The Program Install and Uninstall troubleshooter helps you automatically repair issues when you're blocked from installing or removing programs. It also fixes corrupted registry keys. First, you'll need to download the troubleshooter. Download troubleshooter.

Advanced startup options (including safe mode) Windows 7. The Advanced Boot Options screen lets you start Windows in advanced troubleshooting modes. You can access the menu by turning on your computer and pressing the F8 key before Windows starts. Some options, such as safe mode, start Windows in a limited state, where only the bare essentials ...

Check which version of DirectX is installed. The DxDiag tool reports detailed information about the DirectX components and drivers installed on your system and can be used.

Change or reset your PIN. A PIN is a user-defined set of numbers, or a combination of numbers and letters, that allows you to sign in to your Windows device instead of a password. Your PIN is securely stored on your device, it isn’t transmitted anywhere, and it isn’t stored on a server.

If a problem doesn't happen in safe mode, this means that default settings and basic device drivers aren't causing the issue. Observing Windows in safe mode enables you to narrow down the source of a problem, and can help you troubleshoot problems on your PC.

Your Surface comes with Windows recovery info that you can use to refresh your Surface or reset it to its factory condition. Always try to do that first before downloading a recovery image. To learn more, see the links below.

Open Control Panel in Windows. In the search box next to Start on the taskbar, type control panel. Select Control Panel from the list of results. Note: Many Control Panel features are simpler and faster in Settings . Open Settings.

This update automatically applies Safe OS Dynamic Update ( KB5034232) to the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) on a running PC to address a security vulnerability that could allow attackers to bypass BitLocker encryption by using WinRE. For more information, see CVE-2024-20666. NOTE This update requires 250 MB of free space in the recovery ...

Using Magnifier on Windows 11. Magnifier makes part or all of your screen bigger so you can see words and images better. Expand any or all of the following sections to learn more about Magnifier.

Protect your Android, iPhone, Mac, and Windows devices from threats by installing Microsoft Defender. Download Microsoft Defender on your devices either by: Scanning the following QR code. Searching for Microsoft Defender in your app store. Sharing with your devices, the following link: Copy link.