Computers are high-tech devices and they are going to suffer problems from time to time. Sometimes issues are hardware related, but often computer glitches are because of software or the operating system.
In this post, we’ll cover some tips for troubleshooting some common computer problems so you can fix your own computer. Troubleshooting can often be a process of elimination when you’re not certain of the exact cause of an issue.
Here are some things to try when resolving problems.
Run a Full Virus Scan
If your computer doesn’t already have an antivirus program, you’ll want to install one to protect your system and your data.
Sometimes computer glitches can be the result of a virus or malware that’s found its way onto your computer. Running the deepest virus scan available with your antivirus software will find and remove any viruses or malware.
Virus scanning is something you should do regularly, whether your computer is suffering from problems or not.
Make a Note Of Any Error Messages
This is a handy step no matter what you end up doing to troubleshoot and fix a problem. Even if you end up taking it in for laptop repair services, it’ll help the repairer pinpoint the issue if you write down what the error message was.
If you’re doing your own troubleshooting, you can search the error message online and very likely find a solution to your problem that way. Chances are high that many other computer users have experienced the same problem and can offer a fix, or at least advise you on some things you can try to resolve the issue.
Try Restarting Your Computer
Sometimes it can be as simple as restarting your computer when it’s running slow or glitching out. If your laptop or desktop computer has been on for days and all you’ve been doing is putting it into sleep mode, the memory starts to clog up with more and more information.
If you’re having a problem, try doing a restart first and see if the issue resolves itself after a fresh boot up. Many small glitches or a computer running slow can be fixed by simply restarting the device.
Update Your Operating System and Software Programs
It’s best to set your computer to automatically download and install all the latest operating system updates. Many updates include bug fixes, as well as making your system more secure against hackers, viruses and malware.
The same goes for the software programs you commonly use. If the program doesn’t automatically update, check the “Help” section of the program and look for an entry that says something like “check for updates”.
If something wasn’t functioning properly before the update, chances are good it will work again after an update.
When your program really is having a lot of trouble functioning as it should, then you might need to uninstall and reinstall it.
What To Do When Your Computer Freezes Up
It happens from time to time. Suddenly everything on your screen becomes unresponsive. Nothing you click on works or your mouse might also be completely frozen.
The first thing to do if you’re using a PC is to try the Ctrl+Alt+Delete method to open the Task Manager. If this fails to work, press and hold the power button to force the computer to shut down. Again, if this doesn’t shut down the computer so you can restart it, unplug the desktop’s power supply. On a laptop, you’ll have to remove the battery to force it to shut down.
IT Solutions Cairns and Townsville
If you can’t troubleshoot and resolve an issue yourself, or you don’t want the hassle of trying to figure it out, then seek help from computer professionals. Some problems can be complex to resolve for someone who is untrained.
For computer repairs in Cairns and Townsville, get in touch with your local computer specialists at Future Computers. Our expert staff will get the problem resolved and within a quick turnaround time. You’ll be happy to know that our prices are fair as well.
If your computer is glitching out, pick up the phone and give us a call. We’re always here to help.