How to Troubleshoot Windows 10: A Guide for Beginners and Experts

Windows 10 is the most popular operating system in the world, but it is not without its problems. Sometimes, you may encounter issues with updates, performance, drivers, apps, or settings that prevent you from using your PC smoothly. Fortunately, Windows 10 offers a variety of tools and techniques that can help you troubleshoot and fix these problems. In this blog post, I will share with you some of the most common Windows 10 problems and how to solve them using built-in troubleshooters, diagnostic tools, command-line utilities, and other methods. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you will find something useful in this guide.

Problem: Not enough space for updates

One of the first problems you may face when using Windows 10 is not having enough space to install the latest updates. Updates are essential for keeping your PC secure and up to date, but they also require a certain amount of free space on your system drive. If you run out of space, you may see an error message like “Windows needs more space” or “Free up space to install the latest Windows update”.

Solution: Use Storage Sense or Disk Cleanup

To free up some space on your system drive, you can use the Storage Sense feature or the Disk Cleanup tool. Both of these tools can help you delete temporary files, old downloads, recycle bin items, and other unnecessary data that may be taking up space.

• To use Storage Sense, Follow these steps:
• Open Settings and go to System > Storage.
• Turn on Storage Sense if it is not already on.
• Click on Configure Storage Sense or run it now.

Adjust the settings according to your preferences. You can choose how often Storage Sense runs, how long it keeps files in the recycle bin or the downloads folder, and whether it deletes previous versions of Windows.

• Click on Clean Now to start the process.
• To use Disk Cleanup, follow these steps:
• Open File Explorer and right-click on your system drive (usually C:).
• Select Properties and click on Disk Cleanup.

Wait for the tool to scan your drive and show you how much space you can free up.

Check the boxes next to the items you want to delete and click OK.

You can also click on Clean up system files to delete more data, such as Windows Update files, Windows installation files, or device driver packages.

also read - How to Record Your Screen on Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide (2023)

Problem: Automatic updates causing errors

Another common problem with Windows 10 is that automatic updates may cause errors or issues on your PC. Sometimes, updates may fail to install properly, cause compatibility problems with your hardware or software, or even crash your system. These issues can be frustrating and time-consuming to fix.

Solution: Use Windows Update Troubleshooter or DISM

If you encounter any problems with Windows Update, you can try using the Windows Update Troubleshooter or the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool. Both of these tools can help you diagnose and repair update issues.

To use the Windows Update Troubleshooter, follow these steps:

• Open Settings and go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
• Click on Additional Troubleshooters and select Windows Update.
• Click on Run the Troubleshooter and follow the instructions on the screen.
• The troubleshooter will try to detect and fix any problems with Windows Update.
• To use DISM, follow these steps:
• Open Command Prompt as an administrator. You can do this by typing cmd in the search bar and right-clicking on Command Prompt > Run as administrator.
• Type the following command and press Enter:
• dism /online /cleanup-image /restore health
• Wait for the process to complete. It may take some time depending on your system.
• The tool will scan and repair any corrupted system files that may affect Windows Update.

Problem: Bluetooth isn’t working

Bluetooth is a wireless technology that allows you to connect various devices to your PC, such as headphones, speakers, keyboards, mice, or phones. However, sometimes Bluetooth may not work properly on Windows 10. You may not be able to pair your devices, see them in the settings, or use them at all.

Solution: Use Bluetooth Troubleshooter or Update Drivers

If you have any problems with Bluetooth on Windows 10, you can try using the Bluetooth Troubleshooter or updating your Bluetooth drivers. Both of these methods can help you resolve common Bluetooth issues.

To use the Bluetooth Troubleshooter, follow these steps:

• Open Settings and go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
• Click on Additional Troubleshooters and select Bluetooth.
• Click on Run the Troubleshooter and follow the instructions on the screen.
• The troubleshooter will try to detect and fix any problems with Bluetooth.
• To update your Bluetooth drivers, follow these steps:
• Open Device Manager by typing devmgmt.msc in the search bar and pressing Enter.
• Expand the Bluetooth category and right-click on your Bluetooth device.
• Select Update driver and choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
• Wait for the process to complete and restart your PC if prompted.

Alternatively, you can also download the latest drivers from your device manufacturer’s website and install them manually.

Problem: Cortana isn’t working

Cortana is a virtual assistant that can help you with various tasks on Windows 10, such as searching the web, setting reminders, checking the weather, or controlling your smart home devices. However, sometimes Cortana may not work as expected on Windows 10. You may not be able to hear Cortana, use voice commands, or access Cortana’s settings.

Solution: Use Cortana Troubleshooter or Reset Cortana

If you have any problems with Cortana on Windows 10, you can try using the Cortana Troubleshooter or resetting Cortana. Both of these options can help you fix common Cortana issues.

To use the Cortana Troubleshooter, follow these steps:

• Open Settings and go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
• Click on Additional Troubleshooters and select Cortana.
• Click on Run the Troubleshooter and follow the instructions on the screen.
• The troubleshooter will try to detect and fix any problems with Cortana.
• To reset Cortana, follow these steps:
• Open Settings and go to Apps > Apps & features.
• Find Cortana in the list and click on it.
• Click on Advanced options and scroll down to Reset.
• Click on Reset and confirm your choice.

This will delete Cortana’s data and settings and restore it to its default state.

Problem: Can’t open Windows Store or can’t download apps

Windows Store is the official app store for Windows 10, where you can find and download various apps and games for your PC. However, sometimes Windows Store may not work properly on Windows 10. You may not be able to open Windows Store, sign in with your Microsoft account, or download or update apps.

Solution: Use Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter or Reset Windows Store

If you have any problems with the Windows Store or its apps on Windows 10, you can try using the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter or resetting the Windows Store. Both of these solutions can help you fix common Windows Store issues.

To use the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter, follow these steps:

• Open Settings and go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
• Click on Additional Troubleshooters and select Windows Store Apps.
• Click on Run the Troubleshooter and follow the instructions on the screen.
• The troubleshooter will try to detect and fix any problems with Windows Store or its apps.
• To reset the Windows Store, follow these steps:
• Open Command Prompt as an administrator. You can do this by typing cmd in the search bar and right-clicking on Command Prompt > Run as administrator.
• Type the following command and press Enter:
• wsreset.exe

Wait for the process to complete. It may take a few minutes depending on your system.

The tool will clear the cache and reset the settings of Windows Store.

Problem: Sound not working

Sound is an important part of using your PC, whether you are listening to music, watching videos, playing games, or making calls. However, sometimes sound may not work properly on Windows 10. You may not hear any sound at all, hear distorted or crackling sounds, or have problems with your microphone.

Solution: Use Playing Audio Troubleshooter or Update Drivers

If you have any problems with sound on Windows 10, you can try using the Playing Audio Troubleshooter or updating your sound drivers. Both of these methods can help you fix common sound issues.

To use the Playing Audio Troubleshooter, follow these steps:

• Open Settings and go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
• Click on Additional Troubleshooters and select Playing Audio.
• Click on Run the Troubleshooter and follow the instructions on the screen.
• The troubleshooter will try to detect and fix any problems with sound.
• To update your sound drivers, follow these steps:
• Open Device Manager by typing devmgmt.msc in the search bar and pressing Enter.
• Expand the Sound, video, and game controllers category and right-click on your sound device.
• Select Update driver and choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
• Wait for the process to complete and restart your PC if prompted.

Alternatively, you can also download the latest drivers from your device manufacturer’s website and install them manually.

Problem: Slow performance

One of the most annoying problems with Windows 10 is slow performance. Your PC may take a long time to boot up, launch apps, open files, or switch between tasks. This can affect your productivity and enjoyment of using your PC.

Solution: Use Performance Monitor or Optimize Drives

If you have any problems with performance on Windows 10, you can try using the Performance Monitor or optimizing your drives. Both of these

Conclusion:  Troubleshooting Windows 10 doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, this guide provides you with practical solutions to common problems. From freeing up space for updates to fixing Bluetooth issues, the built-in tools and techniques in Windows 10 can help you keep your PC running smoothly. Remember, the key to successful troubleshooting is patience and persistence. Happy troubleshooting!

Source -

Microsoft Support: -[https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/use-a-fix-it-tool-with-windows-10-cc3cb85b-91d7-7e56-8ce1-db50b4d18d0b]

Windows Blogs: - [https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/]

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