Understanding Windows logs and BSOD files (Blue Screen of Death) is important in the operating system troubleshooting process. Windows logs store important data regarding various events that occur in the system, including errors, installations, and application updates. By analyzing these logs, users can find issues that may not be visible directly and take necessary corrective actions.
Meanwhile, BSOD files store information about serious errors that cause the system to malfunction. The data in this file is invaluable for identifying the cause of the error and finding the right solution. Therefore, this article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on reading and analyzing Windows logs and BSOD files, so that users can troubleshoot more efficiently.
Types of Windows Logs
Windows has different types of logs that are very important for the troubleshooting process. Here’s an explanation of each of these types of logs.
1. Text Log
Location: Folder Windows\Debug
Text logs are the easiest type of log to read, as they are stored in plain text format that can be accessed using a simple application like Notepad. These logs generally contain information related to auditing operations on the computer, such as the process of installing, uninstalling, or updating applications. In addition, the text logs also record details regarding the app’s crash, which can help diagnose the problem that occurred.
The characteristics of these logs vary depending on system activity. For example, logs that record errors from a particular app will only appear if the app crashes or malfunctions. One of the main advantages of text logs is the ease of access for general users without the need for special software. By opening a file in Notepad, users can instantly view the contents of the log and search for important information related to a specific event.
2. .xml and .etl logs
Location: Windows\Logs folder with organized subfolders
Logs stored in .xml and .etl formats have a more complicated structure compared to plain text logs. Within the WindowsLogs folder, these logs are grouped into subfolders based on their type and function, such as the SystemRestore or RecoveryDrive folders.
- .xml file: This file can be accessed using a web browser such as Edge or Chrome. This format is typically more organized and can store more detailed information about system activity, such as system restore logs or backups.
- File .etl (Event Trace Log): This file is used by Windows Event Viewer, a tool provided by Windows to monitor and analyze various events that occur on the system. If you want to open the .etl logs from another computer, you can use Event Viewer and select the “Open Saved Log” option. Inside Event Viewer, the opened logs will appear in the left panel in a section called “Saved Logs”. .etl files are often utilized by system administrators or technicians to understand various important events or errors in Windows systems in more depth.
3. File .dmp
Location: Folder Windows\MiniDump
.dmp files are records generated when a system experiences a serious failure, such as a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD). This file stores detailed information regarding the cause of the crash, including error codes and other details that are useful for analyzing the problem.
Unfortunately, .dmp files cannot be opened directly on Windows without the help of additional software. Here are some ways to open and read this file:
- Microsoft Visual Studio: If you have access to this device, you can use the Windows Driver Kit (WDK) or Windows Software Development Kit (SDK) to open and analyze .dmp files.
- BlueScreenView: This is a third-party tool that is easier for regular users to use. The app can be downloaded from the NirSoft website and automatically displays the contents of .dmp files from the MiniDump folder. With this tool, users can quickly find information such as Bug Check String and Bug Check Code, which can be used to search for solutions online or fix problems.
.dmp files often store important information about the main cause of the crash, including problematic drivers, hardware conflicts, or software errors. By using the given error codes, users can find out more about the problem they are facing and find the right solution.