Windows not working as expected? Here’s a systematic approach to fix it.
Step 1: Identify When It Started
Ask yourself:
- Did this start after a Windows Update?
- Did you install new software?
- Did the PC get restarted improperly?
This tells you where to look.
What Real Users Are Saying
1. (Almost) All Windows Stop Codes and Solutions : r/techsupport
Almost all of them suggest a faulty driver and/or failed hardware (RAM/HDD/CPU/VGA RAM/Mainboard) because that is the cause of a STOP error.
2. Windows 11 22H2 unexpected restarts after upgrade from Windows 10
I’m experiencing unexpected restarts semi-regularly every 20min - 1h. I just upgraded from Windows 10 to Windows 11 Pro 22H2.
3. Troubleshooting Windows unexpected restarts and stop code errors - Microsoft Support
Troubleshooting Windows unexpected restarts and stop code errors. The screen color and messaging for a stop code error can vary, depending on which version of Windows 11 you are running. Screenshot
Step 2: Restart Your PC
Most temporary glitches are fixed by a restart.
Press Win + I → Power → Restart (not Shut down).
Step 3: Check for Windows Updates
Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates.
Install everything, restart when prompted.
Step 4: Run System File Checker
Open Command Prompt as Admin:
sfc /scannow
Repairs corrupted Windows system files.
Step 5: Check Disk Space
Press Win + E → right-click C: → Properties.
If free space is under 10GB, run cleanmgr.
Step 6: Scan for Malware
Run a full scan with Windows Defender: Settings → Privacy & Security → Windows Security → Quick scan first, then Full scan.
Also run Malwarebytes Free .
Step 7: Reset This PC
Settings → System → Recovery → Reset this PC → Keep my files.
The 80/20 rule: 80% of Windows issues are caused by 20% of things — disk full, outdated drivers, malware, or Windows Update problems.