The present invention tests computer systems for defects that are able to
cause performance and functional problems. An agent application is first
installed on a user's system. The agent application then retrieves
problem data from the expert system library pertinent to the user's
operating environment. The agent application tests the user's system for
each problem description within a downloaded data structure from the
expert system library. If a problem is discovered, a script attempts to
remediate the problem and/or notifies the user, describing the issue. If
an unknown problem arises, a feedback mechanism sends a notification to
the expert system library that a problem was discovered. The feedback is
then utilized to increase the total knowledge in the expert system
library. Then when another user with a similar or the same setup is
tested, the agent application will recognize the issue and will take the
appropriate remedial actions.