Fix It: Automated Troubleshooting

An automated troubleshooting service introduced by Microsoft in 2008 continues to get updates and new features. The service is formally named the Microsoft Automated Troubleshooting Service (ATS) 1.0 but more likely will be recognized by the “Fix it” icon. It helps users find and fix problems with Microsoft OSs and applications using a Microsoft Web site. The service is similar to the Windows 7 troubleshooting packs and can reduce calls to organization help desks. (For more information about the troubleshooting packs, see “Tools Aid Troubleshooting Windows 7“.)

Online Service

PC problems can be difficult, time consuming, and expensive to resolve, especially if help desk staff become involved or IT staff must work with the physical computer at a remote location. Instead of calling the organization’s help desk, users often turn to the Web to look up error message definitions and resolutions. They may find a Microsoft Knowledge Base (KB) article that explains a problem resolution, but the procedure may be challenging for nontechnical users. ATS online Fix it solutions provide automated resolution of common software problems, sometimes with little user or IT staff intervention.