Quick Tip

130-2011

Problem Steps Recorder

When you need help solving a computer problem the best thing is to provide the person helping you with detailed information about what you are doing when the problem occurs. Lucky for you Windows 7 has a little known utility built into it called Problem Steps Recorder that can record your steps and help solve the problem.

TIP:  To launch Problem Steps Recorder, click Start, type steps in the Search box, and then select Record Steps to Reproduce a Problem. The Problem Steps Recorder will open: 

Now Click on the Start Record button and then start doing what led up to your problem. The utility will keep track of everything that you do, including where you click, what you type, which programs you open, make a screen shot of each step and collect some technical data regarding any error messages.

After you problem occurs, Stop Recording. You will be prompted to name the recording and it will be saved as a .Zip file. If you want to see what was recorded, open the .Zip file and click on the MHT file within. The recording will open in your browser.

Next transfer the file to a flash drive or attach it to an e-mail and get it to the person who is going to help you with your problem. They will be able to play the recording and see step by step what the problem is and be able to solve it.