How to Use PowerShell to Fix Common Windows Problems

PowerShell is a powerful tool that can help you diagnose and fix various Windows issues. Below is a step-by-step guide to using PowerShell for troubleshooting and maintenance, explained in simple terms.

Step 1: Open PowerShell as Administrator

To run commands that modify system settings, you need to open PowerShell with administrative privileges.

Press Windows + X and select Windows PowerShell (Admin) or Terminal (Admin).
If prompted by User Account Control (UAC), click Yes.

Why this matters: Running PowerShell as an administrator ensures you have the necessary permissions to execute system-level commands.

Step 2: Check System Health with Built-In Tools

PowerShell can run tools to scan and repair corrupted system files.

Use the System File Checker (SFC) to scan and fix corrupted system files.
Use the Deployment Imaging Service and Management (DISM) tool to repair the Windows image and resolve deeper issues.

Why this matters: These tools ensure your system files are intact and functioning correctly.

Step 3: Reset Windows Update Components

If you’re having trouble with Windows updates, PowerShell can help reset the update components.

Stop the services related to Windows updates.
Rename the folders where update files are stored to clear out corrupted data.
Restart the update services and check for updates again.

Why this matters: Resetting update components resolves issues caused by corrupted update files.

Step 4: Check and Repair Disk Errors

Disk errors can cause performance issues or data loss. PowerShell can run a tool to check and repair your disk.

Use the Check Disk (CHKDSK) utility to scan for and fix disk errors. You may need to restart your computer for the scan to complete.

Why this matters: Fixing disk errors ensures your storage drive is functioning properly.

Step 5: Manage Windows Services

Some issues are caused by misconfigured or stopped services. PowerShell can help you manage these services.

List all services to see which ones are running or stopped.
Start or stop specific services as needed.
Set services to start automatically when your computer boots up.

Why this matters: Managing services ensures critical system processes are running as expected.

Step 6: Uninstall Problematic Updates

If a recent update is causing issues, PowerShell can help you remove it.

List all installed updates to identify the problematic one.
Uninstall the specific update using its unique identifier (KB number).

Why this matters: Removing problematic updates can resolve issues caused by compatibility or bugs.

Step 7: Create a System Restore Point

System Restore Points allow you to revert your system to a previous state. PowerShell can create one for you.

Use a simple command to create a manual restore point with a description of your choice.

Why this matters: Restore Points provide a safety net if something goes wrong after making system changes.

Step 8: Export and Analyze Event Logs

Event logs can help diagnose system issues. PowerShell can export these logs for review.

Export system logs to a file that you can open and analyze.
Look for errors or warnings that might explain the issue you’re facing.

Why this matters: Event logs provide detailed information about system errors and warnings.

By following these steps, you can use PowerShell to diagnose and resolve common Windows issues effectively. If you’re unsure about a specific task, consult Microsoft’s documentation or seek professional assistance.