How to Fix Opera GX When It's Not Opening or Crashing

Removing the Opera GX Preferences file can fix the problem

Browsers » Opera

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by Milan Stanojevic 

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opgx-w10 Opera GX not opening
True gamers use the best gaming browser: Opera GXOpera GX is a special version of the famous Opera browser that is built specifically to fulfill gamer's needs. Packed with unique features, Opera GX will help you get the most out of gaming and browsing everyday:
  • CPU, RAM and Network limiter with hot tab killer
  • Integrated with Twitch, Discord, Instagram, Twitter and Messengers directly
  • Built-in sound controls and custom music
  • Custom color themes by Razer Chroma and force dark pages
  • Free VPN and Ad blocker
  • Download Opera GX
Having problems with your current version of Opera One? Make sure your browser is up-to-date.Although many possible reasons lead to issues with your Opera One Browser, one of the fastest solutions is reinstalling your browser first (make sure you download the version from only verified sources).Here's what Opera One can do:
  • Optimize resource usage: Opera One uses your Ram more efficiently than other browsers
  • Enhanced privacy: integrated and unlimited VPN
  • No ads or tracking with its built-in features
  • Gaming pleasant: Opera GX is the first browser created specifically for gamers
  • ⇒ Get Opera One

Opera GX not opening can be a major problem since it will prevent you from browsing the web, but there are a few ways to fix this problem.

Why can’t I open Opera GX?

This problem occurs due to issues with Opera’s installation or due to file corruption. Being a part of the Microsoft Family can also cause this problem.

What can I do if Opera GX is not opening?

Before we start, try using the Windows + D shortcut to minimize and restore all open Windows. Also, try snapping one app to the left half of the display, and select Opera in the other half.

1. Remove Opera GX files

  1. Press Windows key + R and type %appdata%
    appdata run dialog
  2. Navigate to the following path: Opera SoftwareOpera GX Stable
  3. Locate the Preferences file and remove it.
    preferences file opera gx folder
  4. Optional: If this doesn’t work, you can try renaming the Opera GX Stable folder or delete all files from it. Some are suggesting to do the same for Opera GX Stable folder at the following location as well: C:UsersyourusernameAppDataLocalOpera Software

Keep in mind that this solution might remove your settings, bookmarks and history, so you might want to back it up beforehand.

2. Run the installer from the installation directory

  1. Press the Windows key + R then enter the following location and click OK: %localappdata%Programs
  2. Navigate to the Opera GX directory.
  3. Go to the directory that represents the latest version.
  4. Run the installer.exe file.
  5. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the process.

After the installer is completed, your browser should be updated and working again. Alternatively, you can download the setup file and run it again.

3. Leave the Microsoft family

  1. Navigate to the Microsoft Family Safety page.
  2. If you’re the organizer of the Microsoft family, remove all members by clicking on the three-dot menu next to their name and selecting Remove from family group.remove-member Opera GX not opening
  3. Now click on the three-dot menu next to your card and choose Leave family group.leave-family Opera GX not opening
  4. After doing that, check if the problem is gone.

Alternatively, you can switch to a local account and Microsoft family policies won’t apply to you anymore.

4. Reinstall Opera GX

  1. Press the Windows key + R. Now enter the following location and click OK: "%LOCALAPPDATA%ProgramsOpera GXlauncher.exe" -uninstall
  2. Select Uninstall one the OperaGX uninstaller window opens.
  3. Next, download the offline installer from Opera’s website.
    opera gx offline installer download
  4. Disconnect from the Internet and run the installer.

Alternatively, you can use the Repair option instead.

You can also use the re-install option and check if that solves the problem for you. In case the Opera GX installer is not working properly, take a look at the guide linked in order to see what to do about it.

Alternatively, check out how to fix the Opera GX stuck on installing for the current user error if you encounter this problem. We also covered what to do if Opera GX isn’t responding, so don’t miss that guide.

Many reported that Opera isn’t working on Windows 11, but we have an entire guide dedicated to this issue.

In some instances, Opera might be open, but isn’t showing, and we covered that issue in a separate guide.

What method did you use to fix this problem? Let us know in the comments section below.

More about the topics: Browser errors, Opera issues

Milan Stanojevic

Milan Stanojevic Shield

Windows Toubleshooting Expert

Milan has been enthusiastic about technology ever since his childhood days, and this led him to take interest in all PC-related technologies. He's a PC enthusiast and he spends most of his time learning about computers and technology. Before joining WindowsReport, he worked as a front-end web developer. Now, he's one of the Troubleshooting experts in our worldwide team, specializing in Windows errors & software issues.

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