What is this app simply named "\" in windows 11?

Question

When choosing an app to open a .png file with, the app simply named "" shows up. What is it?

Answer 1

Hello,

Here are a few possibilities for what might be happening:

1. It could be an unregistered or generic image handler. The file association information is stored in the Windows Registry. It's possible that there's a corrupted or invalid entry for the suggested app \ in the registry. By default, Windows should show "Paint" or "Photos" as options to open PNG files. If you see an empty space, it might be a third-party app whose display name is not correctly set.
2. There might be a temporary glitch or bug causing the incorrect display of the app name.
3. Sometimes, malware or unwanted software can manipulate file associations. It's crucial to ensure your system is free from any malicious programs.

You can try find this app from the following steps:

1. Check if there's any recently installed app that might handle PNGs. - Reinstall the app showing as blank, if you know which one it is.
2. Navigate to the Program Files directory on your system C:\Program Files\ or C:\Program Files (x86) Look for a folder with the name \ or any other unusual names. Open the folder and check for an executable file (e.g., .exe) that corresponds to the app. Or you may run sfc /scannow and dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth to repair corrupted system files that might be causing the issue. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you need any further assistance. ---If the Answer is helpful, please click "Accept Answer" and upvote it.