Windows computers can slow down or misbehave for many reasons, but with the right tools and good habits, you can keep your PC running smoothly and fix problems more easily. Many users make common mistakes when troubleshooting performance issues, often overlooking the best features Windows provides for clean up and repair. Here, we’ll explore 12 essential Windows tools and features, explain common pitfalls beginners should avoid, and provide clear, actionable steps for each.
What Is Performance Troubleshooting in Windows?
Performance troubleshooting means identifying and fixing the causes of slowdowns, crashes, or unexpected behavior on your Windows PC. Clean up and repair are important parts of this, as they remove clutter, fix errors, and restore system health.
Why Do Beginners Struggle with Windows Performance Issues?
Many beginners:
– Skip built-in tools and jump straight to third-party “boosters” that can do more harm than good.
– Ignore routine maintenance tasks.
– Forget to back up important data.
– Make changes without understanding the consequences.
Let’s highlight the best tools and how to use them properly for basic troubleshooting.
1. Task Manager: What Is Slowing Down My PC?
Mistake: Ignoring Task Manager or only looking at CPU usage.
How to use: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc or right-click the taskbar and choose Task Manager. Click the ‘Processes’ tab to see which apps use the most CPU, memory, and disk. If something is using too many resources, right-click and select ‘End Task’ (but avoid ending system processes). This helps you spot and stop troublesome apps quickly.
2. Disk Cleanup: How Can I Free Up Space Safely?
Mistake: Deleting files manually without understanding what’s safe.
How to use: Type “Disk Cleanup” in the Start menu. Select the drive you want to clean, and check boxes for items like “Temporary files” and “Recycle Bin.” Review the list before cleaning. Disk Cleanup removes unnecessary files that can slow your system.
3. Storage Sense: Can Windows Clean Automatically?
Mistake: Forgetting to schedule regular cleanups.
How to use: Go to Settings > System > Storage. Turn on Storage Sense to automate disk cleanup. You can schedule it to run on a timetable, so your PC stays clean with less effort.
4. Glary Utilities: Is There an All-in-One Solution?
Mistake: Using multiple random programs instead of a trusted all-in-one tool.
How to use: Download and install Glary Utilities. Open the program and use the “1-Click Maintenance” feature to scan for junk files, registry issues, and privacy risks. Glary Utilities combines several cleanup and repair tasks in one safe, easy-to-use suite, making it ideal for beginners.
5. System File Checker (SFC): What If Windows Files Are Corrupted?
Mistake: Reinstalling Windows without checking for file corruption.
How to use: Type “cmd” in the Start menu, right-click Command Prompt, and select “Run as administrator.” Type sfc /scannow and press Enter. This tool checks and repairs essential Windows files, often fixing performance problems without the need for drastic measures.
6. Windows Update: Are You Missing Important Fixes?
Mistake: Ignoring updates due to fear of slowing the PC.
How to use: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. Click “Check for updates.” Updates include important fixes and security patches. Failing to update can cause sluggishness and bugs.
7. Programs and Features: Are Unused Apps Hurting Performance?
Mistake: Leaving old or unused programs installed.
How to use: Go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features. Review the list and uninstall software you no longer use. Removing bloatware frees up space and may prevent conflicts.
8. Startup Apps: What Slows Down Boot Time?
Mistake: Allowing too many programs to launch at startup.
How to use: In Task Manager, switch to the “Startup” tab. Disable apps you don’t need when Windows starts. This speeds up boot time and reduces unnecessary background activity.
9. Windows Defender & Security: Could Malware Be the Cause?
Mistake: Not running scans or using multiple conflicting antivirus programs.
How to use: Open Windows Security (from the Start menu). Run a “Quick scan” under Virus & Threat Protection. For extra protection, use Glary Utilities’ malware scanner alongside Defender, but avoid using multiple full antivirus programs at once.
10. Reliability Monitor: Can You Track System Crashes and Errors?
Mistake: Ignoring the source of crashes or repeated errors.
How to use: Type “Reliability Monitor” in the Start menu and open it. Review the timeline for any recent warnings or failures. Click on entries for more details and follow suggested actions. This tool helps you identify recurring issues and their causes.
11. Restore Points: What If Something Goes Wrong?
Mistake: Making big changes without a backup.
How to use: Search for “Create a restore point” in the Start menu. Make sure System Protection is on, then click “Create” before making major changes. If something goes wrong, you can roll back your system.
12. Windows Troubleshooters: Are You Using Microsoft’s Automated Help?
Mistake: Overlooking built-in troubleshooters.
How to use: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot. Run troubleshooters for common problems like Internet connections, audio, or Windows Update. These can automatically detect and fix issues.
Summary: How to Avoid Common Windows Troubleshooting Mistakes
– Use built-in tools first before turning to third-party solutions.
– Automate regular cleanups using Storage Sense or Glary Utilities.
– Keep your system updated and protected.
– Uninstall unused programs and limit startup apps.
– Make regular restore points before major changes.
– Investigate errors with Reliability Monitor instead of ignoring them.
By building good habits and using the right features, you’ll solve performance issues faster and avoid the pitfalls that trip up so many beginners. For all-in-one management, remember that Glary Utilities offers a safe, simple way to keep your PC clean, optimized, and healthy. With these tools and techniques, you’ll be well on your way to mastering clean up and repair for better Windows performance.