12-Step Guide to Resolving Windows Performance Issues
Experiencing a slow or unresponsive Windows computer can be frustrating. This guide provides 12 practical steps to identify and resolve common performance issues, helping you restore your system’s efficiency.
Key Takeaways
Step | Action | Purpose |
---|---|---|
1 | Update Device Drivers | Ensure hardware components function optimally with the latest drivers. |
2 | Run Windows Update | Keep the operating system up-to-date with security patches and improvements. |
3 | Delete Temporary Files | Free up disk space and remove unnecessary files that may slow down the system. |
4 | Run Disk Defragmentation | Organize fragmented data to improve read/write speeds (not applicable for SSDs). |
5 | Check Device Manager | Identify and resolve hardware conflicts or issues. |
6 | Run Disk Cleanup | Remove unnecessary system files to free up space. |
7 | Run Check Disk Utility | Scan and repair disk errors that may affect performance. |
8 | Clean Hardware Components | Prevent overheating and hardware malfunctions by removing dust and debris. |
9 | Disable Hardware Acceleration in Applications | Resolve performance issues caused by hardware acceleration conflicts. |
10 | Check for Overheating and Hardware Issues | Ensure hardware components are functioning within safe temperature ranges. |
11 | Perform a Clean Boot | Identify and disable startup programs that may be causing performance issues. |
12 | Reset or Reinstall Windows | Resolve persistent issues by restoring the operating system to its default state. |
Step 1: Update Windows
Keeping your Windows operating system up-to-date is crucial for system stability and security. Regular updates can prevent errors like the SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION from occurring. Here’s how to ensure your Windows is current:
-
Open Windows Update Settings:
- Click the Start button (the Windows icon in the bottom-left corner).
- Select Settings (the gear icon).
- In the Settings window, choose Update & Security.
-
Check for Updates:
- In the Windows Update section, click on Check for updates.
- Windows will search for available updates. If any are found, they will begin downloading automatically.
-
Install Updates:
- Once the updates are downloaded, click Install now.
- After installation, you may be prompted to restart your computer. Save any open work and click Restart now.
Expert Tip: It’s advisable to schedule updates during periods of low activity to minimize disruptions. You can set active hours in the Windows Update settings to prevent automatic restarts during your typical work hours.
For a visual guide on manually updating Windows 10 and 11, you can refer to the following video:
Regularly updating your system not only helps in preventing errors but also ensures you have the latest features and security patches. As an expert, I’ve seen numerous cases where simply keeping the system updated has resolved persistent issues.
Step 2: Update Device Drivers
Ensuring that your device drivers are up-to-date is essential for system stability and performance. Outdated or corrupt drivers can lead to errors such as the SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION. Here’s how to update your drivers:
-
Open Device Manager:
- Press the Windows key + X and select Device Manager.
-
Identify the Device:
- Expand the category of the device you wish to update (e.g., Display adapters for graphics drivers).
- Right-click on the specific device and select Update driver.
-
Update the Driver:
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software. Windows will search and install the latest driver if available.
- If no updates are found, you can manually download the latest driver from the manufacturer’s website and select Browse my computer for drivers to install it.
Expert Advice: While Windows Update and Device Manager are useful tools, they might not always provide the latest drivers. For critical components like graphics cards, it’s advisable to visit the manufacturer’s website directly to obtain the most recent drivers. For instance, NVIDIA and AMD regularly release driver updates to enhance performance and fix known issues.
Additionally, consider using reputable driver update tools to simplify the process. One such tool is EaseUS DriverHandy, which can easily scan, update, and fix your PC’s drivers.
For a visual guide on updating drivers in Windows 10, you can refer to the following video:
Regularly updating your device drivers can prevent many system errors and ensure optimal performance. As an expert, I’ve encountered numerous cases where outdated drivers were the root cause of system instability. Keeping drivers current is a proactive step toward maintaining a healthy system.
Step 3: Run Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool
Faulty RAM can lead to system instability and errors like the SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION. To check your computer’s memory for issues, you can use the built-in Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool. Here’s how:
-
Access the Tool:
- Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type
mdsched.exe
and press Enter.
-
Choose a Restart Option:
- In the dialog that appears, select Restart now and check for problems (recommended) to begin the test immediately. Ensure you’ve saved all work before proceeding.
- If you prefer to run the test later, choose Check for problems the next time I start my computer.
-
Running the Test:
- Upon restart, the tool will automatically begin testing your memory. A blue screen will display the progress and status of the test.
- By default, the tool runs in standard mode. For more thorough testing, press F1 and select the Extended test mix. This mode is more comprehensive but will take longer to complete.
-
Reviewing Results:
- After the test completes, your computer will restart. Once you’re back in Windows, the test results will appear as a notification.
- If you don’t see the notification, you can view the results in the Event Viewer:
- Press the Windows key + X and select Event Viewer.
- Navigate to Windows Logs > System.
- Look for entries labeled MemoryDiagnostics-Results to see the outcomes of the test.
Expert Advice: If the diagnostic tool reports errors, it’s advisable to test each RAM module individually to identify the faulty one. This involves removing all memory modules and testing them one at a time. Additionally, ensure that your BIOS is up-to-date, as outdated BIOS versions can sometimes cause memory compatibility issues.
For a visual guide on using the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool, you can refer to the following video:
Regularly testing your system’s memory can help identify issues before they lead to significant problems. As an expert, I’ve encountered numerous cases where early detection of memory faults prevented data loss and prolonged system downtime.
Step 4: Check for Hard Drive Errors with CHKDSK
Hard drive errors can lead to system instability and errors like the SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION. Windows provides a built-in utility called CHKDSK (Check Disk) to identify and repair disk-related issues. Here’s how to use it:
-
Using the Graphical User Interface (GUI):
- Open File Explorer by pressing the Windows key + E.
- In the left pane, click on This PC.
- Right-click the drive you want to check (commonly the C: drive) and select Properties.
- Navigate to the Tools tab.
- Under the Error checking section, click Check.
- If no errors are found, a dialog will state, “You don’t need to scan this drive.” You can still choose to scan by clicking Scan drive.
- Follow the on-screen instructions. If prompted to schedule the scan during the next restart, confirm and then restart your computer.
-
Using the Command-Line Interface:
- Press the Windows key, type cmd, and in the search results, right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
- In the Command Prompt window, type
chkdsk C: /f /r
and press Enter. Here:/f
instructs CHKDSK to fix any found errors./r
tells CHKDSK to locate bad sectors and recover readable information; this implies/f
.
- If the drive is in use, you’ll be prompted to schedule the check for the next restart. Type Y and press Enter, then restart your computer.
Expert Advice: While CHKDSK is a powerful tool, it’s essential to back up important data before running it, especially with the /r
parameter, as the process can be time-consuming and, in rare cases, may result in data loss if the drive is failing. In my experience, I’ve encountered situations where running CHKDSK resolved persistent system errors, but always ensure data integrity by maintaining regular backups.
For a more user-friendly experience, consider using third-party tools that offer graphical interfaces for disk checking. One such tool is CheckDiskGUI, which provides a straightforward interface for CHKDSK operations. You can download it here: https://checkdiskgui.en.softonic.com/
Regularly checking your hard drive for errors can prevent data corruption and maintain system stability. If errors persist after running CHKDSK, it might indicate hardware issues, and consulting a professional or considering hardware replacement could be necessary.
Step 5: Run System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM)
Ensuring the integrity of your system files is crucial for maintaining a stable and efficient Windows environment. Two essential utilities for this purpose are the System File Checker (SFC) and the Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM). As an IT professional with years of experience, I’ve found these tools invaluable for diagnosing and repairing system issues.
Understanding SFC and DISM
- System File Checker (SFC): This utility scans all protected system files and replaces corrupted or incorrect versions with the correct Microsoft versions. It’s particularly useful when you’re experiencing issues that may be related to system file corruption.
- Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM): DISM is used to repair the Windows image, which includes the files required for the operating system’s recovery and installation. Running DISM can fix issues that prevent SFC from working correctly.
When to Use SFC and DISM
In my experience, if you’re encountering persistent system errors, crashes, or performance issues, it’s prudent to run these utilities. For instance, I once dealt with a client’s computer that was experiencing frequent blue screen errors. Running DISM followed by SFC resolved the issue by repairing corrupted system files.
Steps to Run DISM and SFC
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
- Click on the Start menu.
- Type
cmd
in the search bar. - Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
- Run DISM:
- In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
- This process may take several minutes. DISM will use Windows Update to provide the files required to fix corruptions. If your Windows Update client is broken, use a Windows installation media as the repair source, or a Windows side-by-side folder from a network share or removable media, by running:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth /Source:C:\RepairSource\Windows /LimitAccess
- Replace
C:\RepairSource\Windows
with the location of your repair source.
- Run SFC:
- After DISM completes, in the same Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow
- SFC will scan all protected system files and replace corrupted files with a cached copy located in a compressed folder at
%WinDir%\System32\dllcache
. This process may also take several minutes.
- Review the Results:
- Once the scan is complete, you may see one of the following messages:
- Windows Resource Protection did not find any integrity violations: This means no system files are missing or corrupted.
- Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files and successfully repaired them: This indicates that SFC found and fixed the issues.
- Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files but was unable to fix some of them: In this case, you may need to examine the
CBS.Log
file for more details. The log is located at%windir%\Logs\CBS\CBS.log
.
Expert Advice
It’s advisable to run these tools periodically as part of your system maintenance routine. However, always ensure you have a recent backup of your important data before performing system repairs. In my practice, I recommend using reliable backup solutions like MiniTool ShadowMaker to safeguard your data.
Remember, while SFC and DISM are powerful tools, they should be used with caution. If you’re unsure about performing these steps, consult with a professional to avoid unintended system issues.
Step 6: Uninstall Recently Installed Programs
Uninstalling recently installed programs can help resolve issues like the SYSTEM_SERVICE_EXCEPTION error. Here’s how to do it:
Method 1: Using Windows Settings
- Click on the Start menu and select Settings.
- Navigate to Apps and then Apps & features.
- Scroll through the list to find the program you want to uninstall.
- Click on the program and select Uninstall.
Note: If the program isn’t listed here, proceed to the next method.
Method 2: Using Control Panel
- Press Win + R, type
control
, and press Enter to open the Control Panel. - Click on Programs and then Programs and Features.
- Locate the program in the list, right-click, and choose Uninstall.
This method can be effective for programs not visible in the Settings app.
Method 3: Using Third-Party Uninstaller
If standard methods fail, consider using a third-party uninstaller like Revo Uninstaller. It can remove stubborn programs and clean residual files.
- Download and install Revo Uninstaller from the official website.
- Launch the application and select the program you wish to uninstall.
- Click on Uninstall and follow the prompts.
Revo Uninstaller can be particularly useful for removing programs that don’t uninstall cleanly.
Expert Advice
In my experience, some programs leave behind residual files and registry entries even after uninstallation. Using tools like Revo Uninstaller ensures a more thorough cleanup, preventing potential conflicts or errors in the future.
Additional Resources
For a visual guide on uninstalling programs, you might find this video helpful:
Remember to always create a system restore point before uninstalling critical software to safeguard your system against potential issues.
Step 7: Disable or Uninstall Third-Party Antivirus Software
Third-party antivirus programs can sometimes interfere with system operations or conflict with other software. Disabling or uninstalling them can help troubleshoot issues or prepare for new installations.
Disabling Third-Party Antivirus Software
To temporarily disable your antivirus software:
- Locate the antivirus icon in the system tray (bottom-right corner of the screen).
- Right-click the icon to open the context menu.
- Select the option to disable or pause protection. The wording may vary depending on the software.
Note: The exact steps can differ based on the antivirus program you’re using. If you’re unsure, consult the software’s official documentation.
Uninstalling Third-Party Antivirus Software
If you decide to permanently remove the antivirus software:
- Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type
control panel
and press Enter. - Navigate to Programs > Programs and Features.
- Scroll through the list to find your antivirus program.
- Right-click on the program and select Uninstall.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the uninstallation process.
For more detailed instructions, refer to Microsoft’s guide on uninstalling programs: Uninstall or remove apps and programs in Windows.
Using Specialized Removal Tools
Some antivirus programs may leave residual files or registry entries after standard uninstallation. To ensure complete removal:
- Visit the official website of your antivirus provider.
- Look for a dedicated removal tool specific to your antivirus software.
- Download and run the tool following the provided instructions.
For example, Kaspersky provides a comprehensive guide on removing third-party antivirus applications: How to remove a third-party anti-virus application from your computer.
Expert Advice
In my experience, even after uninstalling antivirus software, some components can linger and cause conflicts. I recommend using the official removal tools provided by the antivirus developers to ensure all remnants are cleared. Additionally, always restart your computer after uninstallation to apply changes effectively.
Alternative Security Solutions
After removing third-party antivirus software, it’s crucial to maintain your system’s security. Consider using built-in solutions like Windows Defender or exploring reputable alternatives. For instance, Malwarebytes offers robust protection against various threats.
For a visual guide on disabling third-party antivirus software, you might find this video helpful:
Step 8: Run a Full System Malware Scan
Regularly performing a comprehensive malware scan is essential to ensure your system remains free from malicious software. Here’s how to conduct a full system scan using Windows Defender:
- Access Windows Security:
- Click the Start button.
- Type Windows Security and press Enter.
- Navigate to Virus & Threat Protection:
- In the Windows Security window, select Virus & threat protection.
- Initiate a Full Scan:
- Click on Scan options.
- Select Full scan.
- Click Scan now to begin the process.
Note: A full scan thoroughly examines all files and running programs on your hard disk, which can be time-consuming but is crucial for detecting hidden malware. It’s advisable to run a full scan when you can spare the system resources and time, such as overnight.
In my experience, while quick scans are useful for routine checks, they might miss deeply embedded threats. Therefore, scheduling regular full scans, perhaps weekly, ensures a more robust defense against potential infections.
For users seeking additional protection layers, consider reputable third-party tools like Malwarebytes, which can complement Windows Defender by targeting a broader range of threats.
Remember, maintaining updated security definitions and regularly scanning your system are fundamental practices to safeguard your data and ensure optimal performance.
For a visual guide on running a virus scan in Windows 10, you might find this video helpful:
Step 9: Disable Hardware Acceleration in Applications
Hardware acceleration is a feature that allows applications to offload certain tasks to hardware components, typically the GPU, to improve performance. However, in some cases, it can cause issues such as screen tearing, stuttering, or other graphical anomalies. Disabling hardware acceleration can help resolve these problems.
Why Disable Hardware Acceleration?
- Performance Issues: In some scenarios, hardware acceleration can lead to performance problems like screen tearing or stuttering.
- Compatibility: Certain applications may not function correctly with hardware acceleration enabled, leading to graphical glitches or crashes.
How to Disable Hardware Acceleration in Common Applications
Google Chrome
- Open Chrome.
- Click on the three dots in the upper-right corner to open the menu.
- Select Settings.
- On the left side, click on System.
- Toggle off the switch for Use hardware acceleration when available.
- Restart Chrome.
Mozilla Firefox
- Open Firefox.
- Click on the menu button and select Settings.
- On the General tab, scroll down to Performance.
- Uncheck Use recommended performance settings.
- Uncheck Use hardware acceleration when available.
- Restart Firefox.
Windows Operating System
- Right-click on the desktop and select Display settings.
- Scroll down and click on Graphics under the “Related settings” section.
- In the “Change default graphics settings” section, look for Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling.
- If it’s enabled, switch it off.
- Restart your computer to apply the changes.
For more detailed instructions, you can refer to this guide: Enable/Disable Chrome Hardware Acceleration.
Expert Advice
As someone who has dealt with numerous performance issues related to hardware acceleration, I recommend testing each application individually after disabling the feature. Some applications may perform better with hardware acceleration enabled, while others may not. It’s essential to find the right balance for your specific setup.
Additionally, always ensure your graphics drivers are up-to-date. Outdated drivers can cause compatibility issues with hardware acceleration. Regularly updating your drivers can prevent many common problems.
Visual Representation of Performance Impact
Below is a simple bar graph illustrating the potential performance impact of disabling hardware acceleration in various applications:
Note: The percentages above are illustrative and may vary based on individual system configurations.
Related Tools
To ensure your system remains secure and performs optimally, consider using reputable security software. For instance, Malwarebytes offers comprehensive protection against various threats.
Remember, while disabling hardware acceleration can resolve certain issues, it’s essential to monitor your system’s performance and re-enable the feature if necessary.
Step 10: Check for Overheating and Hardware Issues
Overheating and hardware malfunctions can significantly degrade your computer’s performance and may lead to permanent damage if not addressed promptly. As an expert in system diagnostics, I’ve encountered numerous cases where simple preventive measures could have averted costly repairs.
Identifying Signs of Overheating
Common indicators that your system may be overheating include:
- Unexpected shutdowns or restarts
- System freezes or unresponsiveness
- Unusual fan noises running at high speeds constantly
- Burning smells or excessive heat emanating from the device
Monitoring System Temperatures
To effectively monitor your system’s temperature, consider using specialized software tools. One reliable option is:
- Core Temp: A user-friendly application that provides real-time temperature readings of your CPU. Be cautious during installation to avoid unwanted software. Learn more.
Preventive Measures to Avoid Overheating
Implement the following strategies to maintain optimal system temperatures:
- Ensure Proper Ventilation: Place your computer in a well-ventilated area to facilitate adequate airflow.
- Regular Cleaning: Periodically clean internal components to remove dust accumulation that can obstruct airflow.
- Thermal Paste Maintenance: Reapply thermal paste to the CPU as needed to enhance heat dissipation.
- Monitor Resource-Intensive Applications: Be mindful of running multiple demanding applications simultaneously, as this can increase heat generation.
Diagnosing Hardware Issues
Hardware problems can manifest in various ways, such as system instability or performance degradation. To diagnose potential hardware failures, utilize built-in diagnostic tools:
- Performance Monitor: A comprehensive tool in Windows that provides detailed insights into hardware performance and potential issues. Access it by typing
perfmon /report
in the Run dialog box. Learn more. - Windows Memory Diagnostic: This tool tests your system’s RAM for errors. Launch it by typing
mdsched.exe
in the Run dialog box and following the prompts. Learn more.
Expert Advice
In my experience, neglecting early signs of hardware issues often leads to more severe problems down the line. For instance, I once encountered a case where a client’s computer suffered frequent crashes due to a failing hard drive. Regular backups and proactive hardware monitoring could have prevented data loss and system downtime.
Recommended Tools
For comprehensive hardware diagnostics and maintenance, consider the following tools:
- MiniTool Power Data Recovery: An effective solution for recovering lost or deleted files from various storage devices. Learn more.
- MiniTool Partition Wizard: A versatile tool for disk partition management and optimization. Learn more.
By staying vigilant and employing these strategies, you can maintain your computer’s health and ensure its longevity.
Step 11: Perform a Clean Boot
When troubleshooting software conflicts or performance issues in Windows, performing a clean boot can be an effective diagnostic step. A clean boot starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs, helping to identify if background applications are interfering with your system.
Why Perform a Clean Boot?
Over time, as you install new software, multiple applications may configure themselves to start automatically with Windows. While this can be convenient, it can also lead to software conflicts, system instability, or performance degradation. A clean boot helps isolate the cause of these issues by loading only essential services and drivers.
Steps to Perform a Clean Boot
- Access System Configuration:
- Press the Windows + R keys simultaneously to open the Run dialog box.
- Type
msconfig
and press Enter.
- Configure Selective Startup:
- In the System Configuration window, navigate to the General tab.
- Select Selective startup.
- Uncheck the box labeled Load startup items.
- Disable Non-Microsoft Services:
- Click on the Services tab.
- Check the box labeled Hide all Microsoft services to prevent disabling essential services.
- Click Disable all to disable the remaining non-Microsoft services.
- Disable Startup Programs:
- Navigate to the Startup tab.
- Click on Open Task Manager.
- In the Task Manager window, select each startup item and click Disable.
- Close Task Manager.
- Apply Changes and Restart:
- In the System Configuration window, click OK.
- Restart your computer to enter the clean boot environment.
Identifying the Problematic Service or Startup Item
After performing a clean boot, observe if the issue persists. If not, you can systematically re-enable services and startup items to identify the culprit:
- Open System Configuration and navigate to the Services tab.
- Enable a subset of the disabled services.
- Restart your computer.
- If the issue reoccurs, the problematic service is within the subset you enabled. Narrow it down by testing each service individually.
- Repeat the process with startup items in Task Manager.
Restoring Normal Startup
Once you’ve identified and addressed the problematic service or application:
- Open System Configuration and select the General tab.
- Choose Normal startup.
- Navigate to the Services tab and click Enable all.
- Go to the Startup tab, open Task Manager, and enable all desired startup items.
- Click OK and restart your computer.
Expert Advice
As someone who has navigated numerous system configurations, I recommend documenting each change you make during this process. This practice ensures you can easily revert to previous settings if needed. Additionally, always ensure your system is backed up before making significant changes to prevent data loss.
Additional Resources
For a visual guide on performing a clean boot, you might find this tutorial helpful:
Remember, while a clean boot is a powerful diagnostic tool, it’s essential to proceed cautiously and ensure you understand each step to avoid unintended system changes.
Step 12: Reset or Reinstall Windows
When troubleshooting persistent system issues, resetting or reinstalling Windows can be an effective solution. This process restores your system to its default state, potentially resolving software-related problems.
Understanding the Difference: Reset vs. Reinstall
- Resetting Windows: This option reinstalls Windows while allowing you to choose whether to keep your personal files or remove everything. It’s a straightforward method to refresh your system without the need for external media.
- Reinstalling Windows: This involves performing a clean installation using external media, such as a USB drive. It completely erases the existing system, providing a fresh start.
Resetting Windows
- Open the Settings app.
- Navigate to System > Recovery.
- Under Recovery options, select Reset PC.
- Choose one of the following options:
- Keep my files: Retains your personal files but removes apps and settings.
- Remove everything: Removes all personal files, apps, and settings.
- Select the reinstallation method:
- Cloud download: Downloads the latest version of Windows from Microsoft’s servers. Requires an internet connection.
- Local reinstall: Reinstalls Windows from files already on your device.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset process.
Note: Ensure your device is connected to a power source during this process to prevent interruptions.
Reinstalling Windows Using Installation Media
- Create a bootable USB drive with the Windows installation media. You can use the Media Creation Tool for this purpose.
- Insert the USB drive into your computer.
- Restart your computer and boot from the USB drive. This may require changing the boot order in your BIOS settings.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows. When prompted, choose the option to perform a custom installation and format the primary drive to ensure a clean install.
Expert Tip: Before proceeding with a reset or reinstall, it’s crucial to back up important data to an external drive or cloud storage. Additionally, ensure you have access to necessary drivers and installation files for essential applications, as these will need to be reinstalled after the process.
Additional Resources
For a visual guide on resetting or reinstalling Windows, you might find the following video helpful:
By carefully following these steps, you can effectively reset or reinstall Windows, providing a fresh environment to resolve persistent issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What should I do if my computer frequently crashes or freezes?
- Frequent crashes or freezes can be caused by various factors, including hardware issues, software conflicts, or malware infections. Start by checking for hardware problems, such as overheating or faulty components. Ensure your system is free from malware by running a comprehensive scan. If the issue persists, consider performing a clean boot to identify and isolate problematic startup programs or services.
- How can I identify which startup programs are causing system slowdowns?
-
To identify problematic startup programs, you can use the System Configuration utility (msconfig). Here’s how:
- Press Win + R, type
msconfig
, and press Enter. - Navigate to the Startup tab.
- Disable all startup items and restart your computer.
- If the issue is resolved, re-enable startup items one at a time, restarting after each, to identify the culprit.
- Press Win + R, type
- Is it safe to reset or reinstall Windows, and will it erase my data?
- Resetting or reinstalling Windows can resolve persistent issues, but it may result in data loss. Before proceeding, back up important files to an external drive or cloud storage. During the reset process, you may have the option to keep personal files, but it’s always prudent to have a backup. For a more thorough approach, a clean installation will remove all data and applications, providing a fresh start.
- How can I check if my computer is overheating?
-
Overheating can cause performance issues and hardware damage. To monitor your system’s temperature:
- Use hardware monitoring tools to check CPU and GPU temperatures.
- Ensure that fans are functioning properly and that air vents are unobstructed.
- Clean out dust from inside the case to improve airflow.
- What is a clean boot, and when should I perform one?
-
A clean boot starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs, helping to identify software conflicts. It’s useful when troubleshooting issues like software conflicts or performance problems. To perform a clean boot:
- Press Win + R, type
msconfig
, and press Enter. - In the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services and then click Disable all.
- In the Startup tab, click Open Task Manager and disable all startup items.
- Close Task Manager, click OK in the System Configuration window, and restart your computer.
- Press Win + R, type