PC Error Fix 101 Glossary
Understanding the technical terms used in computer troubleshooting can make fixing errors much easier. This glossary defines the most common words, commands, and tools you’ll come across while resolving Windows and PC issues. Use it as a quick reference whenever you see unfamiliar terms in our repair guides or system messages.
Administrator
A user account with full control over the Windows operating system. Administrators can install software, change system settings, and manage other user accounts.
Backup
A copy of important files or system data saved to another location, such as an external drive or cloud storage, to prevent loss in case of system failure.
BIOS
The Basic Input/Output System that initializes hardware components when a computer starts up and hands control over to the operating system.
Blue Screen of Death (BSOD)
A system crash screen in Windows that displays an error message when the operating system encounters a fatal error. Often indicates hardware or driver failure.
Cache
Temporary data stored to speed up access to files, websites, or applications. Clearing cache can resolve many performance or connection issues.
CHKDSK
A Windows command-line utility that checks for and repairs disk errors and bad sectors on hard drives.
Clean Boot
A startup mode that loads Windows with minimal drivers and startup programs to help identify software conflicts.
Command Prompt (CMD)
A text-based interface in Windows used to execute commands and troubleshoot issues manually.
Corrupted File
A file that has been damaged and can no longer open or function correctly, often caused by improper shutdowns, disk errors, or malware.
Device Driver
Software that allows the operating system to communicate with hardware devices like printers, network cards, and graphics cards.
DISM
Deployment Image Servicing and Management — a Windows tool used to repair or restore system images and files.
DNS
Domain Name System — translates website names into IP addresses. DNS errors can prevent access to websites or online services.
Event Viewer
A Windows utility that logs detailed information about system warnings, errors, and security events useful for troubleshooting.
Firewall
A security feature that monitors and blocks unauthorized access to your computer or network.
Malware
Malicious software such as viruses, ransomware, or spyware designed to damage or gain access to computers without permission.
Network Adapter
Hardware that connects your computer to a network (wired or wireless). Commonly associated with internet connection errors.
Registry
A central database in Windows that stores settings and configurations for the operating system and applications.
Restore Point
A saved state of your Windows system that allows you to roll back changes if something goes wrong after updates or installations.
Safe Mode
A Windows startup mode that loads only essential drivers and processes, used for diagnosing and fixing problems.
SFC
System File Checker — a command-line tool that scans and repairs corrupted or missing system files.
System Restore
A Windows feature that reverts system files and settings to a previous working condition without affecting personal files.
Task Manager
A Windows utility that shows running processes, startup programs, and performance metrics. Useful for identifying resource-heavy or unresponsive programs.
Temporary Files
Short-term data created by applications and Windows. Deleting them can free up disk space and fix performance issues.
Troubleshooter
A built-in Windows tool that automatically detects and repairs common system and hardware issues.
Update
A patch or new version of software or system files provided by Microsoft or third-party developers to improve performance or security.
Winsock
Windows Sockets — defines how Windows network software accesses network services. Resetting Winsock often fixes connection issues.
Windows Registry Editor (regedit)
A tool for manually viewing or modifying registry entries. Misuse can cause serious system errors.
Windows Update
A Microsoft service that downloads and installs updates for Windows and other Microsoft software.
System Image
A full copy of your system state, including Windows, settings, and files. Used for complete recovery if your system fails.
Virtual Memory
A section of hard drive space that Windows uses as temporary RAM when physical memory runs low.
VPN
Virtual Private Network — encrypts internet traffic and hides your IP address for privacy and security online.
Driver Update
Installing the latest driver software for hardware components to fix bugs, improve performance, and maintain compatibility.
Power Settings
Windows configurations that determine how your computer manages power usage, sleep mode, and hardware performance.
Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE)
A troubleshooting interface that allows you to reset, restore, or repair your system when Windows fails to boot normally.