Your essential guide to fixing the frustrating "Recording Stopped" error in the Windows 11 Snipping Tool, specifically when attempting screen recording.
Keywords: Windows 11 Snipping Tool error, Recording Stopped fix, Snipping Tool recording fails, disable controlled folder access, update Snipping Tool, Xbox Game Bar conflict
Contents 📋
What Causes the "Recording Stopped" Error in Snipping Tool?
The Windows 11 Snipping Tool received a major update, introducing built-in screen recording functionality. However, users often encounter an immediate failure when trying to start a new recording, resulting in the message: "Recording Stopped" or a similar error preventing the video save.
This issue is rarely a bug within the Snipping Tool itself but is almost always caused by system-level conflicts or protective measures. The most common root causes are:
- Security Policy Conflict: Windows Defender's Controlled Folder Access feature preventing the app from writing the video file to the desktop or documents folder.
- Outdated Components: An outdated version of the Snipping Tool or core system components (like Xbox Game Bar or necessary drivers).
- Conflicting Background Services: Another screen recording or overlay application interfering with the recording process.
⚠ Note: The "Recording Stopped" error often happens even if you have successfully taken screenshots with the tool.
Method 1: Update the Snipping Tool App (Quickest Fix)
Microsoft frequently releases patches for the Snipping Tool through the Microsoft Store. Ensuring you have the latest version is the fastest way to resolve known bugs.
- Open the Microsoft Store app (Search for "Store").
- In the left sidebar, click on Library.
- Click the Get updates button in the upper right.
- Look for the Windows Snipping Tool or Snipping Tool in the list. If an update is available, let it download and install automatically.
- Restart the Snipping Tool and test the recording function.
Method 2: Disable Controlled Folder Access (Security Conflict Fix)
This is the most common reason for the "Recording Stopped" error. Controlled Folder Access (CFA), part of Windows Security, blocks unauthorized apps (sometimes including newly updated ones like Snipping Tool) from modifying or saving files in protected locations like the Desktop or Documents folder.
Steps to Temporarily Disable CFA
- Go to Settings (Windows Key + I) > Privacy & security > Windows Security.
- Click on Virus & threat protection.
- Under Ransomware protection, click Manage ransomware protection.
- Toggle Controlled folder access to Off temporarily.
- Test the Snipping Tool recording. If it works, you have confirmed the conflict.
Adding Snipping Tool as an Exception (Recommended)
If the temporary fix worked, you should re-enable CFA and add the Snipping Tool as a trusted app for long-term security:
- Re-enable Controlled folder access.
- Click Allow an app through Controlled folder access.
- Click Add an allowed app > Browse all apps.
- Navigate to:
C:\Program Files\WindowsApps(You may need to show hidden files first). - Find the folder starting with Microsoft.ScreenSketch (or similar, typically the newest version) and select the main application executable (usually the one with the app icon).
Method 3: Check for System & Component Updates
If the error persists, ensure there are no underlying system issues or driver conflicts, which can interfere with screen capture capabilities.
1. Check Windows Updates
Ensure your operating system is fully up to date, as core system updates often include patches for built-in tools like Snipping Tool.
- Go to Settings > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates and install any pending cumulative or driver updates.
2. Check Xbox Game Bar and Graphics Drivers
Both of these components are heavily involved in screen recording processes on Windows:
- Xbox Game Bar: Open the Microsoft Store and check for updates for the Xbox Game Bar. Although Snipping Tool is separate, conflicts with other capture utilities can cause issues.
- Graphics Drivers: Visit your PC manufacturer's support site (Dell, HP, Lenovo) or your GPU manufacturer (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel) to download and install the latest dedicated graphics drivers.
After performing all updates, restart your PC and try recording again.