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For a routine audio, Bluetooth, printer, camera, network, or Windows Update problem, start with the matching troubleshooter in the Windows Get Help app. If that guided fix does not solve the issue, choose the next step by symptom: repair an app in Settings, use DISM and System File Checker for suspected damaged Windows files, or open Startup Repair when Windows will not start. Back up important files before recovery options that could affect them.
How to run a troubleshooter in Windows
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Open the Get Help app from the Start menu.
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Search for the problem or the relevant troubleshooter, such as audio, Bluetooth, camera, network and internet, printers, or Windows Update.
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Follow the on-screen prompts. Get Help reports its findings and suggests remedies; apply the relevant suggestion, then check whether the original problem is resolved.
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Microsoft’s current troubleshooting route is Get Help. Its supported list also includes troubleshooters for Background Intelligent Transfer Service, program compatibility, video playback, and Windows Media Player. The Microsoft Support and Recovery Assistant has been replaced by troubleshooters integrated into Get Help. Microsoft’s Get Help troubleshooter guide explains the current approach.
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Choose the next fix based on the symptom
An app is malfunctioning
Windows may offer app-specific Repair or Reset controls in Settings. Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps, select the app’s menu, and choose Advanced options if available. Try Repair first. If it is unavailable or does not help, consider Reset; the controls vary by app, and Reset can remove app data or settings. Microsoft’s app repair and reset guidance describes the options.
Windows runs, but system files may be damaged
Use command-line repair only when the symptoms point to possible Windows system-file corruption, not as a general first response to every slow or freezing PC. Microsoft directs users to run DISM before System File Checker.
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Search Start for Command Prompt, right-click it, and choose Run as administrator.
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Run
DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealthand wait for it to finish. By default, DISM uses Windows Update as its source for repair files. -
Then run
sfc /scannowand let System File Checker complete its scan and repair attempt. -
Restart Windows if prompted, then check whether the issue remains.
If Windows Update cannot provide the files DISM needs, Microsoft documents alternate source syntax. Follow its DISM and System File Checker instructions rather than guessing a source path.
Windows will not start
Use Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) and try Startup Repair:
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Enter WinRE. If Windows does not start, it may open automatically after repeated startup failures; otherwise, use the recovery method available for your PC.
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Select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Repair.
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Choose the Windows installation and follow the prompts. If the device is encrypted, have its BitLocker recovery key available.
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Startup Repair scans for common boot problems, including missing or damaged system files, corrupted boot configuration data, a damaged master boot record, incompatible drivers, and registry errors. It attempts a repair; it cannot guarantee that every startup problem will be fixed. See Microsoft’s Startup Repair instructions and WinRE guidance.
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A recent update may have caused the issue
If the problem began after an update, uninstalling that update may be an option. The available route depends on whether Windows starts and on the installed Windows version. Microsoft’s Windows recovery options explains where to look in Windows or WinRE.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Escalate carefully if the first repair does not work
Some recovery choices can change apps, settings, or files. Back up important files before taking a recovery action that may affect them. Start with the least disruptive option available on your PC and move to more disruptive choices only if needed.
- Built-in troubleshooters: Guided checks for specific problems; start with the relevant Get Help option.
- Uninstall an update: May help when a recent update appears to be the cause; the route depends on whether Windows starts.
- Restore options: Availability and effect depend on the recovery option and the PC’s configuration.
- Reset this PC: Depending on the selection, Windows may keep personal files or remove everything. Apps and settings can be affected, so read the choice presented before proceeding.
- Reinstall Windows: Some Windows 11 versions offer a reinstall option. Availability and effects vary by version.
Recovery options are not identical on every PC. Check Microsoft’s recovery options guide for the installed Windows version. A manufacturer’s recovery media may include hardware-specific drivers and factory apps that generic Microsoft installation media may not include; consult the PC maker’s official support channel for device-specific recovery instructions.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →What Windows 10 users should know
Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025. Microsoft says Windows 10 PCs will continue to work, but it no longer provides free Windows Update software updates, technical assistance, or security fixes under that ended support lifecycle. Check Microsoft’s Windows 10 support information for current details. Recovery steps and available options can still vary by the version installed on a particular PC.
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