Microsoft

How to Restore Microsoft Edge WebView2 When It Stops Working

Md Sojib Mia

— 2 min read
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A close-up of the Microsoft Edge WebView2 icon displayed on a computer screen.

If Microsoft Edge WebView2 is malfunctioning, applications that depend on it may fail to run or display blank screens. Restoring WebView2 can resolve these problems, ensuring applications function as intended. This guide will help you identify symptoms, determine when a restore is needed, and provide step-by-step instructions for the restoration process.

What symptoms indicate WebView2 needs restoring?

Common symptoms that suggest WebView2 isn't working properly include:

  • Applications that use WebView2 fail to launch.
  • You see a blank screen or an error message when trying to run an app.
  • Features that rely on WebView2, like embedded web content, do not function as expected.

If you encounter any of these issues, it's a sign that WebView2 may require restoration.

Error: WebView2 Runtime not found
Symptom

This error may appear when applications attempt to access WebView2.

When should you consider restoring WebView2?

Consider restoring WebView2 in the following scenarios:

  • If there are corrupted files due to improper installation or system updates.
  • If updates to WebView2 failed to complete successfully.
  • When apps that depend on WebView2 show persistent errors or do not operate properly.

Identifying these situations will help you decide if a restoration is necessary.

Before you start

This guide applies to:

  • Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime on Windows 10 and later versions.

You will need Administrator privileges to perform these steps. It's a good idea to back up important data before making changes. First, ensure your Windows operating system is up to date.

How to restore WebView2 step by step

Follow these steps to restore Microsoft Edge WebView2:

  1. Open the Control Panel on your Windows machine.
Control Panel
  1. Click on "Programs" and then "Programs and Features."
  2. Look for "Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime" in the list of installed programs.
  3. Right-click on it and select "Uninstall."
Uninstall Microsoft Edge WebView2 Runtime
  1. Visit the Microsoft website to download the latest version of WebView2 Runtime.
  2. Run the installer and follow the prompts to reinstall WebView2.
Run the WebView2 installer

By following these steps, you will have successfully restored WebView2.

How to verify if the restoration was successful

After restoring WebView2, you can verify its functionality by:

  1. Launching an application that relies on WebView2.
  2. Checking if it displays content correctly without any blank screens or error messages.

If the application works as expected, the restoration was successful. If you still encounter issues, further troubleshooting may be necessary.

What to do if you still have issues after restoration?

If you continue to experience problems after restoring WebView2, consider these steps:

  • Check for additional Windows updates that may affect application performance.
  • Repair the application that uses WebView2 through its settings or installation options.
  • Reinstall the application that relies on WebView2 to ensure compatibility.

If issues persist, consult the support resources for the specific application or Microsoft support for further assistance.

Conclusion

If you've followed these steps and restored WebView2 but still face issues, keep exploring potential fixes or reach out to support. Regularly checking for updates can also help prevent future problems.

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