Wondering How Your Computer Is Performing? Here’s How to Check Device Health on Windows!

If you’ve been wondering about your computer’s performance and want a quick way to monitor its health, Windows has built-in tools designed for this purpose. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to use Windows Security, the Device Health Report, and a few third-party tools to check your system's health, spot any potential issues, and keep your laptop or desktop running smoothly. This guide is perfect for users looking to prevent problems, improve speed, and effortlessly maintain device health.

1. Windows Security – The First Line of Defense

Windows Security comes pre-installed on Windows 10 and 11 devices, offering an integrated approach to checking and maintaining system health. It monitors for malware, provides firewall protection, and helps keep your device safe from threats.

How to Access Windows Security:

Open Start and type “Windows Security.”
Click on Windows Security from the search results.
In the Windows Security window, you’ll see a dashboard with options like Virus & Threat Protection, Account Protection, Firewall & Network Protection, and Device Performance & Health.

Key Features of Windows Security:

Virus & Threat Protection: Monitors your device for viruses, malware, and other threats.
Device Performance & Health: Provides an overview of your system’s health, including storage capacity, app and software updates, battery life, and Windows Time Service.

Using Device Performance & Health: In the Device Performance & Health section, Windows Security highlights any issues affecting performance and guides you in fixing them.

2. Device Health Report – A Quick Health Check

Windows also provides a Device Health Report, which compiles your computer's health data into an easy-to-read report.

How to Access the Device Health Report:

Open Start and type “Windows Security.”
Go to Device Performance & Health in the Windows Security dashboard.
Under this section, click on Additional Info or Device Health Report.

What the Device Health Report Covers:

Battery: Information on battery life and health (for laptops).
Storage Capacity: Monitors disk space and alerts you when it’s low.
Apps and Software: Checks for outdated or problematic apps.
Windows Time Service: Ensures system clock accuracy for software functionality.

3. Using Performance Monitor – Advanced Health Tracking

Performance Monitor is a powerful tool that provides detailed insights into system performance. It’s great for real-time monitoring and tracking trends.

How to Use Performance Monitor:

Open Start and type “Performance Monitor,” then press Enter.
In the Performance Monitor window, expand the Monitoring Tools option.
Select Performance Monitor from the dropdown.

Performance Monitor’s Key Functions:

Real-Time Data: See real-time CPU, memory, disk, and network usage.
Customizable Reports: Create reports to track specific performance metrics.

4. Third-Party Tools for System Health and Maintenance

Windows tools are robust, but third-party applications like CCleaner, HWMonitor, and CrystalDiskInfo can offer additional insights. Use them responsibly for effective monitoring and maintenance.

5. Additional Tips for Maintaining Device Health

Update Windows Regularly: Ensure the latest security patches and optimizations.
Clean Your Device Physically: Prevent overheating by cleaning dust from vents and fans.
Manage Startup Programs: Disable unnecessary programs to improve boot time.
Run Disk Cleanup: Remove junk files and temporary data.
Defragment Your Hard Drive: For HDDs, defragmentation improves speed.

Wrapping Up

Monitoring your computer’s health on Windows is simple and effective. By using tools like Windows Security, the Device Health Report, and Performance Monitor, you can keep your system optimized. Supplement with third-party apps for advanced features and maintain your device with best practices for long-term performance.