All browsers (Chrome, Opera, Firefox) instantly close after fresh Windows reinstall – Edge works fine

Troubleshooting Browser Crashes Post-Windows Reinstallation on Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 2i

Introduction

Encountering persistent application crashes after a clean Windows installation can be a perplexing challenge, especially when multiple browsers display similar behavior. This article examines a real-world scenario involving a refurbished Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 2i running Windows 11, where all major browsers except Edge immediately close upon launch. We explore the troubleshooting steps undertaken, analyze potential causes, and suggest strategies for resolving such issues.

Background

The user experienced a clean Windows 11 reinstall, after which they installed Google Chrome. Initially, Chrome worked without issues, allowing browsing and restarts. However, after shutting down the system overnight, Chrome began crashing immediately upon launch—its window briefly appeared before closing without any error messages. Notably, other browsers such as Opera and Firefox exhibited identical behavior, while Microsoft Edge continued to function normally.

System Specifications

Model: Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 2i
Processor: Intel Core i7-1185G7 (11th Generation)
Graphics: Intel Iris Xe
RAM: 16 GB
Operating System: Windows 11 Pro
BIOS Version: N35ET63W (version 1.63)

Troubleshooting Endeavors

A comprehensive set of diagnostic steps was undertaken, including:

Performing a clean Windows 11 reinstallation
Disabling Intel Active Management Technology (AMT) and Management Engine (ME) in BIOS
Testing portable (standalone) versions of Chrome
Removing all user profiles and browser data
Booting the system in a clean state using selective startup (minimal services)
Launching browsers with various command-line flags (--no-sandbox, --disable-gpu)
Reviewing Windows Event Viewer logs for relevant warnings or errors
Confirming that Microsoft Edge functions correctly
Ensuring no third-party antivirus or tuning utilities are installed
Checking for enforced policies via registry keys
Disabling security features such as Exploit Protection and Controlled Folder Access
Verifying Windows security features including Smart App Control and Memory Integrity

Key Observations and Analysis

The primary anomaly is the immediate termination of browsers—Chrome, Opera, and Firefox—post-reboot, despite normal operation right after installation. Since Edge functions properly, the issue likely resides within system-level security policies, system configurations, or core components affecting browser processes.

Potential Causes Include: