Fix Error Messages Using Manual And Automated Solutions
Posted by: Brad
Tags: computer, fix error, fix errors, fix windows, how to fix errors, notebook, pc errors, virus
The two main ways to fix error messages on Windows computers is through manual troubleshooting and by using software to automate the process. This article looks at some best practices for both approaches.
Manual Repairs
Everybody likes to attempt the PC repairs for themselves and this can be effective if your research is done correctly:
- To fix error messages relating the operating system, you should use the Microsoft support site as your primary resource for workarounds and fixes.
- Application errors should be investigated on the software producer’s website (known issues, patches, workarounds and customer support tickets). Independent user forums can be a good source of information for new products but the information/fixes may be unverified so proceed carefully with any solutions.
- Simply updating your software can help fix errors. Keeping the Windows update service running to get the latest drivers and security fixes will ensure your less open to viruses.
- Run an anti-virus scan to check for rogue code/files that could be cause PC errors.
Automating The Repair Process
Many people turn to specialized software to fix error messages, especially when their own research has highlighted system faults (which generally should be fixed indirectly by using software). These tools broadly fall into two domains:
- PC Maintenance Software: These applications scan your entire computer (files, registry, drivers) for faults, report back on issues and run the repairs. The better tools can download and install healthy files for any faults that are found.
- Registry cleaners: These tools cover less ground than PC maintenance software and only focus on the Windows registry file.
The best practice is to back up your data before using these tools. The registry file should be versioned prior to it being altered. If your research did not highlight if the root issue lay within the registry then use PC maintenance software to make a broader scan – these tools generally provide a free scan report so you only need a license in order to let the application automate repairs.