Taskbar icons and some menu items/icons disappear especially but not exclusively Microsoft apps

[The_Woodman]

I continually lose menu items and icons especially in Microsoft programs such as Word, Outlook but also icons disappear from the Task bar.  Sometimes they reappear if i move the mouse over where the menu items are located, but this does not always work.

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @The_Woodman,

Welcome to the HP Support Community! 

Thanks for reaching out about your query regarding your PC!

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.

Try these steps:

Update Graphics Drivers:

Ensure your graphics drivers are up to date. To do this, visit the HP Support website or the graphics card manufacturer's website (e.g., Intel, AMD, or NVIDIA) and download the latest drivers.

Steps to update drivers:

• Go to Device Manager: Press Windows Key + X and select Device Manager.
• Expand Display Adapters.
• Right-click your graphics card and select Update Driver.
• Follow the prompts to update the driver.

Check for Windows Updates:

• Make sure your Windows 11 operating system is up to date. Go to Settings > Windows Update and click Check for updates. Install any pending updates.

Adjust Display Settings:

• Sometimes changing the display settings can resolve graphical glitches.
  • Go to Settings > System > Display.
  • Ensure the Scale and layout settings are as recommended.
  • Check the Advanced display settings to ensure your display's refresh rate is set correctly.

Run System File Checker:

• Use the System File Checker tool to repair missing or corrupted system files. Open Command Prompt with administrative privileges and run the following command:
  • sfc /scannow
• Wait for the scan to complete and follow any prompts.

Update Microsoft Office:

• Ensure that your Microsoft Office programs are up to date.
  • Open any Office application (e.g., Word).
  • Go to File > Account.
  • Under Product Information, click Update Options and then click Update Now.

Reset the Taskbar:

• Resetting the Taskbar can sometimes fix disappearing icons.
  • Open Command Prompt with administrative privileges and run the following command to reset Explorer:taskkill /f /im explorer.exe && start explorer.exe
  • This will restart Windows Explorer and may restore the taskbar icons.

I hope this helps.

I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" Your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨

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Best regards,