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Today, in this article we will show you how to Fix “Cortana Not Working” issue on Windows 11/10. The virtual assistant from Microsoft called Cortana is preinstalled in Windows. Users of Cortana have occasionally reported problems with Cortana not responding to their “Hey Cortana” commands, Cortana disappearing from the taskbar, and Cortana’s reminders malfunctioning.
If Cortana stops operating for any reason, there are a few remedies you can attempt. Windows 11 has various features that might make computing more convenient for you on a daily basis. One such tool that functions as a personal assistant and is part of the Windows operating system is Cortana.
It uses your voice to aid you in managing tasks in a manner similar to an assistant. The Windows 11 operating system includes the Cortana program by default. If Cortana isn’t functioning properly in Windows 11 for whatever reason, this article will show you how to fix it.You can also go to the official Microsoft support site for more information about this issue.
Ways to Fix “Cortana Not Working” issue on Windows 11/10
Allow Cortana to Communicate Through Windows Firewall
Hey Cortana not working in Windows 11 will occur if Cortana is not allowed to pass through the Windows Firewall. You should check the Firewall settings and let it via Firewall to resolve the issue.
Step 1: Press Win + S, type allow an app through Windows firewall, and click the result.
Step 2: In the pop-up window, click Change settings, and check the box of Cortana from the Allowed apps and features section.
Step 3: Click OK to save the change.
Change Your Region
Step 1: Launch Windows 11 Settings via the Win + I keys.
Step 2: Go to the Time & language section and click Language & region.
Step 3: Under the Region section, change Country or region to United States.
Update Windows
Sometimes, the patches are included in fresh Windows updates. Microsoft often delivers bug fixes and upgrades to address any identified concerns. To test if the problem with Cortana not responding to “Hey Cortana” is fixed, you can attempt to update Windows 11 to the most recent version here.
Step 1: Go to Windows 11 Settings by pressing Win + I.
Step 2: Navigate to Windows Update and click Check for updates.
Step 3: If some available updates are checked, download and install them on your PC.
Turn on Microphone and Voice Activation Permissions
If Cortana isn’t functioning on Windows 11, double-check that the microphone and voice permissions are turned on. Watch the magicians below right now.
Microphone Activation
Step 1: Launch Cortana and click the three-dot menu to choose Settings.
Step 2: Click Microphone > Microphone Permissions.
Step 3: Turn on the setting for Let apps access your microphone.
Step 4: Make sure the toggle of Cortana is turned on.
Voice Activation
Step 1: Open Cortana settings.
Step 2: Click Voice activation permissions and allow apps to use voice activation.
Step 3: Enable the option for Let Cortana respond to ‘Cortana’ keyword. Also, you can configure to use Cortana even when your device is locked.