First, you'll need to download the troubleshooter. Download troubleshooter. If you see the File Download box when you start downloading, select Run or Open. The troubleshooter provides steps for you to follow. If a program isn't listed in the uninstall options, you'll be asked for that program's product code.

When critical Windows system files are missing or corrupted, your operating system may begin to malfunction. Common symptoms include Windows features not working properly, system errors, or Windows becoming unresponsive or freezing.

To find out if an app or program is installed in Windows, select Start > Settings > Apps.

Get Help has troubleshooters you can run for many common scenarios. These often help resolve issues without the need to contact support. If a troubleshooter is available for your issue, select Start to run that troubleshooter.

Learn how to use Manage and Optimize Drives to keep your disk and data drives defragmented and at top performance in Windows.

Go to Windows 11 servicing options. Need to know about required disk space, error codes, removing an installed update, or other update questions? Find more help at Windows Update: FAQ. If you’re an IT professional, you can defer updates. Go to Windows 10 servicing options.

Download the drivers for the desired device from the device manufacturer's site. Make sure to download the correct drivers that match the version and architecture of Windows. Once downloaded, if necessary, uncompress the downloaded drivers. Make a note of where the drivers are located on the Windows device.

Get Help has troubleshooters you can run for many common scenarios. These often help resolve issues without the need to contact support. If a troubleshooter is available for your issue, select Start to run that troubleshooter. After you run any troubleshooter, Get Help provides details on any findings and suggestions for possible remedies.

Microsoft Defender Offline will load and perform a quick scan of your PC in the Windows Recovery Environment. When the scan completes, your PC automatically restarts. Note: To see the results of the offline scan, open the Windows Security app on your Windows device and select Protection history.

Installation media, such as a USB flash drive, can be used to install a new copy of Windows, perform a clean installation of Windows, or reinstall Windows. To create installation media, go to the software download website, where step-by-step instructions can be found.