While clicking on it helped some, others again got the error on their subsequent attempts at performing a shutdown. Remember, the Task Host window is not a virus, as often understood by many. With that cleared up, let’s find out how to get things up and running.

Why is the Task Host window preventing shutdown?

Here are a few reasons users might be getting the error:

Updates running in the background – In case Windows updates are stuck or are installing the background, you may have the Task Host window preventing shutdown. A program is installing in the background – Oftentimes, users don’t realize that a program’s installation is in process, which triggers the error. Services preventing the shutdown – Certain services, too, can lead to issues with shutting down the computer. Corrupt system files – If the PC has corrupt system files, you are bound to encounter several issues.

What can I do if Task Host window is preventing shutdown?

Before we go to the slightly complex solutions, here are a few quick ones that you can try:

Click the Shut down anyway button on the error prompt and check whether it appears again. For some, it was a one-off thing. Make sure there are no apps running when you shut down the computer. In case there are, terminate them and the related process via the Task Manager.

If these two quick fixes didn’t work, head to the ones listed next.

1. Run the Windows Update troubleshooter

In most cases, it was an issue with Windows Update that led to the Task Host window preventing shutdown. And the built-in troubleshooter did wonders by fixing things in no time.

2. Restart the Microsoft Store Install Service

The Task Host window preventing shutdown mistaken for a virus can also be due to issues with the Microsoft Store Install Service, and restarting it should get things up and running. SPONSORED

3. Disable startup apps and non-critical services

Once done, restart the computer, and verify whether the Task Host window is still preventing shutdown. In case it is, head to the next solution.

4. Uninstall Windows updates

Many users who reported that the Task Host window is preventing shutdown fixed things by uninstalling a few problematic updates. For most, it was the last two, but it might be different for others.

5. Turn off Fast Startup

6. Run the DISM and SFC scan

In a few cases, users got the Task Host window preventing shutdown due to corrupt system files, and running the DISM tool and the SFC scan got things working. These two shouldn’t take more than half an hour to run under ideal conditions.

7. Install the optional updates

That’s it! If nothing has worked so far, installing the optional updates should fix things in case the Task Host window is preventing shutdown. While fixing things, find out the best settings for improved Windows performance. For any queries or to share a solution that’s not listed here, drop a comment below.

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