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)

What it fixes. The troubleshooter helps fix problems that: Corrupt registry keys on 64-bit operating systems. Corrupt registry keys that control the update data. Prevent new programs from being installed. Prevent existing programs from being completely uninstalled or updated.

Use this app to try to recover lost files that have been deleted from your local storage device (including internal drives, external drives, and USB devices) and can’t be restored from the Recycle Bin.

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.

You can use installation media (a USB flash drive or DVD) to install a new copy of Windows, perform a clean installation, or reinstall Windows. To create installation media, go to the software download website, where you'll find step-by-step instructions.

This update allows Windows desktop applications that depend on the Windows 10 Universal CRT release to run on earlier Windows operating systems. Microsoft Visual Studio 2015 creates a dependency on the Universal CRT when applications are built by using the Windows 10 Software Development Kit (SDK).

Step 2. Install Office. Select the Microsoft 365 folder from the virtual drive and then double-click either the Setup32.exe to install the 32-bit version of Microsoft 365, or Setup64.exe to install the 64-bit version to begin the offline installation.

A BitLocker recovery key is needed when BitLocker can’t automatically unlock an encrypted drive in Windows. This key, which is a 48-digit number, is used to regain access to the drive. You might be prompted for the BitLocker recovery key during startup, due to a security risk or hardware change:

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.

If you accidentally delete a file or folder in OneDrive, you may be able to recover it later from the OneDrive recycle bin, and if you're a Microsoft 365 subscriber, you can even restore your entire OneDrive if something goes wrong.