Having computer trouble? You can solve several common PC problems on your own. These are basic troubleshooting steps you should know.
The Basics
- Check that all plugs are connected properl
y. Confirm that your PC is plugged into an electrical outlet and receiving power. - If you just installed a new hardware device, try disconnecting it.
- If you see an error message, write it down, including the number and any text. Tell your MLANS technician or look it up at the Microsoft Fix it Solution Center. You can also check Microsoft Answers and Office Answers. The Microsoft Fix it Beta lists updates.
- Press the F1 key for help on many programs including Microsoft applications.
- Restart your PC when programs lock up or your PC stops working.
If you cannot access the “Shutdown” menu, hold down the <Ctrl> and <Alt> keys and then press <Delete>. In Windows XP, next click Shutdown, and then select either Shutdown or Restart.
If you are unable to restart your PC, and it shows a blue screen, press and hold the power button for about 10 seconds until the system shuts off.
Anytime you shut down your PC, wait 30 seconds to turn it back on again, giving the drives time to stop spinning
Note: Remember to back up your data before adding any major hardware or software to your system. Save all software installation media in case you need to re-install them.
Software errors
If programs refuse to install, won’t appear on your desktop, can’t seem to run without freezing, don’t load at a decent speed or function properly, or Internet access is unavailable, that indicates a software error. Here’s how to troubleshoot:
- Check for compatibility with your operating system and confirm that your PC meets the software’s minimum system requirements. If it doesn’t, you’ll be unable to run the program without upgrading your computer’s hardware. Note that PCs which barely meet or just slightly exceed these minimums may run the software more slowly and can be less reliable.
- Close open programs and windows that you’re not currently using. These can eat up system memory and processing power, slowing your PC or preventing additional software from running. Try running the program again.
- Check available hard drive space. Roughly 5 to 10 percent of your hard drive’s total storage allotment should be left free to ensure optimum system performance, to prevent crashes, and to keep Windows running at top speed. Use Disk Cleanup to free more space.
- Check for program updates and information on frequently encountered issues at the software manufacturer’s Web site. If you install an update, restart your computer, and attempt to run the program again.
- Uninstall unwanted programs to cut down on clutter and remove any drain on your system’s resources.
- Disable programs you don’t use to by preventing them from automatically loading when Windows starts. Restart your computer, and try the program again.
- Defragment your hard drive to improve performance.
- Use your own antivirus program to scan for viruses and spyware. Do not ever click scans that popup on the Internet.
- Reboot your computer and try loading the program again. If it still won’t load or work correctly, you may need to uninstall the software and then reinstall it from scratch and reboot again.
Hardware trouble
Should equipment fail to turn on, be recognized by your system, or function properly, follow these steps to address some of the most common hardware issues:
- Determine that equipment has been assembled correctly, by consulting your product manual or referencing the manufacturer’s Web site.
- Confirm that your device is securely plugged in and receiving power. For equipment that relies on an A/C (wall outlet plug) power adapter, you can double-check that the outlet is functioning correctly by plugging in another device and observing if it starts up or begins charging.
- Check to see whether equipment is properly connected to your PC by making sure all cables are securely plugged into the correct ports.
- Verify that hardware is turned on.
- Look for error messages displayed on either the equipment itself (commonly found on a small LCD screen) or on your desktop. Solutions for many of these can be found in your product manual or by checking this comprehensive database.
- Install or reinstall drivers for the device. Windows automatically searches for drivers when new devices are connected and notifies you of any available updates. It may be necessary to manually install them yourself, if these files are contained directly on the device, on a CD/DVD sold with the equipment, or on the manufacturer’s Web site. To activate setup, just double-click on the driver installation program.
- Confirm that you’re using the latest drivers for your hardware. Manufacturers routinely issue patches to correct errors and inconsistencies that users encounter. Check the Download or Support section of the manufacturer’s Web site.
- Reboot your system and test the device again.
Hard drive failure
In a worst-case scenario, system failure may be caused by a damaged or corrupted hard drive. There are many warning signs that may indicate this problem:
- Your system won’t boot.
- No operating system is detected.
- The computer hangs during startup.
- Your PC is making strange noises.
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