In this post, we are going to explain some methods to fix Windows problems without resetting the PC. In each of the sections, we talk about certain errors that many users face. But more importantly, we will look at possible solutions for them. Read on to learn how to fix Windows issues without having to reset your computer.
My hard drive is failing
If you are experiencing issues with your hard drive, don’t worry. There are some solutions that might help you fix the failure. And best of all, without having to resort to a full operating system restore.
What is the solution? Follow these steps to try to solve the problem:
- Check cables and connections. Make sure that the power and data cables are securely connected to both the hard drive and the motherboard. Sometimes a loose connection can cause recognition issues and disk malfunction.
- Error scanning. Windows 11 comes with a built-in tool called Error Checking that can identify and repair hard disk issues. You will find it in the Drive Properties section, accessible from File Explorer. In the pop-up dialog, click on Tools and then on Check.
- Free up space on the hard disk. Sometimes a lack of disk space can cause performance problems. Uninstall unnecessary programs. Also, delete temporary files and empty the recycle garbage can to free up disk space.
- Update drivers and firmware. Outdated software could be behind your issues. We recommend that you visit your hard drive and motherboard manufacturer’s website. Once there, check for driver and firmware updates.
- Use the Optimize Drives tool. Windows offers a drive optimization tool that helps improve disk speed and performance. It is available in the Properties dialog of each drive.
- Run the System File Checker. This tool searches for and repairs corrupt system files that could be causing hard disk issues. Open a CMD window with administrator privileges and launch the sfc /scannow command.
- Use a third-party program to check the status of the disk. There are third-party tools that can provide more detailed information about the health of your hard drive. Some examples are CrystalDiskInfo or HD Tune.
Computer storage is full
Sometimes the problem is that your computer’s storage is full. Also, you can correct this problem without resetting Windows.
What is the solution? Here are some ideas:
- Delete unnecessary files and programs.
- Empty the recycle garbage can.
- Use the Windows disk space freeing tool.
- Transfer files to an external disk or in the cloud.
- Uninstall applications that you do not use.
- Delete temporary files and browser cache.
- Compress large files.
An application has stopped working
Just because an application is not working properly does not mean that you should completely restore your computer. What is the solution? You should know these ideas to recover the correct functioning of your programs:
- Restart the application. Close the application completely and reopen it. Sometimes temporary difficulties can be resolved with a restart.
- Check for updates. Make sure the application is up-to-date.
- Check the Internet connection. Certain applications may require a stable connection.
- Repair or reset the application. Reset the application if you installed it from the Microsoft Store.
- Reinstall the application. This is especially recommended if the problem is in the current installation files.
- Update Windows. Make sure you have the latest version of Windows 11 installed. Indeed, some updates may fix compatibility issues with certain applications.
- Make sure you meet the system requirements. Certain applications may have specific hardware or software requirements.
Windows does not download updates
Another common issue is Windows not downloading updates. Before you decide to completely restore your system, take note of the following suggestions.
What is the solution? Take a look at these:
- Check your Internet connection.
- If you are connected via VPN, disable this connection.
- Restart your PC.
- Check that the Windows Update service is running.
- Delete the folder SoftwareDistribution located in the folder C:Windows.
- Force the system to check for pending updates manually.
- Temporarily disable the antivirus or firewall.
System does not start
What if the computer won’t boot? Before you completely reset it with a bootable USB, it’s worth taking a look at some possible solutions.
What is the solution? Try the following:
- Verify that it is connected to a power source.
- Restart the PC and check if the problem persists.
- Boot in safe mode to rule out software conflicts.
- Verify that the hard disk is recognized in the BIOS.
- Use the boot repair tool.
- Try to restore the system to an earlier point.
- Perform a clean boot to identify boot conflicts.
Okay, so we have seen how to fix Windows errors without having to reset it. See you soon!
