If you're running Android apps on your Windows 11 device using the Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA), you might occasionally encounter situations where the subsystem becomes unresponsive or apps start behaving unexpectedly. Restarting the WSA can often resolve these issues. Here's how you can restart Windows Subsystem for Android on your Windows 11 computer.

Restart Windows Subsystem for Android from the app settings

The easiest way to restart WSA is through its own settings. This method is straightforward and doesn't require any advanced technical knowledge.

  1. Open the Start Menu and click on All apps at the top right corner.
  1. Scroll through the list of apps and click on Windows Subsystem for Android.
  1. In the WSA settings window, locate the Turn off Windows Subsystem for Android section. Click the Turn off toggle on the right side. This will close all running Android apps and shut down the WSA.
  1. To restart WSA, simply open any Android app or launch the Windows Subsystem for Android app again.

Restart Windows Subsystem for Android from Task Manager

Alternatively, you can restart WSA using the Task Manager. This method forcefully closes the subsystem, so it's generally recommended only if the first method doesn't work.

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open the Task Manager.
  2. Ensure you're on the Processes tab. Scroll down and find Windows Subsystem for Android. Right-click on it and select End task from the context menu.
  1. To start WSA again, open any Android app or launch the WSA app from the Start Menu.

Restarting the Windows Subsystem for Android can resolve many common issues. Using these methods, you can quickly get your Android apps running smoothly on Windows 11.