How to fix it : Unable to restore down Programs in Windows 10

  • The Restore, Minimize, and Close buttons don’t work on Windows 10 computers.
  • The problem is due to the “Tablet Mode” feature in Windows 10, which was enabled automatically or manually on the user’s device after the upgrade process.
  • When tablet mode is enabled, all program windows will open in maximum mode and the user will not be able to close them.

 

In the realm of Windows 10 troubleshooting, a seemingly mundane issue has emerged, causing frustration for many users: the inability to restore down programs. Discover the array of fixes that can bring back the lost functionality and restore harmony to your multitasking experience.

Check for program compatibility: Some older programs may not support the restore down feature in Windows 10. Verify the program’s compatibility with the operating system and consider updating or finding an alternative program if necessary.

Troubleshooting Access Issues

If you’re having trouble restoring down programs in Windows 10, follow these steps to fix the issue:

1. Disable Full Screen Mode: Press WIN + Up Arrow to exit full screen and restore the program window.

2. Use Titlebar Menu: Click on the Restore Down button located at the top right of the program window.

3. Check for Hidden Programs: If the program window is not visible, look for the program’s icon in the taskbar and click on it to bring it back.

4. Try Keyboard Shortcuts: Press WIN + Left Arrow or WIN + Right Arrow to snap the program window to the left or right side of the screen.

5. Resize the Window: Hover over the program window’s border until the cursor changes to a double-headed arrow, then click and drag to resize the window.

6. Check for System Restore Point: If the issue persists, you can try restoring your computer to a previous state using a system restore point.

7. Perform Automatic Repair: Use the Windows 10 automatic repair feature to fix any underlying issues with your computer.

8. Upgrade Windows: Make sure you’re running the latest version of Windows 10, as older versions may have compatibility issues.

9. Contact Support: If none of the above steps resolve the issue, reach out to Microsoft support or visit their website for further assistance.

Remember to always keep your system up to date and use a reliable security solution to protect against potential security threats.

Sometimes, technology can leave us frustrated and helpless, like when we’re unable to restore down programs in Windows 10.

Adjusting App Settings and Windows Theme

To adjust app settings and Windows theme in Windows 10, follow these steps:

1. Right-click on the program window’s titlebar to access the titlebar menu.
2. From the menu, select the “Restore Down” option to resize the window.
3. If the program window is minimized, click on the program icon in the taskbar to bring it back to the screen.
4. Alternatively, you can use keyboard shortcuts like “Alt + Space” to access the titlebar menu and then press “R” to restore down the window.
5. If you’re unable to restore down programs, it could be due to a compatibility issue with Windows 10. In that case, you can try running the program in compatibility mode for Windows 7 or an earlier version.
6. Another possible culprit could be the Windows theme. Some themes may restrict the resizing options. To change the theme, go to “Settings” > “Personalization” > “Themes” and choose a different one.
7. If the issue persists, you can try updating the program to the latest version or reinstalling it.
8. Additionally, make sure that your Windows 10 is up to date by going to “Settings” > “Update & Security” > “Windows Update.”
9. For more detailed instructions and troubleshooting, you can visit websites like thegeekpage.com, AskVG, or Microsoft’s support page.

Remember to always be cautious when adjusting app settings and consider the security implications.

Resizing and Moving Program Windows

  • Use the title bar: Click and hold the title bar of the program window, then drag it to the desired location on your screen.
  • Use the taskbar: Right-click on the program’s icon on the taskbar, then select “Move.” Use the arrow keys on your keyboard to move the window, and press Enter when finished.
    Use the title bar: Click and hold the title bar of the program window, then drag it to the desired location on your screen.
Use the taskbar: Right-click on the program's icon on the taskbar, then select "Move." Use the arrow keys on your keyboard to move the window, and press Enter when finished.
  • Use keyboard shortcuts: Press the Windows key + Left/Right/Up/Down arrow keys to move the window to different edges of the screen or maximize/minimize it.
  • Use the system menu: Right-click on the program’s icon on the top-left corner of the window, then choose “Move.” Use the arrow keys to move the window, and press Enter when done.
  • Use the “Snap” feature: Drag the program window to the edge of the screen until a transparent outline appears, then release the mouse button to snap the window into place.
  • Use the window controls: Click the Restore Down button (the middle button between the Minimize and Close buttons) to resize the window, then click and drag the title bar to move it.
    Use the "Snap" feature: Drag the program window to the edge of the screen until a transparent outline appears, then release the mouse button to snap the window into place.
Use the window controls: Click the <em>Restore Down</em> button (the middle button between the <em>Minimize</em> and <em>Close</em> buttons) to resize the window, then click and drag the title bar to move it.
  • Use the “Cascade windows” option: Right-click on the taskbar, then select “Cascade windows” to automatically arrange all open program windows in a cascade pattern.
  • Use the “Show windows stacked” option: Right-click on the taskbar, then choose “Show windows stacked” to arrange all open program windows in a neat, stacked format.
  • Use the “Show windows side by side” option: Right-click on the taskbar, then click “Show windows side by side” to arrange all open program windows side by side for easy multitasking.

python
import time
import pyautogui

def maximize_window():
# Move the mouse to the top-left corner to ensure no obstruction
pyautogui.moveTo(0, 0)

# Press the Windows key to open the start menu
pyautogui.keyDown('win')

# Release the Windows key
pyautogui.keyUp('win')

# Wait for the start menu to open
time.sleep(1)

# Type "maximize" to search for the maximize option
pyautogui.typewrite('maximize')

# Wait for the search results to appear
time.sleep(1)

# Press the Enter key to select the first search result
pyautogui.press('enter')

# Wait for the window to maximize
time.sleep(1)

maximize_window()

Note that this code uses the `pyautogui` library to automate mouse movements and keyboard inputs. It simulates pressing the Windows key, typing “maximize” in the start menu search, and selecting the appropriate option to maximize the window. Please make sure you have installed the `pyautogui` library before running this code.

Keep in mind that automating user interactions in this manner can have unintended consequences and may not always work as expected. It’s important to exercise caution and use such tools responsibly.

Restarting Desktop Window Manager

To restart the Desktop Window Manager in Windows 10, follow these simple steps:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
2. In the Task Manager window, click on the Processes tab.
3. Scroll down and locate Desktop Window Manager in the list of processes.
4. Right-click on Desktop Window Manager and select End Task.
5. Confirm the action by clicking End Process in the pop-up window.
6. Once the Desktop Window Manager process is terminated, go to the File menu in the Task Manager and select Run new task.
7. In the Create new task window, type explorer.exe and click OK.
8. The Desktop Window Manager will now restart, and you should be able to restore down programs as usual.

If you are still experiencing issues with resizing windows or minimizing screens, consider checking for any recently installed updates or running a system scan for potential malware or software conflicts.

Keyboard Shortcuts for Window Resizing and Moving

  • Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl+Shift+Esc
  • Press Alt+Spacebar to open the window menu
  • Press S to select the Size option
  • Use the Arrow keys to resize the window
    Press S to select the Size option
Use the Arrow keys to resize the window
  • Press Enter to confirm the new size
  • Press Alt+Spacebar again to open the window menu
    Press Enter to confirm the new size
Press Alt+Spacebar again to open the window menu
  • Press M to select the Move option
  • Use the Arrow keys to move the window
  • Press Enter to confirm the new position
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Mark Ginter is a tech blogger with a passion for all things gadgets and gizmos. A self-proclaimed "geek", Mark has been blogging about technology for over 15 years. His blog, techquack.com, covers a wide range of topics including new product releases, industry news, and tips and tricks for getting the most out of your devices. If you're looking for someone who can keep you up-to-date with all the latest tech news and developments, then be sure to follow him over at Microsoft.