Computers are essential for business and personal use, but they don’t always work perfectly. Slow performance, crashes, and internet issues can be frustrating.
This guide will walk you through common computer problems and how to fix them—even if you’re not a tech expert.
1. Computer Running Slow
Causes:
🚀 Too many background programs
🚀 Low storage space
🚀 Outdated software or drivers
Fixes:
✅ Close Unnecessary Programs: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc (Windows) or Cmd + Option + Esc (Mac) and close unused apps.
✅ Clear Storage: Delete old files, clear cache, and use Storage Sense (Windows) or Optimize Storage (Mac).
✅ Update Software & Drivers: Go to Windows Update or System Preferences > Software Update on Mac.
2. Computer Keeps Freezing or Crashing
Causes:
🔴 Overheating
🔴 Corrupt system files
🔴 Insufficient RAM
Fixes:
✅ Check Temperature: Use HWMonitor (Windows) or Macs Fan Control (Mac) to monitor heat.
✅ Run a System Scan: On Windows, type cmd, then run sfc /scannow to check for corrupt files.
✅ Upgrade RAM: If your computer constantly freezes, you may need more RAM.
3. No Internet Connection
Causes:
📡 Router issues
📡 Incorrect network settings
📡 ISP problems
Fixes:
✅ Restart Router & Modem: Unplug them for 30 seconds and plug them back in.
✅ Check Network Settings:
- On Windows, run Network Troubleshooter under Settings > Network & Internet.
- On Mac, go to System Preferences > Network > Assist Me to diagnose issues.
✅ Test Another Device: If multiple devices can’t connect, your ISP may be down.
4. Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) on Windows
Causes:
💀 Hardware failure
💀 Driver conflicts
💀 Faulty updates
Fixes:
✅ Restart & Note Error Code: Search for the error code (e.g., “KERNEL_SECURITY_CHECK_FAILURE”).
✅ Uninstall Recent Updates: Go to Control Panel > Programs > View Installed Updates and remove the latest update.
✅ Check Hardware: Run Windows Memory Diagnostic to check for faulty RAM.
5. Mac Won’t Turn On
Causes:
🍏 Power issues
🍏 macOS corruption
🍏 Hardware failure
Fixes:
✅ Check Power & Reset SMC:
- For MacBooks with non-removable batteries: Press Shift + Control + Option + Power for 10 seconds, then release.
- For Macs with removable batteries: Remove the battery, hold Power for 10 seconds, and reconnect.
✅ Boot into Safe Mode: Hold Shift while restarting.
✅ Reinstall macOS: Boot into Recovery Mode by pressing Command + R on startup.
6. Printer Not Printing
Causes:
🖨️ Offline printer
🖨️ Driver issues
🖨️ Paper jam
Fixes:
✅ Check Connection: Ensure the printer is connected to Wi-Fi or the correct USB port.
✅ Restart Printer & Update Drivers:
- On Windows, go to Device Manager > Printers and update drivers.
- On Mac, go to System Preferences > Printers & Scanners and reinstall the printer.
✅ Clear Print Queue: In Windows, type “services.msc”, find Print Spooler, and restart it.
7. Laptop Battery Drains Too Fast
Causes:
🔋 High brightness & background apps
🔋 Old battery
🔋 Power-hungry programs
Fixes:
✅ Lower Screen Brightness & Close Background Apps
✅ Check Battery Health: On Windows, open Command Prompt and type:
powercfg /batteryreport
On Mac, go to Apple Menu > About This Mac > System Report > Power.
✅ Replace Battery if Over 3 Years Old
8. External Hard Drive Not Recognized
Causes:
🖥️ Faulty cable
🖥️ Corrupt drive
🖥️ Outdated drivers
Fixes:
✅ Try a Different USB Port & Cable
✅ Check in Disk Management (Windows) or Disk Utility (Mac)
✅ Reformat if Necessary (Warning: This erases all data)
9. Overheating Laptop or Desktop
Causes:
🔥 Dust buildup
🔥 Poor ventilation
🔥 Failing cooling system
Fixes:
✅ Clean Dust from Vents & Fans (Use compressed air)
✅ Elevate Laptop & Use a Cooling Pad
✅ Replace Thermal Paste on CPU if Overheating Persists
10. USB Device Not Recognized
Causes:
💾 Faulty USB port
💾 Outdated USB drivers
💾 Device malfunction
Fixes:
✅ Try Another USB Port or Device
✅ Update USB Drivers in Device Manager (Windows)
✅ Restart Computer & Reconnect Device
Conclusion
Most computer problems have simple fixes. Whether it’s slow performance, crashes, or hardware issues, following these steps can save you time and money.
📞 Still need help? Contact GLC Group for professional remote IT support!
