown: How to Fix it in Windows
Add a new string to the Registry!
2 min. read
Updated onJanuary 9, 2024
updated onJanuary 9, 2024
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Key notes
Thisappis preventingshutdownerror message appears when you try toshut downWindows while there are still third-party apps running.
You then see a screen that lists software apps you still need to close, and you can select theCancelorShut down anywayoption. By selectingCancel, users can manually close the listedappspreventingshutdown. But why does the error appear? Let’s find out!
What does This app is preventing shutdown mean?
Thisappis preventingshutdownscreen appears whenapplicationswith unsaved data are still open in Windows.
Word processors, spreadsheets, text editors, and image editing software will usually prompt you to save unsaved documents or images when you click theXbutton to close their windows.
Then you can select to save and close or close theapplicationwithout saving anything. So you need to close allapplicationswith unsaved data open in them beforeshutting down Windows.
How do I fix the This app is preventing shutdown error?
Modify the Registry
The newAutoEndTasksstring value ensures all software closes automatically when you clickShut down. Thus, you’ll no longer need to closeprogramswith unsaved data open in them beforeshutting down.
Also, when you find thatThis app is preventing shutdownhas no name, the Registry method works well since the changes are applied across the PC.
Remember, however, that theThisappis preventingshutdownwarning message can also be a handy reminder that you have forgotten to save something. Even more,solving the issue of an app preventing shutdown in Windowsis also possible thanks to the tips we’ve detailed in this guide.
Before you leave, do check some quick tips todecrease the boot time in Windows, and have the PC restart, shut down, and turn on quicker.
For any queries or to share other solutions with us, drop a comment below.
More about the topics:Shutdown issues,windows 10
Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
Matthew is a freelancer who has produced a variety of articles on various topics related to technology. His main focus is the Windows OS and all the things surrounding it.
He is passionate about the tech world, always staying up-to-date with the latest and greatest. With an analytical view, he likes problem-solving, focusing on errors and their causes.
In his free time, he likes to read and write about history and tries to always develop new skills.
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Matthew Adams
Windows Hardware Expert
He is passionate about everything surrounding Microsoft’s OS, focusing on troubleshooting guides & tips for everyday problems.
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