Maintaining a healthy Windows system is key to keeping your computer fast, secure, and reliable. Over time, issues can crop up—corrupt files, leftover junk, slow boot times, and more. Fortunately, Windows comes with built-in repair tools, and there are excellent third-party utilities like Glary Utilities that make cleanup and repair much easier. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned PC user, these 12 essential Windows system repair tools tips will help you tackle common problems and optimize your computer.
Why System Repair and Cleanup Matter
A cluttered or error-ridden Windows system can cause crashes, slowdowns, and even data loss. Regular cleanup and repair keep your machine running smoothly, help prevent serious issues, and extend your computer’s life.
Tips 1-6: For Beginners
1. Use Windows Troubleshooters for Quick Fixes
Windows has built-in troubleshooters for fixing frequent problems, such as network issues, sound problems, and Windows Update errors. To access them, go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot. Select the relevant troubleshooter and follow the on-screen instructions.
2. Run Disk Cleanup to Free Up Space
Disk Cleanup is a basic tool for deleting temporary files, system cache, and other unnecessary data. Type Disk Cleanup in the Start menu, select your drive, and let the tool scan for files to remove. Check the boxes next to items you want to delete, then click OK.
3. Repair Startup Problems with Startup Repair
If your PC won’t boot, use Startup Repair. Restart your computer while holding Shift to enter the recovery menu, then go to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Repair. This tool attempts to fix issues that prevent Windows from starting.
4. Scan for System File Corruption with SFC
Corrupt system files can cause various problems. The System File Checker (SFC) scans and repairs these files. Open Command Prompt as administrator and type
sfc /scannow
Let the scan finish and follow any prompts to repair files.
5. Restore Your System with System Restore Points
If a recent update or software installation caused trouble, System Restore can roll your PC back to a previous state. Go to Control Panel > Recovery > Open System Restore. Choose a restore point before the problem started and follow the prompts.
6. Clean Up & Repair with Glary Utilities
For a simple, all-in-one solution, try Glary Utilities. Its 1-Click Maintenance feature scans for junk files, registry errors, and broken shortcuts. It can clean up and repair your system in minutes. Download and install Glary Utilities, then use the 1-Click Maintenance option to get started.
Tips 7-12: For Advanced Users
7. Analyze Disk Health with Check Disk (chkdsk)
Chkdsk scans your hard drive for errors and can fix bad sectors. Run Command Prompt as admin and type
chkdsk C: /f
Replace “C:” with your drive letter if needed. The tool will check and repair file system issues after a reboot.
8. Use DISM to Repair Windows Image
If SFC can’t fix a problem, try the Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM). Open Command Prompt as admin and type
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
This command repairs the Windows system image, which SFC depends on.
9. Manage Startup Programs with Task Manager or Glary Utilities
Too many startup programs slow down boot times. Open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) and switch to the Startup tab to disable unnecessary entries. Glary Utilities also offers an easy Startup Manager under Advanced Tools, which provides additional details and recommendations.
10. Deep Clean the Registry Safely
Over time, the Windows Registry can fill with outdated entries. Glary Utilities includes a Registry Cleaner that safely scans and removes invalid entries. Always back up your registry before making changes.
11. Uninstall Unwanted Programs Thoroughly
Unused programs waste space and can cause conflicts. Glary Utilities’ Uninstall Manager goes beyond Windows’ default uninstaller by removing leftover files and registry entries, ensuring a cleaner system.
12. Backup and Restore with System Image
For full peace of mind, create a system image backup. Go to Control Panel > Backup and Restore (Windows 7) > Create a system image. Store the backup on an external drive for easy recovery if something goes wrong.
Real-World Example: Cleaning and Repairing a Slow PC
Let’s say your computer has become sluggish and often crashes. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
1. Run Disk Cleanup to remove temp files.
2. Use Glary Utilities’ 1-Click Maintenance for a broader scan (junk files, registry errors, shortcuts).
3. Run SFC and DISM to check and repair system files.
4. Use Task Manager and Glary Utilities to disable unneeded startup programs.
5. Uninstall old software with Glary’s Uninstall Manager.
6. Restart your PC and notice the performance improvement.
Final Thoughts
Regular maintenance and knowing how to use these repair tools will keep your Windows PC healthy. Beginners can stick to the basics, while advanced users can explore deeper tools and Glary Utilities’ rich feature set for comprehensive cleanup and repair. With these 12 tips, you’ll be well-equipped to handle most common Windows problems and keep your system running like new.