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If WhatsApp Desktop is malfunctioning, try Windows’ Repair option before Reset, when those controls are available. Microsoft says Repair addresses app problems without losing data; Reset returns the app to its default state and may remove app data. WhatsApp does not document exactly what Windows Reset does to its local app state or linked-device login, so check that you can use your phone for chat backup and restore before resetting or reinstalling.

Repair WhatsApp before resetting it

Windows may offer app-level repair controls for WhatsApp. Their availability depends on the app and Windows version; Microsoft notes that not every app has Advanced options or Repair. If the controls are missing, that does not mean you overlooked a hidden setting.

Windows 11

  1. Open Start > Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
  2. Find WhatsApp and open its More options menu.
  3. Select Advanced options, if shown.
  4. Select Repair, if available.
  5. Reopen WhatsApp and check whether the problem is resolved.

Microsoft describes Repair as a way to address app issues without losing data. If Repair is unavailable or does not help, you can return to Advanced options and consider Reset.

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Windows 10

  1. Open Start > Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
  2. Select WhatsApp, then choose Advanced options if present.
  3. Select Repair, if available, then reopen WhatsApp and test it.
  4. If Repair is missing or unsuccessful, return to Advanced options and consider Reset.

Microsoft says Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025. Windows 10 remains usable, but it no longer receives free Windows Update software updates, technical assistance, or security fixes from Microsoft.

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What Windows Reset may change—and what is not known

Microsoft says Reset returns an app to its default state and may remove app data. That makes it a more disruptive choice than Repair. The official guidance does not specify whether resetting WhatsApp removes its linked-device cache, signs it out, or changes which messages appear after you link it again.

WhatsApp says it is not possible to back up or restore chat history on linked devices such as WhatsApp for Windows. Chat backup and restore must be handled on the phone, and WhatsApp says it does not store chat history on its servers. Before resetting or reinstalling, make sure you can use your phone for any backup or restore you need. Do not rely on a Windows reset to recover chat history from the linked PC.

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Try WhatsApp’s troubleshooting steps for connection problems

For connection trouble, WhatsApp recommends checking the computer’s internet connection first; look for a “Computer not connected” banner in the app. If the computer is online, follow this sequence:

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  1. Quit and restart WhatsApp Desktop.
  2. Sign out of WhatsApp Desktop and sign back in.
  3. Check that you are using the most up-to-date WhatsApp version.
  4. Restart the computer.
  5. Try a different network or a mobile hotspot.
  6. If the issue remains, uninstall WhatsApp and download it again.

These are WhatsApp’s recommendations for connection issues; they do not establish that every crash or failure to launch has a connection-related cause.

Reinstall from an official WhatsApp source

If Repair is unavailable or does not resolve the issue, and WhatsApp’s troubleshooting steps have not helped, reinstall the app using an official download route. WhatsApp’s Windows download page directs users to the Microsoft Store; its desktop overview also lists WhatsApp’s own download page and the Microsoft Store. Avoid third-party app-download sites.

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Check requirements if the issue involves calls

WhatsApp’s Windows download page lists Windows 10 64-bit, version 1903 or later, as a system requirement. Its desktop overview says voice and video calls need an active internet connection and audio output; calls also need a microphone, and video calls need a camera. WhatsApp must have permission to use the microphone and, for video calls, the camera. These call-related checks are not requirements for Windows’ Repair or Reset menu.

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Official sources

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