In the following article we have set out some of the common Windows 8.1 problems and their solutions.

Blue Screen of Death

Though not a frequent error, the ominously-named ‘Blue Screen of Death’ (BSOD) strikes fear into the heart of most Windows 8.1, indeed all, Windows users.  The common message users encounter during a BSOD error is ‘DRIVER_IRQL_NOT_LESS_OR_EQUAL’ which means there is a problem with a Software or Device Driver.

According to Microsoft, the root of the problem is AvastSvc.exe, this file is related to the free Avast Antivirus software.  To resolve the issue, you need to uninstall Avast Antivirus and install any compatible antivirus on your computer.

Explorer crashes frequently

This problem can generally be fixed relatively easily. To fix Explorer crashes, follow the steps set out below:

1. Move your mouse to the upper-right corner of the screen and move the mouse pointer downward
2. Click Search
3. Type PC Settings in the Search box
4. Click PC settings from the list of Search results
5. Go to Settings
6. Select Change PC Settings > Update and Recovery
7. Open the Recovery option
8. Select Refresh Your PC Without Affecting Your Files

Windows keep losing WiFi connectivity

Many users complain of losing WiFi connectivity frequently or the WiFi connection shows limited connectivity.  The solution to this problem is often to download latest WiFi adapter Drivers from manufacturer’s website. You may be required to use another PC to download the drivers. After you have downloaded the drivers, follow the steps given below

1. Right-click the Network icon in the task bar
2. Click Open Network and Sharing Center
3. Click Change Adapter settings
4. Right-click on troublesome WiFi Adapter in Network connection
5. Click Properties > Configure > Driver – Select Update Driver
6. Select Browse my computer > Let me pick
7. You will get two options for Drivers – the Windows 8 Drivers and the ODM Drivers.
8. Choose ODM Drivers and select install

You can also use a Driver Update Tool to automate this process for you.

Windows does not wake up from Sleep Mode

The solution to this problem is to make the necessary changes in Power Management options. Follow the steps set out below:

1. Press Windows + X
2. Select Device Manager from the list
3. Locate Network Adapter and right-click on it
4. Select Properties
5. Click Power Management
6. Uncheck the box – “Allow this device to wake the computer”
7. Click Apply
8. Click OK

If the above solution does not resolve the issue, update the chipset Drivers from the manufacturer’s website or using a Driver Update Tool.