Tech Questions? Get the Answers: 2/19/2025

Troubleshooting Common Computer Problems

Nothing is more frustrating than sitting down at your computer, ready to get work done, only to run into an unexpected issue. Whether your computer won’t turn on, runs too slowly, or won’t connect to the internet, there are simple steps you can take before calling for professional help. Here are some of the most common computer problems and how to fix them.

COMPUTER WON'T TURN ON: If your computer won’t start, don’t panic. First, check the power source: make sure it’s plugged in correctly and that the outlet is working by trying another device. If it’s a laptop, the battery might be drained, so plug it in and wait a few minutes. If it still won’t turn on, try holding the power button for 10-15 seconds to force a restart.

COMPUTER IS RUNNING SLOWLY: A sluggish computer can be frustrating, but it’s usually caused by too many programs running at once or a lack of available storage. Close unused programs and browser tabs, restart the computer and check for software updates. If the problem persists, run a virus scan—malware can slow performance.

INTERNET CONNECTION ISSUES: If you can’t connect to the internet, check your Wi-Fi router. Restart it by unplugging it for about 30 seconds before plugging it back in. If that doesn’t help, restart your computer and try reconnecting to the network. If the problem continues, try connecting a different device to see if the issue is with your internet provider.

SCREEN IS FROZEN: When your computer freezes, you can often fix it by pressing Ctrl + Alt + Delete on a Windows PC or Command + Option + Escape on a Mac to force close an unresponsive program. If that doesn’t work, hold the power button until the computer shuts down, then restart it.

PRINTER WON'T PRINT: Check if the printer is turned on and properly connected to your computer. Ensure the printer has paper and ink and is free of paper jams. Restart both the printer and computer if necessary.

By following these simple troubleshooting steps, you can solve many common computer problems on your own. However, it might be time to seek professional assistance if an issue persists.

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