Top 10 Hidden Windows Utilities to Boost Performance & Troubleshooting

Windows operating systems are equipped with a plethora of built-in utilities that often go unnoticed by the average user. These tools can significantly enhance productivity, streamline system management, and provide advanced functionalities without the need for third-party software. Here, we delve into ten such hidden gems that can transform your Windows experience.

1. Windows Memory Diagnostic​

Test Your RAM for Hidden Errors
Experiencing system crashes or the dreaded Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) can often be attributed to faulty memory. The Windows Memory Diagnostic tool is designed to identify and resolve such issues by performing a comprehensive scan of your RAM. Detecting memory problems early can prevent major system failures and data loss.
How to Launch:

• Open the Start Menu, type "Windows Memory Diagnostic," and press Enter.
• Alternatively, press Win + R, type mdsched.exe, and press Enter.

2. Resource Monitor​

Monitor System Performance in Real-Time
When your PC feels sluggish without an apparent reason, hidden background processes might be the culprits. Resource Monitor offers granular, real-time insights into CPU usage, memory allocation, disk activity, and network bandwidth. Its detailed graphs and sortable tables make it easy to pinpoint resource-hogging applications.
How to Launch:

• Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc), go to the Performance tab, and click "Open Resource Monitor."
• Or, search for "Resource Monitor" in the Start Menu.

3. Reliability Monitor​

Track Your System's Stability Over Time
Reliability Monitor provides a timeline of your PC's stability, highlighting software installations, updates, application crashes, and hardware errors. This tool is invaluable for identifying patterns or events leading to system instability, making troubleshooting more straightforward.
How to Launch:

• Type "Reliability Monitor" into the Start search bar.
• Or navigate via Control Panel > Security and Maintenance > Reliability Monitor.

4. DirectX Diagnostic Tool​

Diagnose Graphics and Sound Issues
For gamers and multimedia enthusiasts, the DirectX Diagnostic Tool provides detailed information about your GPU, audio drivers, DirectX version, and other multimedia components. It's essential for diagnosing and troubleshooting graphics and audio problems.
How to Launch:

• Press Win + R, type dxdiag, and hit Enter.

5. Credential Manager​

Manage Your Saved Credentials Securely
Credential Manager securely stores your Windows login credentials, network login information, and legacy browser passwords. It's particularly useful for resolving recurring network connection issues and managing saved passwords.
How to Launch:

• Type "Credential Manager" into the Start search bar.
• Or find it under Control Panel > User Accounts > Credential Manager.

6. God Mode​

Access All System Settings in One Place
God Mode consolidates over 200 critical system settings and configuration options into a single, easy-to-access folder. This powerful shortcut is ideal for users who frequently customize and tweak their Windows settings without navigating through multiple menus.
How to Enable:

• Right-click on the desktop and create a new folder.
• Rename the folder to: GodMode.{ED7BA470-8E54-465E-825C-99712043E01C}
• Open the folder to access an extensive array of settings.

7. Local Group Policy Editor​

Unlock Advanced System Tweaks
Available in Windows Pro and Enterprise editions, the Local Group Policy Editor allows advanced customization of hidden Windows settings, including security policies, UI behaviors, telemetry control, and more. It's invaluable for power users and system administrators aiming to optimize system performance and security.
How to Launch:

• Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.

Note: This tool is not available in Windows Home editions by default.

8. Computer Management Console​

A Central Hub for System Management
The Computer Management Console integrates several administrative tools, including Device Manager, Disk Management, Task Scheduler, Services, and Event Viewer, into a single interface. It 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.

9. Powercfg Tool​

Analyze and Optimize Your Laptop's Battery Usage
Facing issues with your laptop's battery life? The Powercfg command-line utility generates detailed reports about battery usage, health, and energy consumption patterns, helping you identify what's draining your battery.
How to Generate a Battery Report:

• Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
• Type powercfg /batteryreport and press Enter.
• The report will be saved as an HTML file in your user profile folder.

10. System Configuration (msconfig)​

Control How Windows Boots
System Configuration allows you to customize your PC's startup process, manage boot configurations, startup services, and diagnostic modes. It's particularly effective for diagnosing and resolving boot issues or improving startup times.
How to Launch:

• Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.

By exploring and utilizing these built-in tools, you can enhance your Windows experience, troubleshoot issues more effectively, and optimize your system's performance without relying on third-party software.

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Source: xda-developers.com 10 useful Windows built-in tools you’ve never used