If some Windows functions aren't working or Windows crashes, use the System File Checker to scan Windows and restore your files. Though the steps below might look complicated at first glance, just follow them in order, step-by-step, and we’ll try to get you back on track.

Fix your audio drivers. Hardware problems can be caused by outdated or malfunctioning drivers. Make sure your audio driver is up to date and update it if needed. If that doesn't work, try uninstalling the audio driver (it will reinstall automatically).

To find out which version of Windows your device is running, press the Windows logo key + R, type winver in the Open box, and then select OK. Here’s how to learn more: Select Start > Settings > System > About . Open About settings.

How to remove malware or viruses from my Windows 10 PC. Microsoft Defender Antivirus and Windows Firewall are on your device to help protect it from viruses and other malicious software. But if you think they've missed something run Microsoft Defender Offline which can sometimes detect malware that others scanners missed. Was this information ...

For Windows 8.1, see Create a USB recovery drive. To download Windows 11 installation media, see Recovery options in Windows. Create a recovery drive so you can reinstall Windows 10 or Windows 11 in case you experience a major issue such as hardware failure.

When you’re ready to make your PC sleep, just press the power button on your desktop, tablet, or laptop, or close your laptop’s lid. On most PCs, you can resume working by pressing your PC's power button. However, not all PCs are the same.

Restoring files from previous versions. Restore deleted files and folders or restore a file or folder to a previous state. Navigate to the folder that used to contain the file or folder, right-click it, and then select Restore previous versions.

You can use installation media (a USB flash drive or DVD) to install a new copy of Windows, perform a clean installation, or reinstall Windows. To create installation media, go to the software download website, where you'll find step-by-step instructions.

How to use the PC Health Check app. Windows 11 Windows 10. PC Health Check app brings you up to date info on your Windows device health, helping you take action to improve your device performance and troubleshoot performance problems.

Ways to install Windows 11. Installing Windows 11 on devices that don't meet minimum system requirements. If you changed your hardware in order to upgrade to Windows 11 and the system is not recognizing the change in a timely manner, this article explains how to initiate the assessment manually.