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.

Use this app to try to recover lost files that have been deleted from your local storage device (including internal drives, external drives, and USB devices) and can’t be restored from the Recycle Bin.

Select Start > Settings > System > Sound > Troubleshoot common sound problems and select Output devices or Input devices.

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. It is periodically updated based on customer feedback to help you make the most of your Windows PC.

To open File Explorer in Windows 11, select File Explorer on the taskbar or press the Windows logo key + E on your keyboard. Here are some things to try if File Explorer won't open. Check for updates. Restart your device. Reset your PC.

In the left navigation pane, under Folders, locate the Recycle Bin folder, and then drag the Recycle Bin folder to the desktop. On the Tools menu, click Folder Options . Click the View tab, and then click to select the Hide protected operating system files (Recommended) check box.

Show or hide the Recycle Bin. Select the Start  button, then select Settings . Select Personalization > Themes > Desktop icon settings. Select the Recycle Bin check box > Apply. To get to desktop icon settings in Windows 8.1, swipe in from the right edge of the screen, then select Search.

Resolves a vulnerability in Windows Explorer that could allow remote code execution if a user visited a specially crafted webpage.

Make sure you have the latest updates for Windows and device drivers. 2. Restart your PC and open only the apps you need. 3. Use ReadyBoost to help improve performance. 4. Make sure the system is managing the page file size. 5. Check for low disk space and free up space.

Find the Recycle Bin. If your desktop shows no icons at all, right-click (or press and hold) the desktop and select View. If Show desktop icons has no checkmark, click it to add one. If that doesn't work, try this: Select Start > Settings > Personalization > Themes > Desktop icon settings.