If you are a Windows user, you are likely familiar with the Task Manager, Control Panel, and the Settings app. However, there exists a treasure trove of lesser-known utilities within the Windows operating system that can significantly enhance your troubleshooting capabilities, system performance monitoring, battery life extension, and advanced settings customization—all without relying on third-party tools. For those grappling with frequent system crashes, unexplained performance dips, or simply seeking to optimize their PC’s efficiency, these built-in tools serve as invaluable resources often overlooked.
10 Windows Memory Diagnostic
Test your RAM for hidden errors
For users facing issues with system memory, particularly the notorious Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool can be a lifesaver. This utility restarts your computer and conducts a thorough scan of your RAM, identifying hidden errors that may lead to random crashes or system freezes. Early detection of memory issues can prevent significant headaches in the future.
How to launch: Open the Start Menu, type “Windows Memory Diagnostic,” or press Win + R to access the Run Command box, type mdsched.exe, and hit Enter.
9 Resource Monitor
See what’s eating up your CPU, RAM, and network
When your PC feels sluggish without any apparent reason, it could be due to hidden applications or services running in the background. Resource Monitor acts as a more detailed version of Task Manager, providing real-time insights into CPU usage, memory allocation, disk activity, and network bandwidth. With detailed graphs and sortable tables, it becomes easy to identify which applications or processes are consuming resources and slowing down your system.
How to launch: Open Task Manager, navigate to the Performance tab, and click “Open Resource Monitor,” or simply search for it in the Windows search box.
8 Reliability Monitor
The crash history tool nobody talks about
Reliability Monitor offers an intuitive timeline of your PC’s stability, clearly displaying software installations, updates, application crashes, and hardware errors. This tool simplifies troubleshooting by revealing patterns or events leading to system instability. For instance, if a specific program is continuously crashing, Reliability Monitor can help identify the root cause, making it easier to resolve the issue.
How to launch: Type “Reliability Monitor” into the Start search bar, or navigate through Control Panel > Security and Maintenance.
7 DirectX Diagnostic Tool
Diagnose your graphics and sound problems
For gamers encountering graphics and audio issues, the DirectX Diagnostic Tool is essential. It provides detailed information about your GPU, audio drivers, DirectX version, and other multimedia components, making it invaluable for diagnosing and troubleshooting gaming-related problems.
How to launch: Press Win + R, type dxdiag, and hit Enter.
6 Credential Manager
Your hidden password vault
Windows includes a built-in password manager known as Credential Manager, which securely manages your Windows login credentials, legacy browser passwords, and network login information. While it may not boast advanced features found in dedicated password vaults, it can be useful for resolving recurring network connection issues and clearing outdated credentials.
How to launch: Type “Credential Manager” into the Start search bar or find it in the Control Panel.
5 God Mode
All your system settings just one click away
For those who enjoy hidden Easter eggs, God Mode is a delightful feature that consolidates over 200 critical system settings and configuration options into a single, easily accessible folder. This powerful shortcut is perfect for power users who frequently customize their Windows settings without navigating through multiple menus.
How to enable:
- Right-click your desktop and create a new folder.
- Rename the folder to: GodMode.{ED7BA470-8E54-465E-825C-99712043E01C}.
4 Local Group Policy Editor
Unlock advanced system tweaks
For users of Windows Pro or Enterprise, the Local Group Policy Editor offers advanced customization of hidden Windows settings, including security policies, UI behaviors, and USB access permissions. This tool is invaluable for power users and system administrators looking to optimize security and performance.
How to launch: Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and hit Enter.
3 Computer Management Console
A hub for all your system tools
The Computer Management Console is a comprehensive hub that provides access to Device Manager, Disk Management, Task Scheduler, Services, and Event Viewer all under one interface. This tool streamlines hardware troubleshooting, user account management, and disk partitioning tasks.
How to launch: Right-click on the Start button and select “Computer Management,” or press Win + R, type compmgmt.msc, and hit Enter.
2 Powercfg Tool
Find out what’s draining your laptop battery
If you are experiencing battery issues with your laptop, the Powercfg tool can help diagnose the problem with a simple command. This advanced command-line utility manages and diagnoses power settings, providing detailed reports about battery usage, health, and energy consumption patterns.
To generate the file: Run powercfg /batteryreport from Command Prompt. An HTML battery health report will be saved to your user profile folder.
1 System Configuration (msconfig)
Control how Windows boots
For users facing boot issues, System Configuration (msconfig) allows you to boot Windows into Safe Mode and apply fixes. It also offers essential tools to customize your PC’s startup process, manage boot configurations, and isolate problematic software.
How to launch: Press Win + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
Unleash your PC’s hidden potential
Your Windows PC harbors far more power and utility than meets the eye. The next time you encounter performance issues, mysterious crashes, or simply wish to optimize your system’s efficiency, consider these powerful built-in tools. They not only save you from unnecessary third-party software installations but also help you protect your system’s performance and maximize your computing experience.
