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. Run the System File Checker tool (SFC.exe)

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.

The Program Install and Uninstall troubleshooter helps you automatically repair issues when you're blocked from installing or removing programs.

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.

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.

Free up drive space in Windows. If your PC is running low on free space, you might not be able to install important Windows updates, and your PC’s performance may be affected. Here are some ways to free up space so you can keep your PC up to date and running smoothly.

You can quickly check the health of your Surface drivers and firmware using the Surface app. Open the Surface app. In the Surface app, expand Help & support to check the update status. If there are updates available, select the Check for updates button to open Windows Update and install the available updates.

Check your device performance and health in Windows Security. To help you keep your device secure, Windows Security monitors your device for security issues and provides a health report, which appears on the Device performance & health page.

Use System restore to make restore points when you install a new app, driver, or Windows update, and when you create a restore point manually.

Your PC isn't working well and you recently installed an app. Restore from a system restore point. You suspect your device has been infected. Use installation media to reinstall Windows 11. Select one of the recovery options below and follow the steps to try to get things working again.