Windows errors can be frustrating and time-consuming, especially when you’re unsure where to start. Whether you’re facing slow performance, software crashes, or mysterious pop-ups, knowing the right troubleshooting methods can save you hours. This guide covers 12 essential error-fixing tips, focusing on quick, practical approaches to keep your Windows PC running smoothly. Each tip is tailored to both beginners and advanced users, with step-by-step instructions and examples. Where relevant, we’ll highlight how Glary Utilities can streamline your maintenance routine.
Beginner-Friendly Windows Error Fixing Tips
1. Restart Your Computer First
Why it Works: Many temporary Windows glitches resolve themselves after a simple reboot. Restarting clears your system memory, closes unnecessary background tasks, and can instantly fix minor issues like freezing applications or sluggish performance.
Example: If a program isn’t responding, save your work if possible, and restart your PC before trying complicated fixes.
2. Use Windows Troubleshooters
Built-in troubleshooters can automatically detect and fix common issues, such as internet connectivity problems, printer errors, and audio malfunctions.
How to Use:
– Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
– Choose the specific troubleshooter for your problem (e.g., Internet Connections, Windows Update).
– Follow the on-screen instructions.
3. Run Disk Cleanup for Quick Storage Repair
A cluttered hard drive can slow down your computer and cause file errors. Disk Cleanup removes temporary files, system cache, and more.
How to Use:
– Type “Disk Cleanup” in the Start menu search bar and select the app.
– Choose the drive you want to clean and click OK.
– Select the file types to delete, then click OK again.
Tip: Glary Utilities offers a more thorough cleaning by finding junk files, system cache, and browser leftovers across all installed browsers and applications.
4. Update Windows and Drivers Regularly
Outdated system files or drivers often lead to errors and incompatibilities.
How to Update:
– Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
– Click “Check for updates” and install if available.
– For drivers, Device Manager helps update specific hardware components.
Time-saving Tip: Glary Utilities’ Driver Manager can scan and update outdated drivers in a single click, reducing the risk of errors related to incompatible hardware.
5. Scan for Malware
Viruses or malware can cause all sorts of Windows errors, from pop-ups to system crashes.
How to Scan:
– Windows Security: Open Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Quick scan.
– Consider a full scan for deeper inspection.
For ongoing protection, Glary Utilities includes a Malware Remover module that works alongside your antivirus to catch potentially harmful items some programs miss.
Intermediate and Advanced Windows Error Fixing Methods
6. Check System Files with SFC
Corrupted or missing system files often cause persistent errors. System File Checker (SFC) can repair these automatically.
How to Use:
– Open Command Prompt as Administrator (right-click Start, choose Command Prompt (Admin)).
– Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
– Wait for the scan to complete and follow any prompts.
7. Use DISM to Repair Windows Image
If SFC can’t fix your problem, Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) often can.
How to Use:
– Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
– Enter dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth
– Wait for the process to finish, then reboot.
8. Clean the Windows Registry
A cluttered or corrupted registry can trigger software errors and system instability.
How to Clean:
Manual registry edits are risky, but automated tools make it safe.
– Glary Utilities’ Registry Cleaner scans for invalid, broken, or outdated registry entries and safely removes them.
– Open Glary Utilities, select Registry Cleaner, and follow the prompts for a quick scan and fix.
9. Manage Startup Programs
Too many startup applications can slow down your PC and cause boot errors.
How to Manage:
– Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
– Go to the Startup tab.
– Disable unnecessary programs by right-clicking and choosing Disable.
For a more detailed view, Glary Utilities’ Startup Manager lists all startup items (including hidden ones) and allows easy one-click disabling.
10. Check for Hardware Issues
Frequent crashes or blue screens can signal failing hardware.
How to Check:
– Use Windows Memory Diagnostic (type in Start menu and follow prompts).
– For hard drives, use CHKDSK: Open Command Prompt as Admin, type chkdsk /f and press Enter. Follow the instructions to schedule a scan at next restart.
Efficient Repairs: Glary Utilities’ Disk Repair utility detects and fixes drive errors quickly as part of its One-Click Maintenance.
Expert-Level Tips for Persistent Windows Errors
11. Restore System to a Previous State
If new errors appear after a driver update or software install, System Restore can revert your PC to a previous, working state without affecting your personal files.
How to Use:
– Type “Create a restore point” in Start, click System Restore.
– Choose a restore point from before the problem began and follow instructions.
Glary Utilities also offers a Restore Center, logging all its changes with the option to undo them if needed.
12. Perform a Clean Boot
A clean boot starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs, helping you identify if background software is causing errors.
How to Do It:
– Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
– On the Services tab, check “Hide all Microsoft services,” then click “Disable all.”
– On the Startup tab, open Task Manager and disable all startups.
– Restart your PC and check if the error persists.
If the problem disappears, re-enable services and startups one by one to pinpoint the culprit.
Summary: Save Time and Headaches
By mastering these essential Windows error-fixing methods, you can quickly solve most common problems, prevent new ones, and keep your system running efficiently. For both beginners and advanced users, Glary Utilities stands out as an all-in-one toolkit, making many of these tasks safer and faster. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to errors ensure your Windows experience remains smooth and trouble-free.