Tuesday, May 5, 2009

Troubleshoot PC Computer Problems in 5 Minutes

By JD Chang

Troubleshooting computer problems is a pain in the ass. I know how you feel.

In this post, I'll discuss 5 straightforward steps to troubleshoot most PC laptop and desktop problems, from hardware to software, from Windows OS to Mac Safari.

Step 1. Determine if it's a software, OS, or hardware error

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 80% of the time caused by software - and 80% of the time it's a Windows operating system computer because they just mess up a ton.

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 concern, uninstall the bad 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 an Antivirus program or Resource management program to determine which software applications are hogging the most resources or behaving erratically.

Then, uninstall the offending application. Reinstall the latest version, making sure you patch it with any driver updates.

Reboot the offending computer - this should solve it.

Step 3. If it's a hardware issue, isolate the equipment and get a replacement

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 hardware and software

This means both the software and hardware. Use a pressured wind spigot can to clear dust from your keyboard, monitor, mouse, wire ports, and speakers. Keeping small particles out of your hardware parts clean while prolong their useful life.

Then, do a software cleaning. Defragment your data drive. Install any new updates to your Windows OS and key support components like anti-virus program.

In addition, remove programs that you only "use rarely". Delete files and mp4s and docs that you don't want to keep. Use something like CCleaner to repair the registry and key drivers and remove DLL files.

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

Don't reboot your computer - that's key. Turn it off, unplug the power cable, and let it rest for a day. Often hardware is simply exhausted and needs to cool down for a short period to let key hardware parts run easily once again.

That finishes our examination of computer troubleshooting tips!

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