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Top 10 Computer Problems and How to Fix Them

Sara Carter

May 31, 2012

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Most people using computers today have no technical knowledge of how it functions. Just understanding how to work different software is enough in this modern world. It is not a must that you understand the operation of your system, but because of this, you will have to pay your fair share to computer technicians when problems arise.

You can save a lot of money if you know how to fix basic computer problems on your own without getting in touch with computer professionals to remedy each issue. Most of the problems you will encounter while using computers are not complicated, and some issues need some minutes or a few seconds to fix, and you can fix these problems, like the following common issues, yourself.

1. Failure to Start

If your computer fails to start, check whether you have really turned it on. If it is on, then you should check the power cables. You could have accidentally knocked the cord out of an outlet or disconnected your computer and forgot about it. The power cables could also be loose and in need of proper connection for your system to start up. This is an easy, fix but if have done all the necessary steps without any success, then you still may need professional intervention.

2. Freezing

Freezes are common problems. Fortunately enough, this is a simple problem to fix, as all you have to do is restart your computer in most circumstances. 90% of the restarts will actually get the computer up and running. Since it is difficult to shut your computer down using the manufacturer recommended steps, a five second press and hold of the power button will shut it down.  This is not the recommended way for a shut down, but sometimes problems have to be fixed using drastic measures. This will not hurt your computer as long as it is not repeated too often.

3. Unresponsive Printer

Usually this issue with a printer or other peripheral is caused by a loose cable. If you have a wireless printer there may a software issue or other connection issue. Powering the printer down and starting it up again may be able to recalibrate the printer to respond to your computer properly. You may also have another software conflict or a driver issue if you have recently made any changes to your system; you may just need to reinstall the printer to fix it.

4. Blank screen

This is a problem attributed to electric supply. Most computer screens are heavy-duty performance devices, and there are minimal chances of going faulty. Check the power connection to the screen, and if it is properly connected, then you should check the motherboard adapter to the screen or the video card. If they are faulty, you will need to replace them.

5. Failure to boot

If you realize that your windows in not booting, you should fix this problem by starting your computer using safemode. Safemode will allow you to restore your computer to a date that it was properly working. Going to safemode requires that you press the F8 key when it moves to the boot window. You can also start your computer using last working settings. If safemode is not working, then you will have to repair your operating system using a recovery disk.

6. System hangs

Windows is notorious with annoying hang-ups and stalling. If this happens, you should start by pressing Alt+Ctrl+Del. This will bring up the task manager, and then you can click on the unresponsive program on the processes list and click on “end task”. If this does not work, you will have to shut off your system manually. This can be done by holding down the power button for up to five seconds or until the system shuts off. This kind of shut off should be avoided, but it will solve the hang problem, and when you restart your system, it will be functioning properly.

7. Software not working

There are times when software will not work due to different reasons. You should start by checking the validity of the software. If it is still valid, then you will have to uninstall and reinstall it. Some software will not work due to system compatibility, and you will need to get a version that is designed for your system’s current configurations.

8. Network Problem

If you have a network-related problem, it is wise to first check whether the power cable to your hub’s power adapter is well connected. If it is in proper operation, then you probably need to manually input the IP address. If this does not work, then you should replace your ETHERNET cables. If all these fail, you will need to involve a computer technician to solve this problem.

9. Lost Data

If you accidentally delete important information from your computer (nothing related to your operating system), then you can recover the data using a full restoration of your system. If you have been backing up your data, you will have an easy time fixing this problem as all you will need to do is a partial restore from your backup. You can also use a recue CD which will scan your computer for deleted files and possibly restore them. This will be easy if you have deleted the files only a short while ago. Loss of data can be avoided by using internet storage facilities to backup important files.

10. Corrupt system files

System files can be corrupted by sudden power outages or system crash. Most people have backups and will not suffer from massive data losses, but any lost data can be a setback. You should therefore start by trying to restore the system files. For windows, fixing this problem is not much of a hassle as it has an in-built restore system to make this happen. This system makes miniature backups and can be a great deal of help if the worst happens.

This article is written by Sara Carter who likes social networks, google android, cyberdefender and psychology.

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