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  Computer users tend to encounter problems from time to time. The Windows operating system comes with a handy set of tools that can help figure out problems with a computer. Although many third-party programs are available to do the same job, Windows system diagnostic tools are the first ones that can be used to check and repair errors. They are so well-integrated into the Windows operating system that sometimes only these tools are able to determine the cause of problems.
  
  

DirectX Diagnostics

• Modern computers use DirectX technology for a better user experience when it comes to graphics and audio output of games and videos. Windows DirectX diagnostic tool, which is accessible by typing "dxdiag" on the search box or the run utility, can help determine the cause of problems when a game or a video does not work well. The tool can check the installed drivers and see if there are any errors present. It can also determine if the video card features are enabled, such as hardware acceleration. Besides hardware acceleration for video output, this tool also has configurable settings for audio and network preferences. Different games require different versions of DirectX, but games usually run on the latest version even if they only require an older version.
  
  

Windows Memory Diagnostic

• Many computer problems can be attributed to failing computer memory. While software conflicts in the memory can cause similar problems, hardware issues are usually the root of the problem. Windows Memory Diagnostic is a tool that is used on boot-up to check the random access memory (RAM) module. It runs a series of tests on the hardware to check for errors and help you determine if the memory error is in the RAM or the motherboard memory. The standard test runs in less than 10 minutes, but a more comprehensive test is available to run for a longer time, recommended to be overnight.
  
  

Chkdsk

• Chkdsk, which is short for check disk, is a Windows diagnostic and repair tool that can check the logical integrity of computer drives. Many volume problems and errors arise from different causes such as human error, viruses and power interruptions. Chkdsk runs from the command prompt or from the Windows explorer. The user can specify specific parameters to tell the utility what to do. It may only search for errors on the drives or include automatic repair. Chkdsk requires exclusive access to the drive being scanned, otherwise it will prompt the user to just schedule the disk check, usually upon boot-up.
  
  

Network Diagnostics

• Windows network diagnostics can help determine any errors in the network connection such as limited or no connectivity. It runs different tests to check which aspect of the connection is causing the error. It includes tests in the Internet protocol, default gateway, Winsock, domain name service, firewall and the validity of the Internet connection. As some of the terms and procedures can be too technical, this tool is often used together with the help of a support person.