How do you fix an app that is blocking me from using other apps and from being uninstalled

Kaye King 0 Reputation points
2026-09-25T19:58:24.04+00:00

A snipping tool is preventing me from using other apps on my computer. A tool bar stays open at the top and when I click the X it closes for a moment and allows me to click on another app but then immediately opens and locks up the other apps again.

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Apps
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  1. Paulo GM 73,005 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2026-09-25T20:43:07.61+00:00

    Hi,

    It sounds like a physical key related to launching the app toolbar is being pressed repeatedly preventing you from accessing other apps. If you can open Settings (press Win+I), go to Bluetooth & devices > Keyboard and toggle off Use the Print screen key to open screen capture then see if it resolves the issue.

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  2. Kaye King 0 Reputation points
    2026-09-25T19:59:58.3233333+00:00

    I have tried using the Task Manager but it does not remove the tool or app

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  3. AI answer

    2026-09-25T19:58:38.7+00:00

    Try these steps in order:

    1. Close the stuck app with Task Manager
      • Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open Task Manager.
      • Select the app that is blocking the screen.
      • Select End task.
      • This can force the app to close so other apps become usable again.
      • Warning: unsaved data in that app can be lost.
    2. Restart the PC
      • Go to Start > Power > Restart.
      • This can clear a temporary app hang.
    3. Repair Snipping Tool
      • Go to Start > Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
      • Find Snipping Tool.
      • Select it, then open Advanced options.
      • Select Repair.
      • Test whether the toolbar still reopens and blocks other apps.
    4. Reset Snipping Tool if Repair does not help
      • In the same Advanced options page, select Reset.
      • This can fix deeper app corruption.
      • Warning: reset may remove the app’s data.
    5. Uninstall from Settings
      • Go to Start > Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
      • Select Snipping Tool > Uninstall.
      • Follow the on-screen steps.
    6. If uninstall is blocked, run the Program Install and Uninstall troubleshooter
      • Download the troubleshooter and select Run or Open.
      • It can fix problems that prevent programs from being installed, uninstalled, or updated, including corrupted registry keys and incomplete uninstall data.

    If the app was installed from Microsoft Store, use the Microsoft Store app troubleshooting guidance instead of the desktop program troubleshooter.

    References:

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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