Updating applications on Windows
Updating applications on Windows
I just needed to restart my PC because it was creating issues. My SSD is on the C drive and a big hard drive holds my apps and files. After resetting, the programs still show up in the list but aren’t recognized by Windows search. Do you have any way to reconnect everything so I don’t have to reinstall?
I just reinstalled everything following a fresh setup. Be sure to retain all the games and files.
Most applications on your PC (typically games and basic software, not Office or Photoshop, etc.) don’t require installation. They remain available but aren’t listed in the Programs & Features panel, the Start menu, or recognized as file types. You can still access them by using the Default programs list, right-clicking a file with the incorrect program, or selecting "Open With" and choosing your preferred application. To place them on the Start menu, locate the executable, right-click it, and create a shortcut in the Start menu folder. There are two main folders:
- C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs — shows items across all accounts
- C:\Users\<YourName>\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs — shows items for your account only
If you prefer, you can reinstall the software. For games, remember that if you skip installation, you might need to manually add a DirectX runtime so they function properly (https://www.microsoft.com/en-ca/download...aspx?id=35). Regarding Steam games, after installation—provided they’re placed correctly in the same location or Steam folders are set—they’ll be detected, validated, and downloaded automatically from the server.