Computer troubleshooting can be tricky business. While some experience helps you diagnose issues, sometimes it can take hours to get to the root of the problem.

When troubleshooting, it's thus wise to always try the simplest steps first to avoid spending too much time on an issue. To that end, you should know about the built-in troubleshooters in Windows 10 and what they can fix.

Windows 10's Built-In Troubleshooters

Windows-10-Troubleshooters

To access these troubleshooters, head to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot. You'll see a list of troubleshooters divided into two sections: Get up and running and Find and fix other problems.

The first contains troubleshooters for the most common and important areas, while the others are secondary. While they won't always fix your problems, they're worth a try.

Let's take a quick look at some of the most useful of these and when to use them:

Get Up and Running:

  • Internet Connections: Useful if you can't get online or have a "Connected, no internet" message. Also see our network troubleshooting steps.
  • Playing Audio: Come here if you can't hear anything from your PC.
  • Printer: Can't add a printer? Have a job stuck in the queue? Give this a try.
  • Windows Update: If Windows Update fails for some reason, run this troubleshooter.

Find and Fix Other Problems:

  • Blue Screen: If you receive a blue screen of death, try this troubleshooter (and our BSoD troubleshooting tips).
  • Hardware and Devices: If you can't add a new piece of hardware or it won't respond properly, use this.
  • Keyboard: This can fix unexpected keyboard behavior.
  • Power: Try this tool to see what PC settings you can change for better battery life.
  • Program Compatibility Troubleshooter: This can help you get programs designed for older versions of Windows working properly.
  • Search and Indexing: Windows search takes forever or won't find the right results? Run through this troubleshooter.

For more help, check out our Windows troubleshooting guide for dummies.