WFP protects critical system files that are installed as part of Windows (for example, files with a .dll, .exe, .ocx, and .sys extension and some True Type fonts). WFP uses the file signatures and catalog files that are generated by code signing to verify if protected system files are the correct Microsoft versions.

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. To do this, follow these steps: Open an elevated command prompt.

System File Checker is a utility in Windows that checks for problems with files on your computer. To run it, follow these steps: Make sure you've installed the latest updates for Windows, and then restart your machine. To find out more, read Update Windows.

Learn how to update drivers in Windows using Device Manager to update or reinstall a driver.

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.

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. In the File Download dialog box, click Run or Open, and then follow the steps in the Windows Security Troubleshooter.

First, you'll need to download the troubleshooter. Download troubleshooter. If you see the File Download box when you start downloading, select Run or Open. The troubleshooter provides steps for you to follow. If a program isn't listed in the uninstall options, you'll be asked for that program's product code.

Important Defender for Endpoint has been removed from the base image for Windows 11, version 24H2 and needs to be manually installed whenever a device goes from Home to Pro. Use the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) command-line tool to install the Windows Sense Client from an elevated command prompt. See the command below.

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.

Repair options from the Settings page. Select Start > Settings > Apps > Apps & features. Select the More icon next to the app you want to fix. Select the Advanced options link under the name of the app (some apps don't have this option). On the page that opens, select Repair if it's available.