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Win7 Basic Troubleshooting Steps
If Win7 will not start, follow these steps: https://www.sevenforums.com/1667540-post11.html
Check for infection by installing Malwarebytes, update, run a Full Scan - in Safe Mode if necessary. Many issues can be solved by running a free lightweight AV like MS Security Essentials with the Win7 Firewall for best performance.
Establish a Clean Boot by unchecking everything in msconfig>Startup except AV: Startup Programs - Change. After reboot enter msconfig>Services, check the box to Hide All MS Services, repeat above. Check back periodically that nothing has written itself in to either list, turn it off in its Program Preferences or Uninstall it. Freeloaders slow startup, can be a drag on CPU/RAM, cause issues and spy on you. If you have a question about an item google to find out what it does.
Study the Event Viewer>Custom>Admin view for repeat errors to google text and ID# for resolution. Check also the Performance log on Advanced Tools page accessed by clicking your WEI score link at Computer>Properties. Check for cued issues at top of Tools page, Generate A System Health Report.
Look for issues cued in Action Center in System Tray. Type "Solutions" in Start Search box to see if any have been sent for Problems reported or not. Always report problems when asked as Win7 is interactive this way.
Test your hardware by running memtest86 CD for 5-6 passes or overnight: RAM - Test with Memtest86+, then test the HD using maker's diag/repair full CD scan: Hard Drive Diagnostics Tools and Utilities (Storage) - TACKtech Corp. followed by full Disk Check.
Check all cabling is securely connected and in good condition, try reinstalling hardware, unplug extra HD's, peripherals, CD/DVD drive to see if problems disappear. Remove any floppy drive.
Check temps for overheating by installing SpeedFan, blow dust out of the case using canned air or clean out laptop dust, check all connections carefully avoiding static discharge to components by touching case first, upgrade or reseat RAM.
Check for any errors in Device Manager. Enable hardware auto-updating to be sure you're getting the latest drivers via optional Windows Updates. Any missing drivers can be found on the Support Downloads webpage for your computer or device model.
Check for newer display driver, or roll back to the previous verison or try another Win7 or Vista driver. Turn off or uninstall the accompanying software package.
Some of these steps suggested for cleaning up a factory bloatware install might help.
Run SFC /SCANNOW Command - System File Checker to repair any damaged or corrupt OS files.
As a last resort before reinstall try a Repair Install which can fix most problems as it reinstalls the OS while keeping all programs, files and settings in place.
Tips for a clean reinstall, which is actually better than getting a new computer with today's bloated factory pre-installs.
To find a location listed above, type it in Start Search Box.
Last edited by gregrocker; 11 Mar 2012 at 14:43.