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Fix 'The Application Cannot Be Started' Error When Opening a Photo
Question details
The user is unable to open a downloaded photo because the system throws an error stating that the application cannot be started and needs to be reinstalled.
- Product
- Windows Default Photo Viewer
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Downloading an image file to the Downloads folder and attempting to open it.
- Observed behavior
- Windows displays an error prompt: “The application cannot be started. Try reinstalling the application to fix the problem.” The exact application causing the failure is not specified in the message.
Before attempting system repairs, verify the image extension (e.g., .jpg, .png) and try opening a completely different photo to rule out file corruption.
Test with an Alternative Image File
Determine if the problem is caused by a single corrupted download or a system-wide issue with your default photo viewer.
Often, an incomplete download or a corrupted file can trigger application errors because the default viewer cannot read the file header properly.
Find another image online or use an existing photo from a different folder on your computer.
Double-click the new image file. If it opens successfully, your original downloaded file (IMG_3968) is likely corrupted or unsupported.
If only the original file fails, delete it and download it again from the source to ensure it transfers completely.
Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM
Use built-in Windows diagnostic tools to repair missing or corrupted system files that may be preventing your photo application from launching.
Perform a Windows In-Place Repair Installation
If standard system scans fail to resolve the application error, reinstalling Windows over itself can fix deep operating system issues without deleting your personal files.
View and Manage Images Easily with WPS Office
If your default Windows photo application is broken, you can bypass system errors by using WPS Office to insert, view, and manage your downloaded images seamlessly.
- 1. Download and install WPS Office: Get the free WPS Office suite from the official website and install it on your computer.
- 2. Open a new document: Launch WPS Writer or WPS Presentation and create a new blank file.
- 3. Insert the image: Navigate to the 'Insert' tab, click 'Picture', and select your downloaded photo to view it immediately without relying on the broken Windows app.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Windows say the application cannot be started when opening a JPG?
This error usually occurs when the default Windows photo viewer is corrupted, the system registry contains broken links, or the image file itself is incomplete or damaged.
How do I change the default app for opening photos in Windows?
Right-click the image file, select 'Open with', click 'Choose another app', select your preferred application from the list, and check the box that says 'Always use this app to open .[extension] files'.
What exactly does the SFC /scannow command do?
The System File Checker (SFC) scans all protected Windows system files. If it finds corrupted or modified files, it replaces them with the correct cached versions, which often resolves application launch errors.
Will an in-place repair installation delete my downloaded photos?
No, as long as you select the 'Keep personal files and apps' option during the Windows in-place upgrade process, your downloaded photos, documents, and installed programs will remain intact.
