Windows systems, by their very nature and broad compatibility, are subject to occasional errors—ranging from simple software hiccups to more troublesome hardware conflicts. For intermediate users, it’s crucial not only to know how to fix these errors but also to avoid common mistakes that can make troubleshooting harder. Here are the top 10 ways to maintain effective error fixing habits, along with practical advice on clean-up and repair.
Are You Backing Up Before Making Changes?
One of the most frequent mistakes is to jump in and edit system settings or registry entries without a proper backup. Even seasoned users can overlook this step. Always create a restore point before making changes. In Windows, search for “Create a restore point” in the Start menu, then use the System Restore tab to create a new point. This lets you roll back if something goes wrong.
What’s Running in the Background?
Many errors stem from software conflicts, especially with programs running invisibly in the background. Before troubleshooting, open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) and review running processes. Disable unnecessary startup programs—this can be managed easily through Glary Utilities’ Startup Manager. This step helps you ensure a clean environment for error diagnosis.
Are Temporary Files Clogging Your System?
Old, unused files can cause errors, especially during installations or updates. Regularly clean temporary files using Windows’ built-in Disk Cleanup tool, or let Glary Utilities handle it automatically. Its Disk Cleaner module efficiently removes these files, reducing the risk of installer failures and “disk full” errors.
Do You Check for Corrupted System Files?
Corrupted system files are a common source of Windows errors. Running the System File Checker (SFC) is an essential step. Open Command Prompt as administrator, and run:
sfc /scannow
This scans and repairs system files. Glary Utilities also offers a 1-Click Maintenance feature, which includes registry and shortcut repair to further reduce system errors.
How Often Do You Update Windows and Drivers?
Outdated Windows versions and drivers are a frequent culprit for errors. Always check for updates from Settings > Update & Security. For drivers, use Device Manager or a reputable update utility. Avoid random driver websites; getting drivers from the manufacturer or Windows Update is safest. Glary Utilities provides a Software Update tool to help keep programs current.
Are You Using Reliable Cleanup Tools?
Using multiple or questionable third-party cleaners can cause more harm than good, leading to accidental deletions or registry corruption. Stick to well-known tools like Glary Utilities, which offers safe, comprehensive cleanup operations and detailed explanations for each action. Avoid running multiple cleaners simultaneously.
Have You Checked the Event Viewer?
Windows Event Viewer is a powerful tool for error diagnosis, but it can be overwhelming. Focus on the Application and System logs for errors marked by a red icon. These logs often contain clues about recurring issues or recent changes that may have triggered errors.
Do You Regularly Scan for Malware?
Malware can cause mysterious errors, system instability, or slowdowns. Use Windows Defender or a trusted malware scanner. Glary Utilities includes a Malware Remover tool for an extra layer of protection. Running regular scans can prevent errors before they appear.
Are You Careful with Registry Cleaners?
While registry errors can cause problems, indiscriminate registry cleaning is risky. Never use aggressive settings, and always back up the registry first. Glary Utilities’ Registry Cleaner is designed to be safe for standard cleaning tasks, but review found issues before applying fixes.
Do You Document Your Changes?
When troubleshooting, it’s easy to lose track of what changes you’ve made. Keep a simple text log of steps taken, errors encountered, and solutions tried. This habit prevents repeated mistakes and helps if you need further assistance or revert changes.
Summary
Windows error fixing is as much about avoiding mistakes as it is about knowing what to fix. By following these ten best practices—backing up, cleaning up, staying updated, and using trusted tools like Glary Utilities—you’ll prevent many common issues and be better equipped to resolve those that arise. Remember, careful preparation and methodical troubleshooting are the foundation of a stable, reliable Windows system.