How to Recover Microsoft Edge WebView2 When It’s Not Working

If you're facing issues with Microsoft Edge WebView2, such as applications crashing or displaying error messages, recovering or reinstalling the component may resolve these problems. The process is simple and can help restore functionality. Follow the steps below to troubleshoot and ensure WebView2 operates correctly again.

What are the symptoms of WebView2 problems?

Common symptoms of WebView2 problems include applications that rely on it crashing unexpectedly or failing to launch entirely. You might also encounter error messages related to WebView2 when attempting to use features that depend on it.

Symptom: "WebView2 component is not responding."

This symptom appears when an app using WebView2 cannot access its features, leading to a frustrating user experience.

Why is WebView2 not working?

Several factors can cause WebView2 to malfunction. A corrupted installation is a common issue, which may occur during updates or software installations. Additionally, missing important updates for Windows or the Microsoft Edge browser can directly impact WebView2's performance. Conflicting software or extensions may also disrupt its functionality.

Before you start

This guide applies to Windows 10 and later versions that use Microsoft Edge WebView2. You need Administrator privileges to perform the recovery or reinstallation. Before proceeding, check for any pending Windows updates and ensure your internet connection is stable.

How can I recover or reinstall WebView2?

To recover WebView2, you can try repairing it through Windows settings. Here’s how to do that:

1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings.
2. Select "Apps" from the menu.
3. In the Apps & features section, scroll down to find "Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime" and click on it.
4. Click on the "Modify" button.
5. Follow the prompts to repair WebView2.

If repairing does not resolve the issue, you may need to uninstall and reinstall it:

1. In the same Apps & features section, click on "Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime" again.
2. Click on the "Uninstall" button.

Get-AppxPackage *Microsoft.EdgeWebView* | Remove-AppxPackage

3. Download the latest version of WebView2 from the official Microsoft website and install it.

How to verify WebView2 is working again?

To confirm that WebView2 has been successfully recovered, test an application that relies on it. For instance, open an app like Microsoft Teams or any other app that uses WebView2 features. If the app operates correctly without crashing or displaying error messages, then WebView2 is functioning as expected. To check the version of WebView2:

1. Open a command prompt.
2. Type the following command:

reg query "HKLM\Software\Microsoft\EdgeWebView" /v version

If you see a version number in the output, it indicates that WebView2 is installed and functioning.

What can I do to prevent future issues with WebView2?

To minimize future problems with WebView2, ensure that your Windows operating system and Microsoft Edge are always up to date. Regularly check for updates by navigating to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. Additionally, limit the use of browser extensions that could conflict with WebView2 functionality. It's also advisable to periodically clear your cache and app data for applications that utilize WebView2.

Conclusion

If you continue to experience issues after following these steps, consider checking for additional software conflicts or reaching out to support for the specific applications you are using. Keeping your software updated and monitoring for any unusual behavior can help maintain WebView2 performance.