Troubleshooting computer problems is a pain in the ass. I know how you feel.
In this article, I’ll discuss 5 easy steps to troubleshoot most PC computer problems, from software to hardware, from Windows to Macs.
Step 1. Determine if it’s a hardware or software problem
Usually it’s a stupid performance problem – either a very slow computer, or your monitor flickers, or the internet isn’t working.
Computer performance problems are 99% of the time caused by software – and 95% of the time it’s a Windows-based PC because they just fuck up a lot.
Macs are built simpler and cleaner – with less viruses and malware. You have fewer worries and fewer hackers trying to beat the shit out of it.
Step 2. If it’s a software problem, uninstall the bad program
How do you find the naughty program? Whatever program loads and causes your computer to crash, or is running when your computer is extremely slow is probably the culprit.
You can also run an Antivirus program or Resource management program to determine which software applications are hogging the most resources or behaving erratically.
Then, uninstall the offending application. Reinstall the latest version, making sure you patch it with any driver updates.
Reboot the PC computer – this should solve it.
Step 3. If it’s a hardware problem, isolate the part and get a replacement
Let’s say it’s your CD drive. Your rewritable CD drive isn’t burning CDs, doesn’t read a DVD, or simply keeps whirring for no reason.
There are only 2 options – replace the CD drive yourself, or find a local computer repair shop (unless you’re still under warranty, have a lot of patience, and want to test manufacturer computer support).
Step 4. Clean your computer thoroughly
This means both the hardware and software. Use a pressure wind blower to remove dust from your keyboard, monitor, mouse, wire ports, and so forth. Keeping dust out and your hardware parts clean while prolong their useful life.
Then, do a software cleaning. Defragment your hard drive. Install any new updates to operating system components and key support components like AVG Anti-virus.
In addition, uninstall programs that you don’t use or only “use rarely”. Delete files and mp3s and mpegs that you rarely view or don’t want to keep. Clean your recycle bin. Use something like CCleaner to repair the registry and key drivers and remove unwanted DLL files.
Step 5. Turn your computer off and let it rest
Don’t reboot your computer – that’s key. Turn it off, unplug the power cable, and let it rest for a day. Often hardware is simply exhausted and needs to cool down for an extended period to let key parts operate smoothly once again.
That finishes our tour of computer troubleshooting basics!