5 Built-in Tools to Use When Troubleshooting Windows Problems

5 Built-in Tools to Use When Troubleshooting Windows Problems

Learn about five powerful built-in Windows tools—Event Viewer, Task Manager, Resource Monitor, Command Prompt, and PowerShell—that help troubleshoot and fix system issues with ease.

Windows troubleshooting, Windows 11, PC maintenance, Task Manager, PowerShell, Command Prompt, Event Viewer, Resource Monitor, fix Windows issues

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Windows has become more stable in recent years, especially with Windows 11, which offers a smooth and safe upgrade process. But like any operating system, issues can still arise. Fortunately, Microsoft includes several built-in troubleshooting tools that make diagnosing and resolving problems easier than ever. Here are five essential tools you should know about.

1. Event Viewer – Your System’s Logbook

Event Viewer logs everything that happens in Windows, from software installations to critical errors. If your system crashes, freezes, or reboots unexpectedly, Event Viewer can help pinpoint the cause.

• Tracks system events, errors, and warnings
• Helps identify hardware and driver failures
• Useful for diagnosing blue screen (BSOD) errors

To open Event Viewer, press Windows + X and select Event Viewer.

2. Task Manager – Monitor Running Processes

Task Manager is one of the most widely used Windows tools, offering real-time monitoring of apps and background processes. If your computer is slow or unresponsive, this tool helps identify resource-heavy tasks.

• Displays CPU, memory, disk, and network usage
• Lets you force-close unresponsive apps
• Provides advanced details like GPU and power usage

To open Task Manager, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc.

3. Resource Monitor – Deep Dive Into System Performance

Resource Monitor offers even more detailed insights than Task Manager, allowing you to track CPU, memory, disk, and network activity at a granular level.

• Shows which processes are using the most resources
• Helps diagnose slow performance and network issues
• Displays disk activity per process

To open Resource Monitor, search for Resource Monitor in the Windows Start menu.

4. Command Prompt – The Classic Troubleshooting Tool

Command Prompt (CMD) is a command-line tool that allows users to execute commands to fix system errors.

• Run sfc /scannow to check and repair system files
• Use chkdsk to scan and fix disk errors
• Diagnose network issues with ipconfig /flushdns

To open Command Prompt, press Windows + R, type cmd, and hit Enter.

5. PowerShell – Advanced Troubleshooting and Automation

PowerShell is an upgraded version of Command Prompt with more powerful scripting capabilities. It’s particularly useful for IT professionals and advanced users.

• Automates system management tasks
• Runs complex scripts to troubleshoot errors
• Manages updates and settings across multiple devices

To open PowerShell, search for Windows PowerShell in the Start menu.

Final Thoughts: Fix Windows Issues with Built-in Tools

Windows provides robust tools to troubleshoot and fix common system issues without needing third-party software. Whether you're dealing with slow performance, crashes, or connectivity problems, these five tools—Event Viewer, Task Manager, Resource Monitor, Command Prompt, and PowerShell—can help you get your system back on track.

Looking for more tips? Check out these 6 Task Manager columns that can help you troubleshoot even further.