Software Repair Tool

Software Repair Tool is a lightweight application released by Microsoft to help users identify and resolve common issues found with Microsoft Surface devices with minimal effort. Instead of looking up the problems and finding a workaround on the Internet, it's easier to turn to this app which performs the scanning and fixing operation on its own, without any intervention on your behalf.

Although the utility can be installed on any Windows computers, its effects are only apply to Surface Book, Surface Book with Performance Base, Surface 3, Surface Pro, along with Surface Pro 2, 3 and 4. It's not necessary to install it since you can simply double-click the downloaded executable to reach the main app window and initialize the scanner.

The scanning procedure may take a long time, during which your device may respond to commands slower. It's recommended to connect your device to a power source before doing so, as well as to suspend your computer activity until the task is over. Microsoft also advises users to save important files and close running programs.

According to the text displayed on the screen during the scan, there are three major steps taken: verifying settings and files for issues (date and time, restoring default settings, fixing apps), checking the system (Windows Store, various PC issues) and updating the device. The last step requires restart. Fortunately, users have to confirm this action so there's plenty of time to save work. After reboot, Software Repair Tool runs Windows Update and asks you to restart again.

Concerning the types of Surface problems it can resolve, the application is a bit unclear. Although it's dedicated to casual users, it would've been useful if Microsoft released technical details about the activity conducted of this program, to better understand how it works.

On the bright side, a log file is created after repairs, where you can learn a couple of things about what the tool does. For example, it creates a system restore point before attempting any changes, so that you can go back to a previous state if any stability issues occur. It also starts a telemetry session and reinstalls missing system apps. However, it doesn't mention the exact system settings, files or apps it fixes.

The utility worked smoothly in our tests. According to Microsoft, Software Repair Tool cannot fix all types of problems related to Surface devices, but it can be your starting point and give you a bit of insight.