Windows 11 · Windows
Check Windows PC and Storage Health
Source-checked About 10 minutes
Answer
Use the PC Health Check app for Microsoft’s supported device checks, then review any Windows storage critical warning promptly and back up data. Microsoft does not provide a single universal CPU or GPU health verdict.
Prepare and identify the exact scope
Back up important files before diagnostics, especially when Windows reports a storage warning, crashes recur, or a drive makes unusual noises. Record the PC model, component names, temperatures, error codes, and when symptoms occur.
Use the PC Health Check app
Open Microsoft’s PC Health Check app and run the available device checks for the Windows PC.
Check for a storage warning
Open Windows storage information and look for a critical warning that needs attention.
Back up and follow storage guidance
If Windows reports a storage warning, back up important files and follow Microsoft's documented next steps.
Verify the supported result
Use PC Health Check only for the checks it actually exposes, then compare storage warnings with Settings and manufacturer diagnostics. Confirm a suspected fault with repeatable symptoms rather than treating one utilization spike as hardware failure.
Understand limits and consequences
Microsoft does not provide one pass/fail health score for every CPU, GPU, and drive. High usage under load can be normal, and third-party benchmark scores are not proof that a component is safe or defective.
Use the safest supported follow-up
For CPU or GPU concerns, use the PC or component maker's current diagnostics and support limits. For a critical storage warning, minimize writes, complete the backup, and follow Microsoft's replacement or support guidance promptly.
Video walkthrough
If it does not work
- If crashes, artifacts, overheating, SMART warnings, or data errors persist, stop stress tests and provide logs to the hardware maker or repair technician. Do not open power supplies, disable thermal protection, or run destructive surface tests on unbacked-up storage.
Sources and verification
Checked against official documentation on . Scope: Windows.
Follow the linked first-party guidance if labels differ after a platform or app update.