How to Check Crash Logs in Windows 10
Every now and then, your computer might have issues and you need to find out what went wrong. Checking crash logs on Windows 10 can help you pinpoint the problem. Here’s a simple way to do it: open the Event Viewer, navigate to the Windows Logs, and then check the Application and System logs for errors. That’s it! With this guide, you’ll become a pro at diagnosing your computer woes.
Step-By-Step Tutorial: How to Check Crash Logs in Windows 10
By following these steps, you’ll be able to navigate Windows 10’s Event Viewer and find the crash logs you need.
Step 1: Open the Start Menu
Click the Start icon or press the Windows key on your keyboard.
The Start Menu is your gateway to accessing all the programs and settings on your computer. It’s the first step to opening the Event Viewer.
Step 2: Type "Event Viewer" in the Search Bar
Type "Event Viewer" into the search bar and hit Enter.
Windows will start searching for the Event Viewer application. This tool is your best friend when it comes to troubleshooting crashes.
Step 3: Open Event Viewer
Click on the Event Viewer app that appears in the search results.
The Event Viewer will open, displaying a list of logs and events that have occurred on your computer. This is where you’ll find the crash logs.
Step 4: Navigate to Windows Logs
In the sidebar, expand the "Windows Logs" section.
This section contains various logs, including Application, Security, Setup, System, and Forwarded Events. You’ll mainly be interested in Application and System logs.
Step 5: Click on Application or System Logs
Select either the Application or System logs to view the relevant entries.
These logs will contain information about crashes and errors. Application logs focus on software issues, while System logs focus on Windows-related problems.
Step 6: Look for Errors
Scroll through the logs and look for entries marked as "Error" or "Critical."
These entries will give you details about what went wrong, including error codes and descriptions. This information can help you troubleshoot the issue.
After completing these steps, you’ll have a good understanding of what caused the crash and can take steps to fix it.
Tips for Checking Crash Logs in Windows 10
- Use Filters: Event Viewer allows you to filter logs by severity, making it easier to find critical errors.
- Check Time Stamps: Look at the time stamps on the logs to correlate crashes with specific activities.
- Save Logs: You can save the logs as files for future reference or to share with tech support.
- Use Google: If you find an error code, a quick Google search can provide additional context and solutions.
- Regular Checks: Make it a habit to check logs regularly to catch small issues before they become big problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Event Viewer?
Event Viewer is a built-in tool in Windows that logs detailed information about system events, including crashes, errors, and warnings.
Can I delete logs in Event Viewer?
Yes, but it’s generally not recommended unless you’re sure you don’t need them for troubleshooting.
What do the different log types mean?
Application logs focus on software errors, while System logs focus on Windows and hardware issues.
How often should I check the logs?
It’s a good idea to check them whenever you experience a crash or at least once a month for routine maintenance.
Can Event Viewer fix my computer problems?
No, but it can provide valuable information to help you understand and troubleshoot the issues.
Summary of Steps
- Open the Start Menu.
- Type "Event Viewer" in the Search Bar.
- Open Event Viewer.
- Navigate to Windows Logs.
- Click on Application or System Logs.
- Look for Errors.
Conclusion
So there you have it—how to check crash logs in Windows 10! It’s a handy skill that can save you a lot of time and frustration. By using the Event Viewer, you can dive into the nitty-gritty details of what went wrong and start troubleshooting right away.
If this is your first time dealing with crash logs, don’t worry. It might seem like a lot of information at first, but you’ll get the hang of it. Think of it like learning to read a new kind of map. Once you know what to look for, it becomes second nature.
For further reading, you might want to look into specific error codes you encounter. There are countless forums and tech websites that can help you understand those cryptic messages.
So go ahead, fire up Event Viewer, and take control of your Windows 10 experience. You’ve got this!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.