How to Find Out Why My Computer Crashed Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide

If your Windows 10 computer keeps crashing, it can be super frustrating. But don’t worry! You can figure out why this is happening by following a few steps. You’ll need to check some logs, run a few system checks, and maybe do a bit of troubleshooting. Let’s dive in and fix that pesky problem!

How to Find Out Why My Computer Crashed Windows 10

In this section, we’ll go step by step to identify the cause of your Windows 10 crashes. By following each step, you’ll be able to diagnose the issue and take steps to prevent future crashes.

Step 1: Open Event Viewer

The first step is to open the Event Viewer.

Event Viewer is a built-in tool that logs all sorts of system events, including crashes. To open it, right-click the Start button and select "Event Viewer."

Step 2: Check for Critical Errors

Next, you want to look for any critical errors.

In Event Viewer, navigate to "Windows Logs" and then "System." Look for any logs marked with a red "Error" icon. These are usually indicators of what went wrong.

Step 3: Use Reliability Monitor

Open the Reliability Monitor for a comprehensive view.

You can open Reliability Monitor by typing "Reliability Monitor" in the search bar and selecting "View reliability history." This tool gives you a timeline of your system’s stability and any crashes that occurred.

Step 4: Run a System File Check

Run a System File Check (SFC) to detect corrupted files.

Open Command Prompt as an administrator and type "sfc /scannow." This will scan your system for corrupted files and repair them if needed.

Step 5: Update Drivers

Ensure all your drivers are up-to-date.

Sometimes crashes are caused by outdated drivers. Open Device Manager and look for any devices with a yellow exclamation mark. Right-click and select "Update driver."

Step 6: Check for Malware

Run a full system scan to ensure your computer is malware-free.

Use Windows Defender or any reputable antivirus software to do a complete scan of your system. Malware can cause frequent crashes.

After you complete these actions, your computer should be more stable, and you should have a better idea of why it was crashing. It might take a bit of trial and error, but these steps should guide you in resolving the issue.

Tips for Finding Out Why My Computer Crashed Windows 10

  • Regularly back up your data to avoid losing important files during crashes.
  • Make sure your Windows 10 operating system is always updated.
  • Keep a log of any recent changes or installations; this can help pinpoint the cause of the crash.
  • Use Safe Mode to troubleshoot if your computer keeps crashing on startup.
  • Consider hardware issues, like faulty RAM or overheating, as potential causes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my computer crash is hardware-related?

Check for physical signs like beeping noises, overheating, or hardware failure messages in the Event Viewer.

Can software updates cause crashes?

Yes, sometimes new software updates can introduce bugs that cause crashes. Always read update notes and user reviews before installing.

What if my computer crashes during the SFC scan?

Boot into Safe Mode and try running the SFC scan again. Safe Mode runs only essential services, reducing the chances of a crash during the scan.

How often should I update my drivers?

It’s good practice to check for driver updates every few months or whenever you install new hardware.

What should I do if I find malware?

Immediately quarantine or delete it using your antivirus software, and run another scan to ensure your system is clean.

Summary

  1. Open Event Viewer.
  2. Check for Critical Errors.
  3. Use Reliability Monitor.
  4. Run a System File Check.
  5. Update Drivers.
  6. Check for Malware.

Conclusion

Figuring out why your Windows 10 computer crashed might seem like a daunting task, but it’s totally doable if you break it down into smaller steps. The key is to methodically check each potential cause, from system logs to hardware issues. Be proactive by keeping your system updated and your drivers current.

If you find malware or corrupted files, handle those immediately to prevent further crashes. By following this guide, you’ll not only solve your current issue but also gain valuable skills for future troubleshooting. Remember, a stable computer is a happy computer!

So, the next time you find yourself asking, "How to find out why my computer crashed Windows 10?", you’ll know exactly what to do. Happy troubleshooting!

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