When you start your computer successfully, the Windows Registry Checker tool (Scanreg.exe) creates a backup of system files and registry configuration information (including user account information, protocol bindings, software program settings, and user preferences) once daily.

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.

There are different ways to remove apps and programs, so if you can't find the one you're looking for, you can try another location. Note that some apps and programs are built into Windows and can't be uninstalled. You can try to repair a program first, if it's just not running correctly.

Install a printer in Windows 10. Fix printer problems in Windows 7 and Windows 8.1. The Program Install and Uninstall troubleshooter helps you automatically repair issues when you're blocked from installing or removing programs.

The Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool (MSRT) helps remove malicious software from computers that are running any of the following operating systems: Windows 11. Windows Server 2022. Windows 10. Windows Server 2019. Windows Server 2016. Windows 8.1. Windows Server 2012 R2. Windows Server 2008 R2. Windows 7. Windows Server 2008.

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.

Follow these steps to automatically diagnose and repair Windows security problems by turning on UAC, DEP protection, Windows Firewall, and other Windows security options and features. Select the Download button on this page.

Regedit.exe uses .reg files to import and export registry subkeys and values. You can use these .reg files to remotely distribute registry changes to several Windows-based computers. When you run a .reg file, the file contents merge into the local registry.

How to back up and restore the registry in Windows. Back up the registry manually. Select Start , type regedit.exe in the search box, and then press Enter. If you are prompted for an administrator password or for confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.

To fix problems using Windows Update: Select Start > Settings > System > Recovery > Fix problems using Windows Update. After you select the Reinstall now option, choose if you want to allow the PC to automatically restart 15 minutes after the installation completes.