Windows 10 is a robust operating system, but like any technology, it can occasionally run into problems. System slowness, app crashes, and hardware errors are common issues. Fortunately, Windows 10 and third-party developers provide effective diagnostic utilities to help you find and fix these problems. If you’re a beginner, this guide introduces you to the most reliable tools and strategies for diagnosing issues and keeping your PC running smoothly.
What Are Windows Diagnostic Utilities and Why Should You Use Them?
Diagnostic utilities are built-in or add-on tools that identify, troubleshoot, and sometimes repair common Windows issues. They help you pinpoint the source of problems, from low disk space to failing hardware components. Regularly using these tools can prevent minor glitches from turning into bigger problems.
Which Built-in Tools Can Help Identify Problems on My PC?
Windows 10 comes equipped with several built-in tools that are easy for beginners to access:
1. Windows Troubleshooter
Open Settings, go to Update & Security, then Troubleshoot. Here you’ll find troubleshooters for various issues like internet connectivity, audio playback, and Windows Update failures. Just click the relevant troubleshooter and follow the instructions.
2. Task Manager
Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to launch Task Manager. You can view which programs use the most CPU, memory, or disk, and end any that are causing slowdowns. It’s a great way to see if a specific app is overloading your system.
3. Reliability Monitor
Type “Reliability Monitor” in the Start menu and select View reliability history. This tool shows a timeline of system events, including crashes and hardware failures, and suggests potential solutions.
How Can I Check My System Health with Third-Party Utilities?
While Windows’ built-in utilities are useful, third-party tools often provide deeper insights and easier cleanup. One standout is Glary Utilities. It’s beginner-friendly and offers a comprehensive set of diagnostic features:
4. Glary Utilities – 1-Click Maintenance
Download and install Glary Utilities. Open the program and select 1-Click Maintenance. This scans for issues like registry errors, disk problems, and startup bottlenecks, and provides easy options to fix them all at once.
5. Glary Utilities – System Information
Within Glary Utilities, go to the Advanced Tools tab and select System Information. This feature gives you a detailed overview of your hardware, making it easier to spot failing devices or outdated drivers.
What Strategies Can I Use to Avoid Performance Issues?
Regular diagnostics and maintenance are key. Here’s how:
6. Disk Cleanup
Use the built-in Disk Cleanup tool (type “Disk Cleanup” in the Start menu) to remove temporary files and free up space. Alternatively, Glary Utilities’ Disk Cleaner can automate this process and catch more unnecessary files.
7. Memory Diagnostics
If your PC is crashing or freezing, your RAM might be at fault. Type “Windows Memory Diagnostic” in the Start menu, run the tool, and follow the prompts to reboot and check your memory.
How Can I Monitor Startup Programs?
Too many startup programs can significantly slow down your PC:
8. Glary Utilities – Startup Manager
Within Glary Utilities, access the Startup Manager. Here, you can easily disable unnecessary startup programs, improving boot times and system performance.
What About Checking for Disk Errors?
Disk issues can cause data loss and system crashes:
9. Check Disk Utility (chkdsk)
Type “cmd” in the Start menu, right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator. Type “chkdsk /f” and press Enter. This scans and repairs disk errors. You may need to restart your PC.
10. Glary Utilities – Disk Repair
Glary Utilities also offers Disk Repair under Advanced Tools, which provides a user-friendly way to check for and fix disk errors without using command-line prompts.
Conclusion
Beginners can confidently diagnose and address most Windows 10 problems using these tools and strategies. Start with Windows’ built-in utilities for quick checks, and consider Glary Utilities for more comprehensive, one-click diagnostics and repairs. Regular use of these utilities will keep your system fast, stable, and error-free—no technical expertise required.