36. How to Fix the Most Common Windows Problems

Windows is the most popular operating system in the world, running on over 1 billion devices. Like any software, Windows can sometimes run into problems and bugs. Here are some of the most common Windows issues and how to fix them:

Troubleshooting Slow Performance

A slow computer can make even simple tasks unbearably frustrating. There are several potential causes of laggy performance on Windows:

Too Many Startup Programs

Too many programs starting up when Windows boots can slow down your system. To disable startup programs:

1. Type “Task Manager” into the search bar and open the Task Manager app.
2. Click on the Startup tab.
3. Disable any unnecessary startup programs by right-clicking on them and selecting “Disable”.

Fragmented Hard Drive

A fragmented hard drive means files are scattered across your hard disk. Windows has to work harder to access fragmented data.

• To defragment your hard drive open the Disk Defragmenter app in Windows.
• Click on the drive you want to defragment and click “Optimize” to start defragmentation.

Outdated Drivers

Device drivers allow hardware components like printers and graphics cards to communicate with Windows. Outdated drivers can bog down performance.

• Open the Device Manager.
• Expand each device category and right-click to update any drivers with an available update.

Troubleshooting Crashes and Freezes

An unresponsive Windows system that freezes and crashes can certainly be aggravating. Try these troubleshooting tips:

Check Event Viewer

The Event Viewer keeps detailed logs of system events and errors. Often it will contain clues about why Windows crashed.

• Type “Event Viewer” into the search bar and open it.
• Look under Windows Logs > System for error events around the time of a crash.

Test Hardware Components

Faulty hardware, like bad RAM or a failing hard drive can cause Windows crashes. Stress test components with tools like Windows Memory Diagnostic.

Scan for Malware

Malware infections can overload a system and cause freezing or crashing. Scan your system for malware with Windows Defender or third party antivirus software like Malwarebytes.

Fixing Corrupt System Files

Critical Windows system files can sometimes become corrupted. This can cause crashes and prevent Windows from booting properly.

Use System File Checker

The System File Checker scans Windows files and can replace corrupted ones with a cached copy.

• Open an elevated Command Prompt.
• Type SFC /scannow and hit enter.

Start in Safe Mode

Booting in Safe Mode loads only the essential Windows files and drivers. This can allow you to access Windows and run repairs if corruption is preventing normal startup.

• Hold down the Shift key while clicking Restart in Windows.
• Select Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings.
• Choose Safe Mode.

System Restore

System Restore lets you roll back Windows to an earlier state if a recent update or software change caused issues.

• Open System Restore and choose a restore point before the issues began.
• Click Scan for Affected Programs to check for potential conflicts.
• Click Next to Confirm the restoration.

By identifying the problem area and applying the right troubleshooting steps, you can get your Windows PC running smoothly again.