Windows provides a centralized utility called Computer Management that allows users to access a suite of administrative tools to monitor, configure, and troubleshoot their system. Whether you’re a beginner or an IT professional, knowing how to navigate these tools can significantly boost your efficiency and problem-solving ability. In this guide, we explore every key component in detail and offer step-by-step instructions to help you make the most of these features.
What Is Computer Management?
Computer Management is a built-in Microsoft Management Console (MMC) that consolidates several Windows utilities into one place. It allows users to view and control various aspects of their computer’s operations including system performance, disk usage, services, user accounts, and more. It is divided into three main categories:
- System Tools
- Storage
- Services and Applications
You can open it by right-clicking on This PC > Manage or typing compmgmt.msc in the Run dialog (Win + R).
1. System Tools
Task Scheduler
Task Scheduler lets you create and automate routine tasks on your system. For example, you can set up your PC to launch Microsoft Edge at startup.
How to Create a Basic Task:
- Open Task Scheduler.
- Click on Create Basic Task.
- Give your task a name and an optional description.
- Choose a trigger (e.g., daily, weekly, at startup).
- Choose the action: Start a program.
- Select the application (e.g., Edge browser executable).
- Click Finish.
Note: The options to “Send an Email” and “Display a Message” are deprecated in recent Windows versions.
Event Viewer
Event Viewer records all significant activities and errors on your computer. It is crucial for diagnosing problems.
- Browse logs under Windows Logs > System, Application, Security.
- Double-click on entries to view details.
- Use the Event ID for targeted online troubleshooting.
Most logs are self-resolving, but persistent issues may require attention.
Shared Folders
View all shared folders and current active sessions:
- Create new shares directly.
- Stop sharing a folder by right-clicking > Properties > Sharing > Stop Sharing.
Local Users and Groups
Manage local user accounts and security groups.
Create a New User:
- Navigate to Local Users and Groups > Users.
- Right-click and select New User.
- Enter username, password, and settings.
Create a New Group:
- Right-click on Groups.
- Choose New Group.
- Name it and add members.
Performance Monitor
Monitor real-time system performance or generate detailed reports.
To Use:
- Add counters like Processor Time, Disk I/O, Network Bandwidth.
- Create Data Collector Sets to log data.
- Schedule logging (daily, hourly, etc.).
- Access reports after collection.
Device Manager
Manage all connected hardware components.
- Yellow exclamation mark = driver issue
- Right-click to Update, Uninstall, or Scan for hardware changes
Useful for resolving printer, audio, or USB device problems.
2. Storage: Disk Management
Disk Management lets you:
- View drive status and partition layout
- Create/delete/format partitions
- Extend or shrink volumes
- Assign/change drive letters
Ideal for preparing new drives or fixing partition-related issues.
3. Services and Applications
Services
Manage background services necessary for Windows operations.
- Start/Stop/Restart services
- Use it to troubleshoot services like Print Spooler, Windows Update, etc.
Example: Restarting Print Spooler can fix many printing issues.
Additional Windows Tools
Windows Troubleshooter
Access via Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other Troubleshooters.
Use it to fix:
- Audio issues
- Network problems
- Printer errors
- Windows Update failures
Windows Memory Diagnostics
Check RAM health:
- Search for Windows Memory Diagnostic.
- Click Restart now and check for problems.
- Wait for system reboot and diagnostics results.
CHKDSK (Check Disk)
Scan and fix file system errors.
Method 1 (GUI):
- Right-click drive > Properties > Tools > Error Checking
Method 2 (Command Line):
chkdsk C: /f /r
- /f = fix errors
- /r = locate bad sectors
SFC (System File Checker)
Repair corrupted system files:
sfc /scannow
Printer Troubleshooting Guide
- Check Connections: Ensure printer is plugged in, turned on, and connected.
- Reinstall Drivers: Go to Device Manager > Printers > Uninstall and reinstall drivers.
- Restart Print Spooler:
- Open Services > Locate Print Spooler > Restart
- Paper Jams: Clear stuck paper inside printer trays.
- Ping Printer IP: Confirm connectivity via Command Prompt.
- Clear Print Queue:
- Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > Printers > Open Queue > Cancel all
- Update Issues: Uninstall conflicting Windows updates if needed.
- Ink/Toner Issues: Replace low or empty cartridges.
App Repair or Reset
Go to Settings > Apps > Installed Apps > App Name > Advanced Options
- Repair: Fix without data loss
- Reset: Restores to factory state (data loss may occur)
Safe Mode
Use Safe Mode for advanced troubleshooting.
- Open System Configuration (
msconfig) - Go to Boot tab
- Select Safe boot
- Choose one:
- Minimal: Basic safe mode
- Network: Safe mode with networking
- Alternate Shell: Command-line only
Network Troubleshooting
For All Devices
- Restart router
- Reset router to default settings
- Contact your Internet Service Provider if needed
For One Device
- Reboot PC
- Ping
127.0.0.1to test local adapter - Ping DNS (e.g.,
8.8.8.8) to test internet connection
Fix Browser Issues
ipconfig /flushdns
Clears DNS cache and resolves most website loading errors.
If Your PC Is Slow
Causes:
- Windows updates running in background
- Low RAM or disk space
- Faulty applications consuming resources
Fixes:
- Open Task Manager to find and kill high-resource processes
- Uninstall unnecessary apps
- Clean temporary files, Recycle Bin
- Upgrade RAM or switch to SSD
- Reboot system after update installations
Post-Update Issues
If you face problems after Windows updates:
- Go to Settings > Windows Update > Update History
- Click Uninstall Updates to remove recent patches
- Use System Restore or Reset this PC if needed
Important: Disable BitLocker before performing a system reset, or save the recovery key.
Run Older Programs on Windows 11
Use compatibility settings:
- Search for Run programs made for previous versions of Windows
- Launch the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter
- Select the problematic program or browse manually
- Follow the wizard to apply best compatibility mode
Tags
computer management, task scheduler, disk management, event viewer, Windows tools, troubleshoot Windows, performance monitor, network issues, device manager, printer problems, safe mode, sfc, chkdsk, Windows update problems
Hashtags
#Windows11 #ComputerManagement #TaskScheduler #Troubleshooting #DeviceManager #PerformanceMonitor #SafeMode #NetworkTroubleshooting #PrinterFix #WindowsTools
Disclaimer
This article is intended for educational purposes only. Always take appropriate data backups before making system-level changes like disk partitioning or OS reset. Seek professional help if you’re unsure about executing any of the steps.
