Windows errors are frustrating, but most have straightforward fixes that do not require a computer science degree or expensive repair visit.
Blue Screen of Death
A blue screen means Windows encountered an unrecoverable error. If it happens once, restart and move on. If it keeps happening:
- Update drivers, especially graphics card, from the manufacturer website
- Run Windows Memory Diagnostic from the Start menu to test RAM
- Open Command Prompt as administrator and run sfc /scannow for corrupted system files
- Check for and install pending Windows updates
- If it started after new hardware, that hardware or its driver is likely the cause
The error code on the blue screen is your best clue. Search for it online for targeted advice.
Windows Update Failures
Go to Settings, System, Troubleshoot, Other Troubleshooters, and run the Windows Update troubleshooter. If that does not help, open Command Prompt as administrator and restart update services:
- net stop wuauserv
- net stop bits
- net start wuauserv
- net start bits
Then try Windows Update again.
Slow Computer Performance
Open Task Manager with Ctrl+Shift+Esc and check which resources are maxed out. If CPU is high, check which process is consuming it. If memory is near 100%, close unused programs or consider a RAM upgrade. If disk is at 100% with a traditional hard drive, upgrading to an SSD transforms performance dramatically.
Application Crashes and Freezes
- Close and reopen the application
- Check for application updates
- Restart your computer
- Uninstall and reinstall the application
- Check the vendor support page for known issues
If an app freezes, press Ctrl+Shift+Esc, find it in Processes, and click End Task.
Wi-Fi Connection Problems
- Toggle airplane mode on and off
- Forget the network and reconnect with password
- Restart your router by unplugging for 30 seconds
- Update Wi-Fi adapter driver in Device Manager
- Run Network troubleshooter from Settings
Disk Space Running Low
Go to Settings, System, Storage to see usage. Enable Storage Sense for automatic cleanup. Run Disk Cleanup and click Clean Up System Files for Windows Update cleanup, which can free several gigabytes.
Most Windows errors have solutions that take five to fifteen minutes. The pattern is almost always: identify the error, try the built-in troubleshooter first, then work through manual fixes.
