Windows Operating System Common Issues and Fixes: Complete Troubleshooting Guide (2025 Edition)

Windows is the most widely used operating system across the world, powering millions of desktops, laptops, tablets, and even servers. Its user-friendly interface, compatibility with thousands of applications, gaming capabilities, and regular updates make it the preferred choice for both home users and professionals. However, despite constant improvements, Windows is not immune to errors, bugs, crashes, and performance issues.

Most users experience at least one common problem at some point — whether it’s a slow system, black screen, Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), Wi-Fi not connecting, Windows update failures, or driver issues. Fortunately, many of these problems can be solved at home without needing a technician.

In this detailed blog, we will explore the most common Windows issues and their proven solutions, step-by-step. Whether you use Windows 10 or Windows 11, these methods will help you identify, fix, and prevent problems efficiently.

1. Slow Performance and System Lag

One of the most frustrating issues is when a Windows PC suddenly becomes slow, takes time to boot, or programs freeze frequently. Slowness may occur due to low storage, outdated drivers, malware, background apps, or corrupted system files.

Possible Causes:

Too many startup apps
Fragmented hard drive (HDD)
Malware or viruses
Lack of RAM
Outdated OS or drivers
Heavy temporary files
Running low on disk space

Fixes:

✔ Disable Startup Programs

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc
Go to Startup tab
Disable unnecessary apps like Spotify, Teams, Adobe, etc.

✔ Clean Temporary Files

Press Windows + R → type temp → delete contents
Repeat with: %temp%, prefetch

✔ Use Disk Cleanup

Search Disk Cleanup → Select C: → Clean system files

✔ Upgrade Storage to SSD

Replacing HDD with SSD can increase speed by up to 10x.

✔ Increase RAM

8GB minimum recommended, 16GB ideal for multitasking and gaming.

2. Black Screen with Cursor

This is a very common boot-related issue, typically caused by display driver failure, corrupted system files, or Windows Explorer not launching.

Fixes:

Press Ctrl + Alt + Del → Task Manager
Click File → Run new task → type explorer.exe → OK
If it doesn’t work, boot in Safe Mode and reinstall/update display drivers

Also run SFC and DISM command:

sfc /scannow
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

3. Blue Screen of Death (BSOD)

A BSOD appears when Windows encounters a serious system error. You may see stop codes like IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL, CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED, MEMORY_MANAGEMENT, etc.

Fixes:

Remove unsupported hardware
Update drivers through Device Manager
Run Windows Memory Diagnostic
Perform System File Check

To test RAM:

Search: Windows Memory Diagnostic
Click: Restart & check

4. Wi-Fi or Internet Connection Issues

If your laptop cannot connect to Wi-Fi or shows No Internet, it could be due to driver conflicts, DNS issues, or router problems.

Fixes:

Basic Restart

Restart both router + PC.

Reset DNS and IP

Open Command Prompt (Admin) and run:

Restart PC.

Reinstall Network Driver

Open Device Manager → Network adapters → Right-click driver → Uninstall → Restart

5. Audio Not Working

This happens due to disabled audio devices, wrong output selection, or corrupted drivers.

Fixes:

Right-click sound icon → Select Troubleshoot sound problems
Check if the correct audio output (speakers/headphones) is selected
Open Device Manager → Sound → Update Driver

Also make sure the audio service is on:

services.msc → Windows Audio → Restart

6. Windows Update Errors

Windows Update is a crucial feature of the Microsoft Windows operating system, designed to keep your computer secure and up to date with the latest features and improvements. It automatically downloads and installs updates for the operating system and various Microsoft software, addressing security vulnerabilities, enhancing performance, and adding new functionalities. Users can customize their update settings, choosing options such as automatic updates or manual installations, based on their preferences. Regularly installing updates is vital for protecting your system from malware and cyber threats, ensuring your computer runs smoothly and efficiently. While updates can sometimes be disruptive, they are essential for maintaining the overall health and security of your system.

Sometimes updates fail to install showing error codes like 0x80070020, 0x80070002, 0x8024a105, etc.

Fixes:

✔ Use Built-in Troubleshooter

Settings → Update and Security → Troubleshoot
Select Windows Update

✔ Reset Update Components

Run these commands in CMD (Admin):

✔ Ensure Storage Space

At least 10GB free recommended.

7. Automatic Restart or Shutdown

Your system may restart due to overheating, power supply problems, malware, or Windows crash handling.

Fixes:

Clean your cooling fan and apply thermal paste if needed
Disable auto restart

sysdm.cpl → Advanced → Startup and Recovery → Uncheck Auto Restart
Scan PC using antivirus
Check power adapter/battery

8. Application Not Responding or Crashing

A common issue caused by insufficient memory, corrupted files, or outdated software.

Fixes:

Run program as Administrator ( just right click on the program and you will get to see “run as administrator”.)
Reinstall or update the app
Run compatibility mode (Right-click → Properties → Compatibility)
Use SFC repair tool

9. Screen Flickering / Display Problems

This is often due to display driver conflict or incompatible apps.

Fixes:

Update or remove display driver
Uninstall apps like Norton, iCloud, IDT Audio (known flicker causes)
Change refresh rate

Display Settings → Advanced display → Refresh rate

10. No Boot or Boot Loop Issue

Occurs when the system can’t load Windows due to bootloader corruption.

Fixes:

Open Command Prompt from Recovery Mode and enter:

11. File Explorer Not Responding

Why File Explorer Does Not Respond ?

1. Too Many Windows Explorer Processes Running
When Explorer has multiple instances open, it may freeze.
2. Corrupted File Explorer Cache
Quick Access history or thumbnail cache can become corrupted.
3. Low System Resources (RAM/CPU Overload)
Heavy apps running in the background can cause Explorer to stop responding.
4. Faulty or Outdated Windows Updates
A buggy update or incomplete installation may slow down Explorer.
5. Corrupted System Files
Missing or damaged Windows files cause crashes.
6. Faulty Context Menu (Right-Click) Extensions
Apps like WinRAR, 7-Zip, PDF tools add extensions that may break Explorer.
7. Malware Infection
Viruses may interfere with system processes.
8. Damaged Hard Drive or Bad Sectors
Explorer freezes when accessing corrupted locations.

How to Fix File Explorer Not Responding?🔨

🔊1. Restart Windows Explorer

Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc
Select Windows Explorer
Click Restart

🔊2. Clear File Explorer History

Open Control Panel
Search File Explorer Options
Click Clear under Privacy

🔊3. Delete Thumbnail Cache

Open Disk Cleanup
Select Thumbnails
Click OK

🔊4. Disable Startup Apps

Free system resources:
Task Manager → Startup → Disable unnecessary items

🔊5. Run System File Checker

Open CMD (Admin) and type:

sfc /scannow
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

🔊6. Disable Problematic Context Menu Extensions

Download ShellExView (safe Microsoft utility)
→ Disable non-Microsoft extensions
→ Restart PC

🔊7. Check for Malware

Run:

Windows Security Full Scan
Malwarebytes (optional)

🔊8. Update or Uninstall Problematic Windows Updates

Settings → Windows Update → Update history
Uninstall the update causing issues.

🔊9. Run Disk Check

If Explorer freezes while opening folders/drives:

chkdsk C: /f /r

Reboot required.

12. Virus & Malware Infections

Signs include unknown pop-ups, browser hijacking, unknown apps installed, and heavy CPU load.

Fixes:

Run Windows Security Full Scan
Use Malwarebytes / Hitman Pro
Reset browser settings
Avoid installing cracked software and unknown extensions

13. Printer Not Working

Fixes:

Restart Print Spooler service

services.msc → Print Spooler → Restart
Reinstall printer drivers
Remove stuck print queue jobs

14. Windows Activation or License Issues

What is Windows Activation?

Windows Activation is the process of verifying that:

Your copy of Windows is genuine, and
You’re not using the same product key on more devices than allowed.

Without activation, Windows will still work but with restrictions like:

Watermark: “Activate Windows”
Limited personalization
Occasional pop-up reminders
Missing some features

🔑 Types of Windows Activation

1. Product Key Activation

You enter a 25-character key like:

2. Digital License Activation

No key required — it auto-activates when:

You upgraded from Windows 10 to 11
You linked your license with your Microsoft account
Your PC had Windows pre-installed (OEM)

⚠️ Common Windows Activation Errors

1. 0xC004F074

Key is invalid or activation server can’t verify.

2. 0xC004C003

Product key already used on another device.

3. 0x803F7001

“No valid license found.”

4. 0xC004F050

Wrong or incorrect product key.

🛠️ How to Fix Windows Activation Issues

✔ 1. Use the Activation Troubleshooter

Go to Settings → System → Activation
Click Troubleshoot
Follow the on-screen steps

This automatically fixes common errors.

✔ 2. Re-enter the Product Key

Go to Settings → System → Activation
Click Change product key
Enter the 25-character key again

✔ 3. Activate Using Command Prompt (Admin)

Open CMD as Administrator and run:

Check current license status:

Enter a new key:

Activate it:

✔ 4. Link Digital License to Microsoft Account

Sign in with Microsoft account
Windows will activate automatically on the same device
Go to Activation → Troubleshoot → I changed hardware on this device
to re-activate after a motherboard/SSD change

✔ 5. Make Sure You’re Online

Activation requires a stable internet connection.

✔ 6. Check for Pirated or Invalid Keys

Keys from unofficial sources (e.g., extremely cheap online deals) may get blocked later.

🔍 How to Check If Your Windows Is Activated

Press Win + R, type:

A popup will show:

“Windows is activated permanently”
or
An expiration date
or
Not activated

❗ When Should You Buy a New License?

You need a new license if:

You built a new PC
You replaced the motherboard
Your key is used on more than one device
Your key is blocked by Microsoft

Also checkout –

15. System Overheating & Fan Noise

Fixes:

Use a cooling pad
Remove dust from vents
Disable heavy background apps
Change power plan to Balanced

Prevention Tips

Prevention Tips – Keep Windows Healthy

Tip	Benefit
Install updates regularly	Security + features
Use SSD instead of HDD	Faster performance
Keep antivirus enabled	Protection
Avoid pirated software	Prevent malware
Backup data monthly	No data loss risk
Clean temporary files	Faster OS
Use genuine drivers	Stability

Conclusion

The Windows operating system is powerful and feature-rich, but like any technology, it can run into problems due to hardware issues, software bugs, corrupt files, viruses, or improper settings. The good news is that most of these problems can be fixed without professional help using basic troubleshooting steps like restarting services, updating drivers, clearing temporary files, running system commands, and using built-in troubleshooters.

By following the solutions mentioned above, you can resolve issues related to performance, networking, booting, display, audio, updates, application crashes, overheating, and more. Additionally, performing regular maintenance, using licensed software, and keeping backups can ensure smooth and long-lasting PC performance.

FAQs

1. Which is better — Windows 10 or Windows 11?
Both are powerful, but Windows 11 offers a modern UI, better security, and optimized performance for new hardware.

2. Why does Windows hang frequently?
The main reason is low RAM, HDD usage, corrupted files, or too many background apps.

3. Should I disable antivirus to increase speed?
No, instead uninstall heavy third-party antivirus and use Windows Security.

4. Is formatting the only solution for serious problems?
No, try repair install, system restore, or SFC/DISM before formatting.

Over to You! ❤️

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