Help keep your Windows PC running in tip-top condition with our guide to Windows troubleshooting

In this section we will investigate basic Windows troubleshooting and explore some of the ways you can keep your PC in tip-top condition. We're going to be looking at uninstalling programs, the disk cleanup utility and several other ways you can fix common PC problems. We'll also be discussing the slightly controversial topic of registry cleaners and finishing up with a peek at Windows services, for the braver readers amongst you!

You can also find lots of useful troubleshooting tips in our guide to making Windows faster.

The Windows Chkdsk (check disk) utility can find and fix common problems with disks and storage devices.

The Disk Cleanup utility is a simple tool in Windows XP and Windows Vista that can remove temporary files from your PC, thus freeing up hard disk space.

HD Tune is a handy free utility that can detect problems with hard drives and hard drive controllers.

Lots of third party software installs shell extensions. Shell extensions add extra functionality to Windows such as new options on the context menu (right click menu), but incorrectly functioning shell extensions can cause problems. ShellExView is a handy Windows troubleshooting tool that allows you to disable and enable shell extensions on your system.

Seemingly random crashes, freezes or blue screen errors on your PC? Start by checking your memory using Memtest!

The System Restore utility can reverse or roll back changes to your computer. If your PC only recently developed a problem, using this utility can often solve it.

Accidentally deleted a file on your computer? Recover it with NTFS Undelete.

Need to free up disc space or remove an unwanted or troublesome program? Learn how to remove programs in Windows XP or Vista with these tutorials:-

Thinking of trying or buying a Windows Registry cleaner in order to troubleshoot your PC? Read the article shown below before you part with your cash!

If you are trying to completely remove a program, it may be worthwhile checking with the Windows Services tool to make sure that there isn't a hidden service running. The tutorials below will explain exactly what Windows services are and how they affect you.

The Windows Task Manager is a useful tool for troubleshooting applications which have stalled or stopped responding.

Exhausted all your options and want to reinstall your operating system? Read this article first before you consider reinstalling your computer!

Read the article above? These tutorials will walk you through the process or reinstalling Windows:-

Windows Vista and Windows 7 users should take a look at our Windows Vista and Windows 7 troubleshooting tutorials. We discuss compatibility options and some tricks and tips for running older software which may be of use to Windows XP users too.