Windows errors can disrupt productivity, slow down your system, or prevent you from using key features. Whether you’re a casual home user or a seasoned IT specialist, knowing how to quickly identify and fix common Windows problems can save valuable time and reduce frustration. This article offers the top 10 ways to troubleshoot and fix Windows errors, focusing on efficient, real-world solutions related to Clean Up & Repair. The advice is tailored for both beginners and advanced users, with sections clearly marked for each skill level.
1. Restart Your Computer (Beginner)
Why does this work?
Many errors are temporary glitches caused by memory leaks or hung processes. Restarting your PC clears temporary files and resets system processes.
How to do it efficiently:
Before rebooting, save your work. Press Alt + F4 on the desktop and select Restart. This method is faster than using the Start menu.
Real-world tip:
After installing updates or software, always restart to ensure all changes are applied correctly.
2. Run Windows Troubleshooter Tools (Beginner)
What are they?
Windows includes built-in troubleshooters for common issues (network, sound, Windows Update, etc.).
How to use:
Open Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot. Select the relevant troubleshooter and follow on-screen instructions.
Time-saving tip:
Run troubleshooters before searching the web for fixes—they often resolve issues automatically.
3. Use Glary Utilities for One-Click Maintenance (Beginner to Intermediate)
Why Glary Utilities?
Instead of manually cleaning up junk files, repairing registry errors, or managing startup programs, Glary Utilities bundles these tools in one package.
How to use:
Download Glary Utilities from the official site. Launch the program and use the 1-Click Maintenance option to scan and fix common system problems in minutes.
Key benefits:
Removes unnecessary files, repairs registry errors, and optimizes start-up routines—saving hours of manual work.
4. Check for Windows Updates (Beginner)
Why updates matter:
Outdated systems are prone to bugs and security holes.
How to check:
Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > Check for updates.
Time-saving tip:
Set updates to install automatically to minimize manual intervention.
5. Scan for Malware and Viruses (Beginner)
Malware can cause a variety of system errors. Use Windows Security (Windows Defender) or your preferred antivirus software to run a quick scan.
How to do it:
Type Windows Security in the Start menu, open Virus & threat protection, and run a Quick Scan.
Advanced users:
Run a full scan or use specialized tools like Malwarebytes for deeper inspections.
6. Free Up Disk Space (Beginner to Intermediate)
Low disk space can trigger errors and slow performance.
Quick cleanup:
Open Settings > System > Storage and use Storage Sense.
Advanced cleanup with Glary Utilities:
Use Glary Utilities’ Disk Cleaner and Temporary File Cleaner for more thorough results. These tools remove unnecessary files left by old installs, browser caches, and more.
7. Repair Corrupt System Files (Intermediate)
Use System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM).
How to use SFC:
Open Command Prompt as administrator and type: sfc /scannow
Let it scan and repair files automatically.
DISM for advanced users:
If SFC can’t fix problems, run:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Both tools can fix deep-rooted Windows issues without needing a full reinstall.
8. Check Hardware Health (Intermediate to Advanced)
Hardware errors (bad RAM, failing hard drives) can cause persistent Windows errors.
How to check:
Run Windows Memory Diagnostic for RAM issues.
Check drive health with built-in tools (chkdsk) or Glary Utilities’ Disk Repair feature.
Steps:
Open Command Prompt as administrator, type chkdsk /f, and follow prompts.
Advanced users:
Use manufacturer tools or third-party apps for in-depth diagnostics.
9. Manage Startup Programs (Beginner to Intermediate)
Too many startup programs can cause slow boots or errors.
How to clean up:
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
Go to the Startup tab and disable unnecessary entries.
With Glary Utilities:
Use the Startup Manager to easily enable/disable and manage startup entries.
10. Restore Your System (Advanced)
When all else fails, roll back your system settings using System Restore.
How to use:
Type System Restore in the Start menu and follow prompts to revert to a previous restore point.
Advanced tip:
Before making major changes or installing new software, create a manual restore point.
Summary Table: Quick Reference
Beginner Tips
– Restart your computer
– Run Windows Troubleshooters
– Use Glary Utilities 1-Click Maintenance
– Check for Windows Updates
– Scan for malware
Intermediate to Advanced Tips
– Free up disk space with advanced tools
– Repair system files (SFC/DISM)
– Check hardware health
– Manage startup programs more thoroughly
– Use System Restore for recovery
Final Thoughts
Troubleshooting Windows errors doesn’t have to be time-consuming or complex. Using a combination of built-in utilities and comprehensive third-party solutions like Glary Utilities can streamline your repair and cleanup process. Whether you’re clearing out junk files, repairing system errors, or diagnosing hardware problems, these methods will help keep your Windows system running smoothly and efficiently.