Troubleshoot PC Computer Problems in 5 Minutes

By JD Chang

Troubleshooting common computer problems is a huge pain in the butt. I know exactly 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 software or hardware 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 stronger and safer - with less malware and viruses. You have less concerns and fewer computer hacker guys trying to figure out how to defeat it.

Step 2. If it’s a software issue, uninstall the offending software application

How do you find the bad program? Whatever application loads and causes your computer to fail, or is running when your PC is extremely slow is probably the culprit.

You can also run a virus cleaning app or Resource monitoring program to determine which software apps are selfishly using the most resources or behaving erratically.

Then, remove the offending software program. Install the latest version, making sure you download patches for any driver updates.

Reboot your laptop or desktop computer - this should resolve it.

Step 3. If it’s a hardware problem, isolate the component and get a replacement hardware part

Let’s say it’s your disc drive. Your DVD/CD drive isn’t burning DVDs, doesn’t read a CD, or simply keeps making clicking sounds for no good reason.

There are only two choices - replace the bad drive, or find a local PC computer repair company (unless you’re still under warranty, have patience, and want to test manufacturer PC computer support).

Step 4. Cleanse your computer thoroughly

This means both the software and hardware. Use a pressurized wind can to eliminate dust from your keyboard, monitor, mouse, wire ports, and speaker outlets. Keeping microscopic particles out and your hardware parts clean will prolong their useful life.

Then, do a software cleaning. Defragment your hard drive. Install any new updates to your OS and key support pieces like AVG Anti-virus.

In addition, remove applications that you don’t use or “use rarely”. Delete docs and mpegs and music mp3 files that you rarely view. Clean your recycle bin. Use something like CCleaner to fix the registry and update drivers and remove DLL files.

Step 5. Turn your computer off and let it cool down

Don’t reboot your PC - that’s critical. Turn it off, unplug the power outlet, and let it rest for 24 hours. Often hardware is simply exhausted and needs to cool down for a short period to let key parts run smoothly once again.

That finishes our rundown of computer troubleshooting help! - 23544

About the Author:

JD Chang is a licensed computer technician specializing in PC repair. Click here to repair your broken laptop. Find the best PC computer troubleshooting now and save $1000s in the next 10 minutes!