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)

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. How to open PC Health Check. In Windows, use Search on the taskbar to ...

Windows Security (Windows Defender Security Center in previous versions of Windows) enables you to scan specific files and folders to make sure they're safe. You'll be notified immediately if any threats are found. To scan specific files or folders, right-click a file or folder, select Show more options, and then select Scan with Microsoft ...

To open Steps Recorder, select the Start button, and then select Windows Accessories > Steps Recorder (in Windows 10), or Accessories > Problem Steps Recorder (in Windows 7 or Windows 8.1). Select Start Record. Go through the steps to reproduce the problem you’re trying to diagnose.

In File Explorer under View, in the Show/hide group, select the File name extensions check box. Below is a list of common Windows file name extensions and formats. Learn what file name extensions are, which extensions are common in Windows, and how to view them in File Explorer.

If your Surface isn’t working properly, the Microsoft Surface app and Surface Diagnostic Toolkit can help you find and solve problems. Notes: If your work or school manages your Surface, check with your IT department before running the tool.

You can start a scan for malware any time you like. Note: Microsoft Defender currently offers anti-malware on Windows, Android, and macOS. From the Microsoft Defender dashboard. If you want a deeper scan, instead of selecting Quick scan in step 3, select Scan options and choose the type of scan you want.

Troubleshoot your Surface Pen. Surface Devices Surface. This article provides troubleshooting steps to help resolve issues with your Surface Pen if it isn't writing, opening apps, or connecting to Bluetooth.

If you cannot open your Outlook data file or suspect that the file is damaged, use the Inbox Repair tool (scanpst.exe) to repair errors in the file.

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. Restoring won’t affect your personal files, but it will remove apps, drivers, and updates installed after the restore point was made.