Fix Windows 11 problems with the Troubleshoot feature — here's how

Your computer can fix itself automatically with the Troubleshoot feature, and here's how to use it on Windows 11.

On Windows 11, "Troubleshoot" is a feature that uses diagnostic data to detect and fix common problems automatically. For example, it can restore critical services settings, make system changes on your behalf to match the hardware configuration, or adjust settings to help keep the computer running smoothly.

The Troubleshoot feature can also suggest fixes for problems that are not critical to operating Windows 11, but they may still impact the experience. An example would be a recommendation to disable an app or feature that is not working as intended until a fix is released through Windows Update.

Furthermore, if you ever stumble upon a problem with an internet connection, audio, printer, Bluetooth, or Windows Update, it's possible to run many troubleshooters manually to resolve the issue quickly.

In this Windows 11 guide, we will walk you through the steps to fix problems with the Troubleshoot feature.

• How to manage Troubleshoot settings on Windows 11
• How to run Troubleshoot on Windows 11
• How to disable Troubleshoot on Windows 11
• How to view Troubleshoot history on Windows 11

How to manage Troubleshoot settings on Windows 11

To change the Troubleshoot settings on Windows 11, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on System.

3. Click the Troubleshoot page on the right side.

4. Select the best option for your computer using the Recommended troubleshooter preference setting:

   • Run automatically, don't notify me— Recommended fixes will apply automatically without user interaction.
   • Run automatically, then notify me— Applies the fixes automatically, and the system will let you know about the changes.
   • Ask me before running (default)— You will need to review the notification before applying it.
   • Don't run any— Disables the feature.

Once you complete the steps, Windows 11 will run and apply fixes according to your configuration.

How to run Troubleshoot on Windows 11

While the system will fix problems automatically, you can also run troubleshooters manually for many issues that may appear on your computer.

To fix common Windows 11 problems with Troubleshoot, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on System.

3. Click the Troubleshoot page on the right side.

4. Click the Other troubleshooters page on the right side.

5. Select the topic that best describes the problem and click the Run button.

6. Continue with the on-screen directions (if applicable).

After you complete the steps, the fix will resolve the issue. If the problem wasn't resolved, you might want to run the troubleshooter a few more times.

How to disable Troubleshoot on Windows 11

To prevent the system from running automated fixes, use the steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on System.

3. Click the Troubleshoot page on the right side.

4. Select the Don't run any option using the "Recommended troubleshoot preference" setting.

Once you complete the steps, Windows 11 will no longer attempt to fix problems automatically.

How to view Troubleshoot history on Windows 11

To review previous fixes with Troubleshoot, use these steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Click on System.

3. Click the Troubleshoot page on the right side.

4. Click the Recommended troubleshooter history page on the right side.

Once you complete the steps, the fixes that the system tried to apply automatically will appear on this page. However, manual troubleshooters, such as those to fix internet connections, audio, printer, updates, and others, won't appear in the history page.

More Windows resources

For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources:

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 11 help, tips, and tricks
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know