Are you facing the “Task Host Window is preventing shutdown” error on your Windows PC? This guide provides solutions to fix the issue on Windows.
This error often occurs when you attempt to shut down your computer and get stuck on a blue screen. It might display a message like:
“To go back and save your work, click Cancel and finish what you need to.”
The problem is, the app causing the error isn’t specified, leaving you unable to address it directly. Below, we have provided detailed and easy-to-follow solutions to fix the issue on Windows 10 or Windows 11.
How to Fix “Task Host Window is Preventing Shutdown”
Fix 1: Scan for Malware and Remove Them
Malware can sometimes cause shutdown errors. Follow these steps to scan and remove malicious software:
- Visit Malwarebytes and select “Free download”.
- Install Malwarebytes and launch the application.
- Select “Scan” and wait for the scan to complete.
- Quarantine or remove any malware detected.
- Attempt to shut down your PC again.
Editor’s Note: This fix resolved my issue when I unknowingly installed malware that blocked my PC from shutting down.
Fix 2: Turn Off Fast Startup
Fast startup can sometimes interfere with your PC’s shutdown process. Here’s how to disable it:
- Open Windows Search, type “Control Panel”, and open it.
- Navigate to System and Security > Power Options > Choose what the power buttons do.
- Click “Change settings that are currently unavailable”.
- Uncheck the box for “Turn on fast startup”.
- Click “Save changes”.
- Try shutting down your PC again.
Fix 3: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
The Windows Update troubleshooter can identify and resolve underlying issues causing the shutdown error. Follow these steps:
- Search for “Troubleshoot settings” using Windows Search and open it.
- Select “Other troubleshooters”.
- Run the “Windows Update troubleshooter”.
- When prompted, select “I can’t download, install, or uninstall an update”.
- Select “Yes” to allow the automated diagnostic to run.
Fix 4: Update Windows to the Latest Version
Outdated Windows versions can lead to compatibility issues and shutdown errors. Here’s how to ensure your system is up-to-date:
- Open Windows Search and type “Check for updates”.
- Select “Check for updates”.
- If updates are available, click “Download & Install”.
- Once the updates are installed, try shutting down your PC again.
Fix 5: Select “Shut Down Anyway”
If none of the above fixes work, you can force your PC to shut down:
- Click the Windows icon and select the power icon.
- Choose “Shut down”.
- When the error message appears, select “Shut down anyway”.
The “Task Host Window is usually caused by minor issues like malware, fast startup settings, or outdated software. By following the fixes outlined in this guide, you should be able to resolve the error and shut down your PC smoothly. If the issue persists, consider reaching out to Microsoft Support for further assistance.
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