Computer problems are the most frustrating thing. Technology is a critical part of our lives. If your device doesn’t work properly, it can cause a serious disruption to your productivity. These tips will help you troubleshoot your computer at home before you take it to the experts.
How to troubleshoot your computer
It can be difficult to figure out the problem with your computer. It could be a Windows problem. Your hard drive? Battery? You can usually get it working by asking some questions. You may need professional technical assistance depending on the severity of your problem. This list should help you get started in solving common problems.
What’s wrong?
Find out the cause of the problem. Asking the right questions will help you eliminate the issue and get to the root cause. Try to reproduce the problem. These are some questions to consider:
- Is there a particular program that causes your computer to lag?
- Are you a recent user of a program that has been downloaded or installed?
- Is there a particular error code you are getting?
- Is the problem still present on your mobile device if it is an issue with a web browser?
- Have you had a major update before your computer crashed?
These are some common troubleshooting tips to help you.
1. Google is your friend
When it comes to finding the right solution for your problem, search engines are your best friend. Search engines won’t be able to help you with a vague problem, such as “my computer is slow”, or any other similar issue. You have a better chance of finding solutions if you gather more information and use more efficient search terms.
2. Reboot
Although we all know the “have you tried turning off your computer and then turning it back on again” trope, rebooting is a popular suggestion as it works. Turn off your computer by pressing the power button.
3. Verify connections
Make sure that everything is correctly plugged in. You could be experiencing problems with a loose power cable, a plugged keyboard, monitor, or other connection.
4. Keep checking for program updates
You should check if your operating systems is due for an upgrade. The steps will differ depending on whether you are updating windows or mac. You can uninstall or uninstall a program that is causing your computer’s crash.
5. Tasks in the background
Close any programs you don’t use if your computer is slow. If active programs are frozen, you can force-quit them. To force-quit active programs, you’ll need task manager for windows or the force quit window for mac.
6. Make sure you clean up the hard drive
A lack of storage could be the reason for your computer problems if you have less that 20% of your disk space. You should delete any files, programs, media, or documents that you don’t use anymore.
7. Run an antivirus program
If you are still having problems, run a scan to check for malware or other viruses. To catch malicious code, make sure you are using the most recent version of your antivirus program.
Although we cannot address every possible computer problem, this list can help you get started in diagnosing the issue. Other issues may also be caused by your computer hardware. This could include the power cord, motherboard, or any other component. Wi-fi is another potential problem. Before you bring your device in, run a speed check or contact your service provider.
Turn to the experts if all else fails. Computer troubleshooters offers comprehensive computer repair and IT services. Contact a local location if you are stumped.