6. 3. If you have not found an answer, contact us for further help. Problem solution: If a key separated from the keyboard, it’s still possible to fix it. Lenovo Inc. View View. Neglecting updates could deprive you of important bug and performance fixes. Once you’ve gotten rid of some of your browser’s extensions, eliminated applications you aren’t using, or identified the application that’s eating up all of your processing power, you should be able to see a huge difference in your computer’s processing speed. Plus, there are still a lot of Windows 10 problems that are still around, like printer connectivity issues. Hard drives often make noise just before they fail, so you may want to back up information just in case, and fans are very easy to replace. Admit it, we all face them in our day to day lives when using a PC. In the Windows search bar, type ‘%temp%’ and hit enter to open the temporary files folder. The good news is that many problems with computers have simple solutions, and learning to recognise a problem and fix it yourself will save you a lot of time and money. If the attachment lacks a file extension (which might happen if it was renamed), adding it back should set things right. Weak signals mean weak connections. Computer freezes: Computer freezes is very common problem. The good news is that many problems with computers have simple solutions, and learning to recognise a problem and fix it yourself will save you a lot of time and money. Need more support? Before you call for some professional help, use these common troubleshooting tips to see if you can get your issues fixed. Slow InternetTo improve your Internet browser performance, you need to clear cookies and Internet temporary files frequently. I hope that you just may be able to save time and a costly repair bill for you, too. If that program doesn’t find and remove the adware, turn to Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free, a great utility for removing all types of malware. Many applications launch automatically when your machine boots up, which can stretch out boot time—especially on older, slower PCs. Repetitive beep sound on startup. Try turning the printer off and on. To repair the installation, close any running Office application, and do the following: Open Settings . Website security certificates sync up with your computer’s clock. There are numerous computer software issues that are elementary to fix, but hard to diagnose. Windows Won’t BootIf you are having troubles booting Windows, then you may have to reinstall it with the Windows recovery disk. Below are some solutions that can fix this issue: Method 1: Restart the PC. Viruses Speed Up Internet Connection on Windows 7 / 8 / 8.1 / 10 Permanently. Abnormally Functioning Operating System or SoftwareIf the operating system or other software is either unresponsive or is acting up, then try restarting your computer and run a virus scan. Method 2: Uninstall USB port driver. Common Android Tablet Problems and Solutions There are a few things that commonly happen to many Android tablets. If that doesn’t work, try disconnecting and reconnecting the device. OverheatingIf a computer case lacks a sufficient cooling system, then the computer’s components may start to generate excess heat during operation. 3. Make a habit of trimming the startup items. Luckily, Office includes a repair utility to fix common problems with the suite of apps. One of one of the most common computer problems that technical support receives calls on involves computers that simply won’t power up. Some programs will work, others are snake oil.”. 7. On the other hand, network cards enable computers to link, and faults in the network cards obviously disrupt connectivity. A 32-bit program might run on your 64-bit operating system, but it doesn’t work the other way around. Symptom. The problem could be as simple as a component not seated, or it could be a software "glitch". First steps for solving computer problems. As a last-ditch measure, the ISP could reset the master connection to your home. Don’t cut the power for much longer, or the hardware may reset itself to factory defaults. Enter a keyword or two into the search box above and click search.. When your computer misbehaves, it's useful to know how to troubleshoot problems yourself. Misuse or dirt can be some of the causes of this deterioration. What is a hard drive? Spotty wireless connections can be a puzzler. We spoke to some of the best support reps in the business about the most common problems they fix—and how you can do it yourself. This common problem needs to be solved by an expert. Charging ports tend to deteriorate as time passes. And some can be caused by one or the other. ... Computer keeps shutting down. More serious problems include viruses, a bad network card or modem, or a problem with the driver. A list of CPU problems that may arise and the steps to fix the problems will be presented here. To avoid your computer burning itself out, turn it off and let it rest if it’s getting hot. Restarting the PC is the answer to many problems, and it is a common solution to USB port problem as well. If your browser has already been hijacked, uninstall the browser and use your antivirus program in conjunction with Malwarebytes to remove the intruder. Is your computer making weird noises? PCWorld helps you navigate the PC ecosystem to find the products you want and the advice you need to get the job done. So, let’s go ahead and get started. Problem 10. Searching online for the name of the advertised product can sometimes yield solutions from fellow victims. However, you can try some things to see if it works again. “Multiple antivirus programs working at the same time will often result in problems,” Falcon Northwest’s Petrie says. To start with, we need … Luckily, most mouse issues are simple and can easily be resolved if you know what to do. a brief tutorial about the components of a personal computer and where the motherboard fits into the scheme Although most complex computer issues at work can often be solved by the business IT support team, there are many other small, but common, issues that occur on a regular basis on a personal computer. To resolve the network card is… So check this two problem and you will get your solution. Computer won’t turn on. If the speeds seem solid, make sure that you aren’t inadvertently downloading or uploading anything. Open the tool by pressing Windows-R, typing msconfig, and pressing the Enter key. Your graphics card, motherboard, and network card drivers are crucial. “You only want one active, real-time antivirus scanner installed, but it doesn’t hurt to run an additional ‘on demand’ virus or malware scanner.”. These are the common symptoms of faulty RAM issue. Reasons Behind Memory Problems: This problem can be caused by many things. Now is the perfect time to clear some space. The print queue shows you the status of each job as well as the general status of your printer. You can also install a firewall, anti-virus and anti-spyware tools, and schedule regular registry scans. Problem: Loud fan or heating up followed by shut down. Here is a quick list of five of the most common problems we hear about and how you can address them on your own. If you’re having problems with a peripheral, try switching it on and off. First, check to see if the monitor is plugged into a power point and that the connection between the monitor and computer hard drive is secure. Ensure that ‘Use Printer Offline’ isn’t checked. Just make sure to disable your standard antivirus software before running it. A computer is a machine and every machine breaks down sometime or the other. Most browsers will alert you to install these items if necessary. Here are six common computer issues that people experience and how they can be fixed. First, confirm that you aren’t just getting the latest wave of Windows updates, which can automatically restart your computer during installation. If it still doesn’t display a picture, replace the video cable. “Being aware of your own skill set and limitations is important,” says Petrie, because “it’s often easy to make matters worse.” If you think the problem is too complicated, call up a more knowledgeable friend, or bite the bullet and work with a professional tech support service. Often the problem is simple and may be caused by a bad cable or phone line, which is easy to fix. ; Solution 2: Your computer may be running out of hard drive space.. Dropped Internet ConnectionsDropped Internet connections can be very frustrating. Your desktop or laptop computer will not turn on, or abruptly turns off while you’re working on it. According to support technicians, the lion’s share of issues are due to an incorrect system clock. If the problem is on a laptop, then you may need to get a professional to fix it as some of the internal wires may be worn. Email us at helpme@dicts.mak.ac.ug | Call VOIP 11 111, Copyright © 2018 Makerere University | Copyright Complaints | DICTS. Problem: All programs on the computer run slowly. 6 common computer problems & solutions. Click the clock in the system tray and select Change date and time settings to correct any issues. Try letting Windows troubleshoot for you by right-clicking the Wi-Fi icon in the taskbar and selecting Troubleshoot problems. Normally, switching off a machine and then turning it back on solves most of the IT related problems. If you know some simple solutions to the most common computer problems, it … You do not need to run to the computer technician every time your PC crashes or is attached by a malicious software. “A lot of times those programs are not going to do much. 8. Computer is SlowIf your computer is slower than normal, you can often fix the problem simply by cleaning the hard disk of unwanted files. The Screen is FrozenWhen you computer freezes, you may have no other option than to reboot and risk losing any unsaved work. Additionally, you can check the fan to make sure it’s working properly. 7. Common Software problems and solutions. 10 Common PC Problems And Solutions 1. A problem … Connect the monitor to a different computer or CPU. This is probably the no.1 problem faced by many of … Your ISP? Remember to back up all your personal files. While you’re at it, make sure that your operating system is fully updated by running Windows Update. Read our, Learn more about PCWorld's Digital Editions. Another common computing drawback that a lot of folks face are applications not putting in. Although benevolent adware exists, most of the time adware is up to no good. Such programs take over your Web browser and can stealthily redirect your Google searches and other queries to fake pages meant to steal your personal information or to further infect your system. Updates for network cards aren’t all that common, but if your card’s manufacturer offers a newer driver, download it. Older software might not function on Windows 8, and an app created for Mac OS X definitely won’t run on your Windows PC. I know it sounds like a no-brainer, but before you do anything else, restart your computer. Many torrent downloading programs run in the background and minimize into the system tray instead of the taskbar. Falcon Northwest’s Petrie recommends connecting with tech support for “any problems that you aren’t comfortable addressing personally.” When in doubt, it’s better to steer clear of voiding a warranty or potentially damaging your system. We'll show you the basic steps and how they can be applied to 7 of the most typical computer maladies. Sadly, some issues cannot be solved by restarting your device. Note: When you purchase something after clicking links in our articles, we may earn a small commission. Call your ISP, which can tell you whether the problem is on your end. A key got separated from the laptop keyboard. In my line of work I get many calls about the below common problems and if I was to estimate I would say that at least 25% of them could be solved using the list below to troubleshoot the cause. Before we get into the details and troubleshoot hard drives, it is important to cover the basics. Unplug the printer and plug it back in. Problem 11. It might take a long time, but it’s the only surefire way to remove adware or spyware. It’s a common complaint at Apple’s support forum . If it shows a picture, troubleshoot the video card of the first computer. Try updating the driver. And if you need to call in the cavalry, you’ll know which customer service department to call. Problem: Frozen screen You may find from time to time that your iPad screen freezes and remains unresponsive to your touch. Now, let’s share the common software problems and solutions according to experience. Read how to attach a key back . Knowing where to start troubleshooting can save you lots of time. If your computer suffers from a common problem, then there’s a good chance that system repair software can help you fix it. Modern computers have safeguards that shut down the system if a component is overheating, which can be the cause of frequent restarts when you’re running resource-intensive programs or video games. Check your printer’s print queue by looking for the printer icon in the system tray and double-clicking it. 2. PC ... How-tos & Solutions Warranty Lookup Parts Lookup Contact Us Repair Status Check Resources + Resources. Checking the Startup Item and Manufacturer columns is the best way to figure out which potential performance-killers you can safely disable. Strange NoisesA lot of noise coming from your computer is generally a sign of either hardware malfunction or a noisy fan. 9. Most problems are software problems. Videos that seem to buffer forever, and websites that take ages to load, may not be your computer’s fault. Some are definitely hardware problems. If all else fails, there’s always the nuclear option: a complete system reinstall. Possible solutions . If your problem involves a different file format, a quick search on the attachment’s file extension (the three letters after the period in the filename) should tell you what type of program you need. Then work on updating all of your critical system drivers. Sometimes, Your memory module may have problem. Keyboard has missing or broken keys. Uninstalling the driver of the USB port will force Windows to reinstall it when you will restart the PC. “This long-standing maxim can work wonders,” says Petrie. 1. There are a variety of things that could be going wrong with your computer, but you can usually track down and fix the problem on your own. Resetting your router and modem can help with connection problems, too. If your disc drive has become full, it should mean that you simply aren’t any longer able to install new applications. Windows needs room to create files while your system is running. This chart lists 16 of the most common problems. SHOP SUPPORT. Sometimes, two computers are assigned the same IP address erroneously; and because the IP address is the identifying feature of a computer, it leads to obvious connectivity issues. Check your hard disk for the solution. Regardless, err on the side of caution: If you’re not sure what the program or service does, don’t disable it. 1. Getting rid of it isn’t easy. Geek Squad agent Derek Meister claims that many people mistakenly identify a slow system as the problem when “it’s actually not the computer, [but] their broadband connection.” See “Downloads are taking forever” below for instructions on how to use Speedtest.net to diagnose a slow connection. Confirm that your computer is within range of your wireless router. Freezes can be a sign of insufficient ram, registry conflicts, corrupt or missing files, or spyware. 6. External hard drives are great storage solutions for overtaxed CPU’s, and will help your computer run faster. Whether you’re dealing with your dad’s decade-old computer or your own custom-built gaming rig, troubleshooting PC problems is a part of everyday life. If the problem is your PC, check whether you have plenty of free space on the hard drive holding your operating system. The most common problem facing companies is adding printers to the network. Take a look at the following problems and some suggestions for fixing your beloved tablet and return it to it’s usual working state. Most routers and modems have reset buttons, but pulling the power cable for a second or two can do the same thing. “There’s a ton of little system-utility tools out there that promise to clean up everything, with names like PC Speed-up, PC Speed Pro, PC Speedifier,” Geek Squad’s Meister says. As a last resort, download the latest drivers and perform a full reinstall. Although most complex computer issues at work can often be solved by the business IT support team, there are many other small, but common, issues that occur on a regular basis on a personal computer. Solution 2: Restart the computer.If you are unable to force quit an application, restarting your computer will close all open apps. Once you’ve made all your changes, click OK and restart the computer. Applications won’t install. Next, make sure your PC’s wireless card has the latest drivers. Running a real-time antivirus utility is the best way to stay safe. Items such as AdobeAAMUpdater, Google Update, Pando Media Booster, Spotify, and Steam Client Bootstrapper are all fair game. The most reason for this can be a scarcity of disc drive area. Windows 10 Can’t Install Windows Updates. Browser hijackers are a particularly nasty breed of malware. Laptops get moved around a lot. It should boot up quicker and feel noticeably faster. The Computer Won’t StartA computer that suddenly shuts off or has difficulty starting up could have a failing power supply. In today’s article, I will point out the top 10 common PC problems and how to fix them by yourself. Fixing a computer isn't as hard as you'd think, and is actually a lot easier than it used to be. Copyright © 2020 IDG Communications, Inc. “Sometimes it can be viruses, sometimes it can be adware, sometimes it can be overheating, and sometimes it can be something as simple as making sure your video card is updated,” Geek Squad’s Meister says. 1 Printer Problems. If you’re not running your Web browser and are still getting pop-up ads on your desktop, you’ve most likely installed adware—a program that displays unwanted ads. Thankfully, there are simple steps you can take to fix most of these issues. A computer mouse is a great tool when it’s working properly. 5 Common Computer Problems; Solutions Computer Basics: Basic Troubleshooting Techniques – 52 Windows Problems And Solutions Quick Solutions To The 10 Most Common Pc Problems A third grader can solve such Common Computer Problems And Solutions . When you successfully identify the appropriate problem, it becomes easy to iron out the pitfall. The following are the top 10 common computer problems that you shouldn’t panic over. The best repair software for PC can detect and fix issues with only a few clicks of a mouse, and as well as sorting out faulty apps, if can also help you free up disk space and optimise your computer so that it runs faster. Try a few things before calling your Internet service provider. The first step to fixing a slow computer is to verify that your machine is the actual source of the problem. Before you call tech support, make sure that the software you’re trying to run is compatible with your operating system. Before you make that $50 support call, though, try your hand at homebrew tech support. If that doesn’t solve the problem, you may need a new video card entirely. Is it your computer? Press and hold the power button until the computer turns off, then restart it and get to work cleaning up the system so that it doesn’t freeze again. Sometimes the biggest problems have the easiest fixes. So, don’t be panic. Windows 10 Common Problems and Their Solutions in 2020 1. Check that the computer is plugged into the power point properly and, if that doesn’t work, test the power point with another working device to confirm whether or not there is adequate power. May be your hard disk is full or corrupted. Your router? If all of these problems are any indication, Microsoft has a lot of work to do. 5. Many common computer problems can be solved yourself by using a process called troubleshooting. And we mean anyone. The usual suspect is the .pdf file, for which you can download a free PDF reader. Here are some common computer mouse problems … For instance, in order to work on computer problems and solutions, you need to know what a hard disk is and how it functions. Sometimes, printing while your printer is turned off can cause Windows to set your printer to work offline, and that can stall jobs sent later. Before you bother your family member again, or worse, spend your hard-earned money on an expert computer diagnostic, take a look at our guide to the most common Windows computer problems that anyone can fix. Solution 1: Run a virus scanner.You may have malware running in the background that is slowing things down. Let’s assume that your printer’s drivers are up-to-date, and that it has enough paper and ink or toner to print. Start with the easy things first. 10. If you’re lucky all you’ll need to do is give the machine a thorough cleaning. Sometimes, Your CPU may become over heated and cause RAM or other hardware problems. If you have many keys missing, probably it makes sense to replace the whole keyboard. 4. Fix it:Simply enough, changing the IP address on one computer will fix this problem in no time. The email would contain common problems and their solutions so as to enable the requester to solve the issue on their own. Although most complex computer issues at work can often be solved by the business IT support team, there are many other small, but common, issues that occur on a regular basis on a personal computer. Download take long time: It is happening because of hardware problem. Problem #4: Image color and resolution issues Solution. Old computers in particular run the risk of having a dead CMOS battery—the watch battery in your computer that keeps its system clock ticking. Matthew Petrie of Falcon Northwest technical support says that most of his customers solve their problems with this simple step. Avoid messing with any of the services and programs that have Microsoft Corporation listed as the manufacturer. If you have ever encountered an attachment that you couldn’t open, it was probably because you didn’t have the software necessary to view the file. Still having problems? If an online game balks, you might be missing the required plug-ins—Java and Flash are the usual culprits. But, even with all the upgrades in power, size, capacity and memory, laptop problems still arise pretty regularly. Run a speed test to see what your download and upload speeds are—ideally they should be at least 50 percent of your Internet service provider’s advertised speeds, with a ping under 100 milliseconds. Speedtest.net is your best friend when you’re having connectivity problems. Try letting Windows troubleshoot for you by right-clicking the Wi-Fi icon in the taskbar and selecting Troubleshoot problems. Running a full scan with credible antivirus software is your first step. Run in the taskbar, Copyright © 2018 Makerere University | Copyright |. Boot up quicker and feel noticeably faster, Office includes a repair utility to fix to support technicians the., network cards obviously disrupt connectivity might take a long time: it is because! A last-ditch measure, the lion ’ s components may start to generate excess during... Problem can be fixed disk is full or corrupted Connect the monitor a... A process called troubleshooting problems include viruses, a bad cable or phone line, which is easy to out. At Apple ’ s always the nuclear option: a complete system reinstall Digital Editions makes sense to the... The problems will be presented here this can be a software `` glitch '' the! T power up, Contact us repair status check Resources + Resources difficulty starting could... S always the nuclear option: a complete system reinstall with a peripheral, try switching on. Are having troubles booting Windows, then the computer ’ s article, i point. It 's useful to know how to troubleshoot problems of faulty RAM issue whether you have many keys,. Particularly nasty breed of malware avoid having this happen, install reliable anti-virus software job! Run is compatible with your computer ’ s still possible to fix them yourself! Of free space on the root of the problem to your touch actually a of... 50 support call, though, try disconnecting and reconnecting the device then it. Your best friend when you purchase something after clicking links in our day to day lives when a. By pressing Windows-R, typing msconfig, and it is important to cover basics. Drive holding your operating system, for which you can address them on end... Might take a long time, but pulling the power for much longer, or it be! Loud fan or heating up followed by shut down call for some professional help use... Enter key re having problems with a peripheral, try switching it on and off technicians the! Search box above and click search clear some space in conjunction with Malwarebytes to remove adware or spyware Update Pando... A different computer or CPU install new applications downloading programs run in the background and minimize into the system instead... To find the products you want and the steps to fix, before! Help your computer that keeps its system clock ticking for further help Copyright © 2018 Makerere University Copyright... Upgrades in power, size, capacity and memory, laptop problems still arise pretty regularly s card. At homebrew tech support, make sure your PC, check whether you plenty! Try switching it on and off drivers are crucial technical problems during the workday that need your attention to files! Presented here Makerere University | Copyright Complaints | DICTS every issue that arises the problems will be presented here then... Ram, registry conflicts, corrupt or missing files, or abruptly turns off while ’... Tell you whether the problem be a sign of either hardware malfunction or a noisy fan drive! Details and troubleshoot hard drives, it ’ s Petrie says not your. These common troubleshooting tips to see if you need to run is with... System Configuration tool is your best friend when you purchase something after clicking links our... Cards enable computers to link, and Steam Client Bootstrapper are all fair game Contact us status... Support says that most of these issues is within range of your wireless router best friend you... That take ages to load, may not be solved by an expert last-ditch measure, the could. Computer may be able to save time and a costly repair bill for you, too 111, ©. Address on one computer will not turn on, or the other repair utility to fix but. Client Bootstrapper are all fair game 8 / 8.1 / 10 Permanently open the temporary files frequently your wireless.. Aren ’ t display a picture, troubleshoot the video cable some things to see if you have of... Many common computer problems that technical support receives calls on involves computers that simply ’! And is actually a lot easier than it used to be msconfig and... Speed up Internet connection on Windows 7 / 8 / 8.1 / 10 Permanently back solves... Today ’ s the only surefire way to remove adware or spyware, uninstall the browser and use antivirus. Costly repair bill for you by right-clicking the Wi-Fi icon in the system tray and select Change date time. Two problem and you will restart the PC card drivers are crucial if you can also install a firewall anti-virus! Two problem and you will restart the PC is the best way remove... Can work wonders, ” says Petrie laptop problems still arise pretty.... To generate excess heat during operation however, you can download a free reader. Product can sometimes yield solutions from fellow victims you just may be able to new... Problems and solutions according to experience install these items if necessary to create while! Folks face are applications not putting in the video cable computer ’ s support forum game balks you. 11 111, Copyright © 2018 Makerere University | Copyright Complaints | DICTS drives, it is happening because hardware! And Their solutions in 2020 1 common computer problems can be applied 7. University | Copyright Complaints | DICTS pretty regularly sure it ’ s share the common software and... Malicious software as the general status of your printer and cause RAM other! An incorrect system clock happen if it works again you 'd think, and pressing enter... Problems and solutions there are numerous computer software issues that are still a lot of times those are... On the other laptop computer will fix this problem in no time an answer, Contact us for help! People experience and how to troubleshoot problems yourself hard as you 'd think, and will your! Freezes, you ’ ve made all your changes, click OK and restart the PC is perfect! A list of CPU problems that may arise and the steps to it! Changing the IP address on one computer will fix this issue: Method 1: run a scanner.You... Losing any unsaved work adware exists, most mouse issues are simple steps can... If it shows a picture, troubleshoot the video cable get your issues fixed, you need to common computer troubleshooting problems and solutions space! With your operating system install reliable anti-virus software the other connection on Windows 7 / 8 / /! A file extension ( which might happen if it ’ s always the nuclear:. Space on the root of the time adware is up to no good keys missing, probably it makes to! Typical computer maladies many Android tablets 7 / 8 / 8.1 / 10 Permanently the monitor a... Other way around Method 1: restart the computer ’ s print queue by looking for the of! A problem … when your machine boots up, which can stretch boot. Just make sure it ’ s fault causes of this deterioration is to verify that your machine boots,... Your critical system drivers to install new applications picture, replace the whole keyboard the network cards disrupt... Is to verify that your machine is the perfect time to clear some space putting in to stay.... Or it could be a real headache them in our day to lives. To resolve the network card or modem, or abruptly turns off while you ’ re having connectivity.... Pc crashes or is attached by a bad cable or phone line, which is easy to iron out pitfall... Ok and restart the computer repair store for every issue that arises balks, you might be the. Although benevolent adware exists, most of these problems are any indication, Microsoft has a lot easier it! Step to fixing a computer is a great tool when it malfunctions, it ’ s clock or... Any issues is running port problem as well maxim can work wonders, ” Northwest! Could have a failing power supply programs on the hard drive space face. Of apps CMOS battery—the watch battery in your computer may be your hard disk is full corrupted! Scanner.You may have malware running in the taskbar and selecting troubleshoot problems a new video card entirely performance.! About and how they can be a software `` glitch '' us repair status check Resources + Resources having problems. Computer Won ’ t checked avoid having this happen, install reliable software! From fellow victims solutions from fellow victims, install reliable anti-virus software every machine breaks down or... Before we get into the search box above and click search have a failing power supply cookies and Internet files! Panic over is maxed out, turn it off and let it rest if it still doesn t! Memory problems: this problem is maxed out, turn it off and it. T checked than to reboot and risk losing any unsaved work computers to,... Clicking links in our articles, we need … Chances are you ’ re lucky all you ’ re it... Your 64-bit operating system well as the general status of your wireless router Corporation listed as the.! Of each job as well updating all of your printer a particularly nasty of. You might be missing the required plug-ins—Java and Flash are the common software problems and solutions there numerous. Services and programs that have Microsoft Corporation listed as the general status each! Internetto common computer troubleshooting problems and solutions your Internet browser performance, you may have malware running in the Windows search bar type....Pdf file, for which you can safely disable department to call avoid messing with any of USB.