How to troubleshoot PC hardware and performance? When you have a hardware issue that causes your PC to misbehave, you may want to search and find an updated driver. It might resolve the problems and stabilize your machine. However, before you do that, it is wise to use built-in troubleshooting tools in Windows 10. In today’s article, we will discuss some common issues and solutions. The purpose is to help you troubleshoot PC hardware and performance.

Troubleshoot PC Hardware and Performance

Open the troubleshooting applet from Windows’ control panel. That way, you can get help on hardware, programs, and drivers. Each of the items in the control panel provides a troubleshooting wizard. It automatically searches for, detects, and fixes issues. The Control Panel applet in Windows 10 offers the following categories or groups:

Programs

According to KVS Computers, if you want to troubleshoot PC hardware and performance, start with programs. Launch the program compatibility wizards. It allows you to apply settings to programs. For instance, it is as though these programs were running in earlier Windows versions.

For example, you can run a Windows 7 program under Windows 10 by configuring its compatibility and settings for Windows 7. The group also includes applications or items for troubleshooting internet explorer, media play, and printers.

Hardware and Sound

Use the hardware and sound to scan for changes in hardware. You can also troubleshoot problems with general devices. These include network adapters, audio devices, printers, etc. Remember, using the hardware and sound item is an excellent way to troubleshoot PC hardware and performance.

Network and Internet

Troubleshoot issues connecting to the internet. You can also assess shared files and folders on the local area network. Besides, this group allows you to troubleshoot Home Group, incoming network connections, and Direct Access.

Appearance and Personalization

According to KVS Computers’ experts, problems with appearance are often due to hardware problems, such as graphics card errors or improper settings. The appearance and personalization section enables you to troubleshoot errors with Windows desktop visual effects and other relevant issues.

System and Security

How to troubleshoot PC hardware and performance? The system and security section allows you to troubleshoot issues with different components. These include Windows updates, modify power settings, and check for computer performance problems.

In addition, you can run maintenance tasks, such as cleaning up unused files. Besides, you can check search and indexing issues. At the same time, you can adjust performance settings.

Use the Device Manager

Using the device manager is an effective way to troubleshoot PC hardware and performance. Click the Device Manager to open the window. You can also click the Start button and then right-click Computer. Next, choose properties and then click the Device Manager on the left side of the screen.

When you open the Device Manager Window, right-click the device name that causes problems. Next, choose properties. If the device shows an error, use that information to start troubleshooting. For instance, if Device Manager indicates no driver “installed,” try to install or reinstall the device’s driver.

Use the Driver tab’s options if needed. That way, you can reinstall the drivers for the hardware device. Moreover, you can also disable the device and mitigate potential conflicts with other hardware components.

Use the resources tab to check for a “conflict message.” You can use the Conflicting Device List to resolve problems. Make sure you reassign resources to the conflicting devices. On the other hand, you can disable one of the devices to resolve the issue. Remember, not all hardware components have a resource tab.

Sometimes, you make hardware changes, but Windows does not notice the change. In that case, open Device Manager and choose “Scan for Hardware Changes.” The purpose is to ensure Windows rescan the entire system. For instance, if you have an external modem turned off when you turn on the PC, rescanning may cause Windows to redetect the modem.

Dealing with Error Messages

How to troubleshoot PC hardware and performance, especially “error messages?” Error messages come in different forms. For example, these come in simple warnings like “the blue screen of death”. It causes your PC to stop dead in its tracks.

On the other hand, a more serious error comes in forms like an error number: it is often a hexadecimal number with a format “0x00000xxx.” Likewise, another form in which the error comes is the symbolic error name.

These show in uppercase with underlines between words. For example, “PAGE_FAULT_IN_NONPAGED_AREA.” Moreover, if a device driver has caused the issue, you will see a filename with a “.sys” extension.

Some errors have their built-in troubleshooting advice, while others have a “Help” button. Use the information to learn about the cause of the problem. If you fail to manage or resolve the error, you can bring your PC to KVS Computers.

Our qualified, experienced, and skilled experts will troubleshoot PC hardware and performance and evaluate error messages to resolve them. That way, you can run your PC efficiently and reliably.

Performing a Clean Boot

Even a tiny hardware error can lead to harsh consequences. For example, it can suddenly shut down your PC and make it challenging to start the system. Clean booting helps with software issues that prevent PC from starting normally or cause frequent errors.

Remember, if you don’t have enough knowledge of the “boot” system, it is wise to bring your PC to KVS Computers. We can troubleshoot PC hardware and performance and optimize the booting process. Anyway, follow the steps given below to perform a clean boot.

• Close all open programs
• Save work in progress
• Enter MSConfig to open system configuration
• Choose selective startup on the “General” tab
• Clear the “Load Startup” checkbox
• Click the service tab
• Choose “Hide All Microsoft Services”
• Now, Click the “Disable All” button
• Click “OK” and restart to reboot your PC

Remember, a clean boot is different from a clean installation. During a clean boot, you will temporarily lose some functionality. However, once you perform a normal startup, you will regain access to all programs, apps, documents, and full functionality.

Use the System Recovery Options

The System Recovery Options is an excellent way to troubleshoot PC hardware and performance. Keep in mind that this option is reliable for resolving advanced issues. These include:

• Repairing an existing Windows 10 installation
• Troubleshooting startup issues
• Restoring your PC
• Using Memory Diagnostic Tool
• Getting to a Command Prompt

According to KVS Computers, only experienced PC users should use this method. If you don’t know how to use a command prompt, avoid performing any tasks. In that case, it is better to contact KVS Computers and discuss the issue.

Anyway, enable the driver as a boot device in the BIOS. The purpose is to boot from a Windows disc. Make sure the boot device in the BIOS has a higher priority than other devices. Insert the Windows 10 disc into the drive. Restart your PC and follow the steps given below!

• Watch for the “Press Any Key” to boot from the DVD or CD prompt
• Tap the key to load all files from the disc
• Click the “Next” button to choose the language, currency, and keyboard type.
• Click the “Repair Your PC or Computer” link on the next page
• Windows 10 will show you the “System Recovery Options” dialog box

Moreover, if your PC requires special hard drive drivers, click the “Load Drivers” button to locate the installation of Windows 10. If you see your Windows 10 version in the list box, choose it and click the “Next” button. That way, you will see all of the recovery options. Furthermore, the “System Recovery Options” provides numerous troubleshooting tools, including:  

Startup Repair

How to troubleshoot PC hardware and performance? Use the startup repair option if your PC does not startup. The problem is due to various reasons, including a misconfigured driver or an application that hangs the system. It is also due to a faulty piece of hardware.

System Restore

It is another integral component of the “Recovery Options,” allowing you to go back to a restore point. Windows make “restore points” of your PC. The purpose is to store the state of your PC. You can choose a restore point for your PC from a previous day when your system performed correctly. Remember, the system restore option does not change or modify any of your personal data.

System Image Recovery

According to KVS Computers’ experts, the system image recovery feature works if you have created a backup in the past. Windows 10 will search hard drives, memory cards, or DVDs for valid backups. However, if you haven’t created a backup previously, you can’t use this feature. In that case, you will need KVS Computers’ services for advanced system image recovery.

Memory Diagnostic

Some errors you experience are due to memory issues. Windows 10 Memory Diagnostic Tool performs tests against your PC’s RAM to see if there are any issues. Run the tool to troubleshoot PC hardware and performance problems caused by memory. The tool will prompt you to restart your PC and check for issues.

Command Prompt

Before you use the command prompt option, make sure you have extensive knowledge of it. Otherwise, you will make your PC experience further problems. KVS Computers experts say that the command prompt is for experienced computer users.

It allows you to access the file system and run specific commands for Windows 10. So, choose this option if you are sure about it. Act carefully when using the Windows 10 command prompt to ensure everything goes smoothly.

When you finish using the system recovery options, you can click restart or shut down to exist. Contact KVS Computers for additional information or bring your PC to our shop. Our experienced technicians will troubleshoot PC hardware and performance using the advanced system recovery options.

Troubleshoot Performance Problems

According to KVS Computers, software and hardware go hand in hand. Therefore, software or hardware can cause performance issues. For instance, if a devices malfunctions or has an improper configuration, it can cause performance problems.

Similarly, running too many programs or apps simultaneously will consume more processor time and valuable memory, leading to foiling performance. Therefore, avoid assuming that performance issues are always due to hardware.

The problems are also due to software or both. For example, if your PC usage chart runs consistently at a higher percentage, it means you run two or more firewalls. You can check the percentage in the Task Manager.

In that case, you have to disable or remove third-party firewalls. On the other hand, if you want to keep the third-party firewall, you have to disable Windows 10 firewall. Moreover, scan your PC for viruses, malware, adware, and other threats.

KVS Computers recommend installing a premium antivirus program, such as Malwarebytes, to remove viruses and malware. That way, you can reduce resource consumption.

Press Ctrl + Alt + Del to start Task Manager with Windows running. You can also click start and type “taskmgr” to locate and run Task Manager. Once you have opened the Task Manager, click the processes tab. Next, click “Show Processes” from all users to see the list of all the processes running on your PC. Sort the information in the grid based on your CPU.

Troubleshoot PC Hardware and Performance – Final Words

PCs crash due to problems in hardware or errors in system/application software. Bear in mind that software issues are more common than hardware problems. However, hardware issues are more devastating and hard to diagnose.

Troubleshoot PC hardware and performance to prevent errors in the future. The purpose is to ensure your computer runs smoothly without any problems. Hardware troubleshooting allows you to review, diagnose, and identify technical issues within the equipment or components.

You can use the process to resolve physical and logical issues within hardware components. Follow the tips and tricks given above to troubleshoot your PC, identify problems, and fix them immediately.

KVS Computers is a reputable company with many years of experience diagnosing, identifying, and fixing PC hardware issues. We have experienced professionals who use the right tools to ensure your computer runs optimally. Contact us today!