Observing Windows in safe mode enables you to narrow down the source of a problem, and can help you troubleshoot problems on your PC. There are two versions of safe mode: Safe Mode and Safe Mode with Networking. Safe Mode with Networking adds the network drivers and services you'll need to access the internet and other computers on your network.

To check for updates, select Start > Settings > Windows Update , then select Check for updates. If updates are available, you can choose to install them. Check for updates. If you run into problems updating your device, including problems with previous major updates, see common fixes at Troubleshoot problems updating Windows.

Learn how to run Windows Update Troubleshooter to resolve errors downloading or installing Windows updates.

Explore Phone Link. Become a Windows Insider and get early access to the newest experiences in Phone Link. Learn more about accessibility options to help you use Phone Link in a way that best suits your needs. Learn more about the latest Phone Link features. Find time-saving hacks and explore how you can use Phone Link.

Activate Windows using a product key. A product key is a 25-character code, that looks like this: PRODUCT KEY: XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX. During installation, you'll be prompted to enter a product key. Or, after installation, to enter the product key, select the Start button, and then select Settings > System > Activation > Update product ...

Use a USB cable to connect your device to the PC. In the search box on the taskbar, type photos and then select the Photos app from the results. Select Import from the app bar. Your devices will automatically show under Import. Choose your device from the list of connected devices. Wait for the content to load from your device.

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. Under Device specifications > System type , see if you're running a 32-bit or 64-bit version of Windows.

Open your Windows Security settings. Select Virus & threat protection > Protection history. The Microsoft Defender Offline scan will automatically detect and remove or quarantine malware. Learn how to remove malware from your PC. Use Microsoft Defender Antivirus in Windows 10 or Windows 11 to scan your PC for malware, viruses, or other threats.

For the best experience, download and install the new version of the Quick Assist app from Microsoft Store. If you have problems installing Quick Assist, here are some steps to try to get it installed and working properly.

On the View tab, select View settings. Select Accounts > Email accounts. From the email accounts pane, you can now select the option to Add account, Manage an existing account. Select Add Account, then in the Suggested account dropdown, add the Gmail account you want to add, and select Continue. Follow the prompts to complete the process.