Windows 10: discover the simple command to fix your PC

Is your Windows 10 operating system acting up ? If so, you’re not alone. Millions of users have experienced problems with Windows 10 at some point or another. Fortunately, the good news is that there are several ways to repair your PC and get it back on track without losing your valuable data. This post explores how to leverage simple commands and built-in features to troubleshoot and fix common issues in Windows 10.

Why should you repair Windows 10 ?

The importance of regular system maintenance

Maintaining the health of your Windows 10 system is essential for a smooth computing experience. Regular maintenance helps identify and fix potential issues before they escalate into substantial problems, saving you time and frustration in the long run.

Common issues affecting Windows 10 performance

• Corrupted system files: If critical system files become damaged or corrupted, this can cause various problems including frequent crashes, slow performance, and error messages.
• Inadequate hardware resources: Lack of sufficient storage space or memory can severely impact your computer’s speed and efficiency.
• Virus or malware infections: These malicious programs could compromise the normal functioning of your operating system, leading to data loss or theft.

Without further ado, let’s delve into how to repair these common issues using several tools embedded within Windows 10.

Initial troubleshooting: verifying system file integrity with SFC

What is SFC ?

SFC (System File Checker) is a built-in utility in Windows that checks for damaged or missing system files. If any corrupt files are found, sFC automatically replaces them with the correct versions.

How to use SFC

To use this tool, you need to open the command prompt and type ‘sfc /scannow‘. The analysis and repair process can take some time, so it’s best to be patient. If any integrity violations are found, they will be displayed in the command prompt window.

Now that we’ve covered how to verify system file integrity let’s explore how you can perform a quick repair using the command prompt.

Using the command prompt for quick repairs

Leveraging DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management)

DISM is another built-in tool that plays an essential role in maintaining and repairing your Windows 10 installation. This utility can be used from the command prompt, with several commands available for different tasks such as repairing corrupted files and managing Windows images.

Running DISM commands

To use DISM, you need to open a command prompt as an administrator, then type ‘DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth’. This process might take a while, but once complete, dISM should have resolved any issues preventing SFC from working correctly.

Let’s move on now to discuss how to employ startup repair when faced with certain Windows 10 problems.

The startup repair feature: how and when to use it

The function of Startup Repair

Startup Repair is a Windows recovery tool designed to fix certain system problems that might prevent Windows from starting. It scans your computer for the problem and then tries to fix it so your computer can start correctly.

Accessing Startup Repair

You can access Startup Repair from the Advanced Startup options screen. To do this, navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery, then under ‘Advanced startup’, click ‘Restart now’. After your PC restarts to the Choose an option screen, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Repair.

The subsequent sections will delve into more advanced repair methods if none of the above solutions prove successful.

Restoring your PC from a system restore point

The role of System Restore Points

A System Restore Point is like a snapshot of your computer’s files and settings at a specific point in time. If something goes wrong with your system (e.g., after installing an update or a new program), you can use a restore point to roll back your computer to its previous state.

How to perform a System Restore

To perform a System Restore, go to the Control Panel and choose ‘System’. Click on ‘System Protection’ and then on ‘System Restore…’. Follow the instructions outlined in the wizard to complete the process.

In some scenarios, however, you may need to consider resetting or updating Windows 10.

Updating or resetting Windows 10 without losing data

Why update or reset ?

If you are dealing with persistent issues that cannot be resolved through other means, updating or resetting Windows 10 might be necessary. An update can bring crucial bug fixes and improvements while a reset allows for an entirely fresh start while keeping personal files intact.

The process of updating/resetting

To update Windows 10, navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and click on “Check for updates”. To reset your PC while keeping your files intact, go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery and under “Reset this PC”, click “Get started”

In cases where these methods cannot resolve the issues, you may need to consider reinstallation or restoration of your operating system.

Reinstalling or restoring Windows 10 using installation media

When to consider reinstallation/restoration

If none of the above solutions work, a complete reinstallation or restoration might be your best bet. This step is usually considered as a last resort because it can lead to permanent data loss if not performed correctly.

Using installation media for the process

To execute this operation, you’ll need an external storage device like a USB drive that contains the Windows 10 installation files. Make sure to back up all your important files before proceeding with this method.

Lastly, let’s explore what to do when even automatic repair fails.

Advanced solutions: when the automatic repair fails

The Safe Mode option

If automatic repair fails to fix your computer issues, booting in safe mode could be another viable alternative. Safe Mode is a basic state of Windows that uses limited files and drivers but allows you to perform certain troubleshooting steps.

Taking professional help into consideration

In some severe cases, seeking professional assistance might be necessary. Expert technicians have specialized tools and extensive experience dealing with complex computer problems. They can provide remote assistance or guide you through advanced troubleshooting steps over the phone.

We’ve walked through various methods from quick fixes like running SFC scan and utilizing command prompt for repairs, to more intensive solutions such as performing a system restore or reinstalling the operating system entirely. Remember always to backup your data before undertaking any major repair actions on your PC. Windows 10 has numerous built-in tools that can help repair your system and get it functioning optimally again. Use them wisely, and you’ll be able to keep your computer running smoothly for years to come.