Quick Fixes for Everyday IT Problems: Fast Solutions for Common App Crashes

Few things kill productivity faster than when a trusted app freezes or crashes mid-task. The good news?

Most app crashes can be fixed quickly without calling IT, if you know what to try. These are the quick fixes for common app crashes we guide our Cloudigan clients through all the time.

Step 1: Force quit and restart the app

When a program freezes, the temptation is to wait… and wait. But sometimes the app won’t recover on its own.

Why it works: Completely closing the app clears temporary glitches or memory loops.

How to do it:

• On Windows, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager, select the app, and choose End task.

• On Mac, use Command + Option + Escape, select the app, and click Force quit.

Step 2: Restart your computer

Yes, the classic “turn it off and on again” still rules.

Why: Restarting clears stuck processes or cached data that may cause apps to keep crashing.

Tip: Save your work often. A restart can be the hero that fixes the problem... or the villain that erases your unsaved progress.

Step 3: Check for software updates

One of the most common reasons apps keep crashing is outdated software, especially after a system update.

How to do it:

• In Outlook or Teams, use the Check for updates option in settings.

• In Chrome, go to Settings > About Chrome.

• For other apps, check the app store or the official site.

Example: An outdated version of QuickBooks may conflict with the latest Windows update, leading to constant crashes.

Step 4: Clear cache or temporary files

Some apps pile up junk data that impacts performance.

Practical examples:

• Teams: clearing cache fixes login problems and frozen screens.

• Chrome: clearing cache and cookies often resolves pages that won’t load or tabs that crash.

• Outlook: deleting corrupted data files can stop crashes when opening emails.

How to do it: Each app has its own method, usually in Settings or by deleting temporary folders in your system.

Step 5: Reinstall the app (if all else fails)

When nothing else works, reinstalling may be the ultimate solution.

Why it works: It removes corrupted files, broken settings, or incomplete installations that make apps keep crashing.

Tip: Have your login info, backups, or saved settings ready before reinstalling. Nobody wants to get locked out of their own app.

Final thoughts: When an app keeps crashing, it’s time to call backup

Most issues can be solved with these steps. But if the same program keeps shutting down for no reason, it could be a sign of something bigger:

• Software conflicts between apps.

• Storage problems on your drive.

• Malware interfering with your work.

In those cases, it’s best not to waste more time. Cloudigan can help you stay ahead of app headaches with reliable remote support.

In summary:

If you’re asking “Why does my app keep closing?”, try these five steps: force quit and restart the app, restart your computer, update software, clear cache, and reinstall. Most users can fix crashing programs with these quick actions.

And if your apps still keep failing, you know what to do: stop losing time. Contact Cloudigan and let your calm, reliable IT partner handle the rest.