How to Use PowerShell to Fix Common Windows Problems

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.