Checking crash logs on Windows 10 is a straightforward process that helps you diagnose and troubleshoot issues with your computer. By following a few simple steps, you can access the Event Viewer, where crash logs are stored, and find detailed information about system errors and application crashes.
How to Check Crash Logs Windows 10
This section will guide you step-by-step through accessing and interpreting crash logs using the Event Viewer in Windows 10.
Step 1: Open Event Viewer
Press Windows key + X and select "Event Viewer" from the menu.
Opening the Event Viewer is the first step in accessing your crash logs. You can also search for "Event Viewer" in the Start menu if you prefer that method.
Step 2: Navigate to Windows Logs
In the Event Viewer interface, expand the "Windows Logs" folder in the left panel.
The Windows Logs folder contains different categories such as Application, Security, Setup, System, and Forwarded Events. You will mainly focus on "Application" and "System" logs for crash information.
Step 3: Select System Log
Click on "System" to view system-related events.
The System log contains information about system-level events, including crashes and errors that could have caused your computer to malfunction.
Step 4: Filter the Log
Click on "Filter Current Log" in the Actions pane on the right.
Filtering the log helps you narrow down the events to those that are most relevant. You can filter by level (Error, Warning, Information) and by time frame.
Step 5: Look for Errors
In the filtered log, look for events labeled "Error."
Each error entry will provide details about what went wrong, including the event ID and a brief description. Double-clicking an event will give you more detailed information.
Once you’ve completed these steps, you should see detailed entries about system and application errors. These entries can help you pinpoint the cause of crashes and take appropriate action to fix them.
Tips for Checking Crash Logs Windows 10
- Regularly check your logs to catch issues early.
- Use the event ID and description to search online for potential fixes.
- Pay attention to recurring errors, as they might indicate a more serious problem.
- Save or export logs if you need to share them with tech support.
- Clear old logs periodically to keep the Event Viewer clean and easy to navigate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Event Viewer?
Event Viewer is a built-in Windows tool that logs various system and application events, including errors, warnings, and information messages.
How often should I check my crash logs?
It’s a good idea to check your crash logs at least once a month, or whenever you experience unusual system behavior.
What should I do if I find a lot of errors?
If you find many errors, try to read the descriptions and search for the event ID online. This can provide insights into resolving the issues.
Can I delete old crash logs?
Yes, you can clear old logs to make it easier to find recent events. Just right-click on a log category and select "Clear Log."
Are there other tools for checking crash logs?
Yes, there are third-party applications like BlueScreenView and WhoCrashed that can provide additional insights into crash logs.
Summary
- Open Event Viewer.
- Navigate to Windows Logs.
- Select System Log.
- Filter the Log.
- Look for Errors.
Conclusion
Checking crash logs in Windows 10 can seem like a daunting task, but by following the simple steps outlined above, you can easily access and interpret the data you need to troubleshoot system and application errors. Regularly checking these logs can help you catch problems early before they become more serious issues. Utilize the tips provided to make the process even smoother. For further reading, consider looking into third-party tools that offer more detailed analysis of crash logs, or consult Microsoft’s official documentation for deeper insights. Happy troubleshooting!

Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.