3.1: Common Windows OS Problems

BSOD/Shutdowns

Caused by bad hardware, drivers, or apps; fix with Safe Mode, restore tools, reseating hardware, or diagnostics.

Sluggish Performance

Check CPU/disk in Task Manager, update Windows, free space, disable power saving, and scan for malware.

Boot Errors

Caused by missing OS or bad boot loader; fix with Startup Repair or rebuilding BCD.

Startup Repair Issues

Fix missing NTLDR, missing OS, or Safe Mode loops by repairing boot config or reinstalling loader.

Device Startup Failures

Check Device Manager/Event Viewer; remove bad drivers; fix service dependencies or reinstall app.

App Crashes

Check Event Log/Reliability Monitor; reinstall or repair application.

Low Memory Warnings

Close heavy apps, increase virtual memory, or upgrade RAM.

USB Resource Warnings

Too many device endpoints; move device, match USB version, or use higher-capacity controller.

System Instability

Caused by software errors or failing hardware; run diagnostics, SFC, and malware scans.

Slow Profile Load

Often due to roaming profiles, domain controller latency, or wrong DC selection.

Time Drift

Normal clock inaccuracy; fix with automatic time sync and correct time zone.

Reboot

Clears memory leaks, resets apps, and solves many common issues.

Restart Services

Use Task Manager to restart background services that leak resources or crash.

App Reinstall/Update

Fix corrupted files or configs with repair, reset, or reinstall options.

Verify Requirements

Check hardware/software meets app or OS requirements; use System Information.

Add Resources

Monitor usage; upgrade CPU, RAM, or storage if needed.

System File Checker

Use sfc to verify and repair system files.

Windows Restore

Revert system to earlier restore point without deleting user data.

Reimage OS

Reload/reset Windows using prebuilt images to fix persistent problems.

Update/Patch

Apply Windows and app updates to fix bugs and vulnerabilities.

Rollback Updates

Uninstall recent updates from Windows Update history.

Rebuild Profiles

Delete corrupted user profile and let Windows recreate it.

Delete Profiles

Save user files, back up registry entry, then remove profile for a clean rebuild.

Reconstruct Profiles

Create new profile, copy needed files from old one, avoid transferring corruption.