How to Use Event Viewer to Solve Errors - Step-by-Step Guide

Windows Event Viewer is a powerful tool that records system, application, and security-related events on your computer. By analyzing these logs, you can troubleshoot and resolve errors efficiently. This guide will walk you through how to access, navigate, and use Event Viewer to diagnose system issues.

1. Opening Event Viewer

You can open Event Viewer in multiple ways:

• Using Run Command: PressWin + R, typeeventvwr.msc, and hit Enter.

• Using Start Menu: Search for "Event Viewer" in the Windows Start Menu and open it.

• Using Control Panel: Navigate toControl Panel > Administrative Tools > Event Viewer.

2. Understanding Event Viewer Layout

Once opened, Event Viewer has three main sections:

• Custom Views: Predefined filters for specific logs, such as administrative events.

• Windows Logs: Includes Application, Security, Setup, System, and Forwarded Events.

• Applications and Services Logs: Logs from specific applications or services.

3. Identifying Errors in Event Logs

To find and analyze errors:

1. Expand Windows Logs and click on System or Application.

2. Look for entries marked as "Error" or "Warning".

3. Click on an event to see its details, including Event ID and Source.

4. Using Event ID for Troubleshooting

Every error log includes an Event ID, which can help pinpoint issues. You can:

• Search the Event ID on Microsoft’s Event ID Database.

• Look up solutions in online forums like Microsoft Community or TechNet.

5. Fixing Common Windows Errors

Here are some frequent errors and potential solutions:

• Event ID 41 (Kernel-Power): Indicates an unexpected shutdown; check power supply and system overheating.

• Event ID 10016 (DistributedCOM): Often harmless but can be fixed by adjusting permissions in the Registry.

• Event ID 7000 (Service Control Manager): A service failed to start; check service settings inservices.msc.

6. Creating Custom Views for Faster Diagnosis

To create a custom view:

1. Click Create Custom View on the right panel.

2. Choose a log type (e.g., System, Application) and filter by Event Level (e.g., Error, Warning).

3. Click OK and save it for quick access in the future.

7. Exporting Logs for Further Analysis

If you need to share logs with a technician:

1. Click Save All Events As from the right panel.

2. Choose a.evtxfile format and save it.

3. Open it later in another system’s Event Viewer for review.

Conclusion

Windows Event Viewer is an essential tool for diagnosing and resolving system errors. By understanding its logs, identifying Event IDs, and applying relevant fixes, you can keep your Windows system running smoothly.

By following this guide, you can quickly diagnose Windows errors using Event Viewer and resolve them effectively. If you encounter persistent issues, consider consulting a professional or searching Microsoft’s support database for further assistance.