What causes "Houdini Stuck on Splash Screen at Startup"?

OpenFX plugin default path causing the hang

How do I fix "Houdini Stuck on Splash Screen at Startup"?

1. Disable the OpenFX default path: Add HOUDINI_DISABLE_OPENFX_DEFAULT_PATH = 1 to your houdini.env file Make sure the line does not start with # Launch Houdini again On a remote desktop, also see the SideFX FAQ entry 560

Houdini Stuck on Splash Screen at Startup

Workaround available Windows, macOS, Linux Updated November 14, 2026How we research

Quick answer

If Houdini never gets past the splash screen, set HOUDINI_DISABLE_OPENFX_DEFAULT_PATH = 1 in houdini.env and relaunch.

Most likely fix: Disable the OpenFX default path

How to fix it

Try these in order — the most common fix is first.

1. Disable the OpenFX default path
1. Add HOUDINI_DISABLE_OPENFX_DEFAULT_PATH = 1 to your houdini.env file
2. Make sure the line does not start with #
3. Launch Houdini again
4. On a remote desktop, also see the SideFX FAQ entry 560
Did this fix it?

Symptoms

Houdini starts, shows the splash screen and never opens.

Why it happens

OpenFX plugin default path causing the hang

This guide also covers

houdini stuck on splash screen
houdini won't start
houdini crashes on startup

Still not working?

If Houdini keeps failing, you're not alone. See every Houdini problem users report or the alternatives people switch to.

Have an app idea? Our small team builds any software: web and mobile apps, games, desktop, AI tools. Price agreed together.

Talk to us

Fixed it? Share this guide