How to fix your PC — yourself!
Below is a list of things you can do to check your own computer for simple problems before having a technician repair it. If possible, be sure you back up important files before attempting repairs on your computer. Remember, if you are not comfortable doing any step, don't do it — call a repair specialist!
Start with the basics
Is everything connected? Physically check to make sure all cords and connections are fully seated. Make sure you check each cord, especially the monitor. Ensure the power cord is plugged into a surge suppressor, which will be plugged into a properly rated receptacle.
Shut it down
Executing a proper shutdown of your computer and waiting a minute before restarting is sometimes all that is needed to restore your computer to working order. If there is an Internet connection problem, also power off your router/hub/cable modem, wait a minute, then power up in reverse order. Always wait 1 minute between turning on devices; this allows them to reset themselves.
Power it up
Turn on the surge suppressor, then the monitor, followed by any peripheral devices [speakers, printer, scanner, etc.]. Lastly, turn the computer on. If it at any point a device won't power up, check them on a separate circuit which you know to be working. Is a breaker tripped or fuse blown? Check the breaker/fuse box. Try another appliance in the surge suppressor and wall outlets to make sure they both are getting power.
Malicious software ['malware'] checks
Always be sure your antispyware and antivirus [also known as 'security'] software is properly installed and up to date. The major antispyware/antivirus companies usually release updates at least once a week. If you do not have 'autoupdate' enable for these programs, download and apply these updates immediately when they are released. This way your software stays current with the newest threats, which is important since every month hundreds of new threats are discovered. Outdated software may pick up a newer version of an old threat but the newest ones can infiltrate and harm your PC.
After you check that software is updated, do a full scan of your system, for both spyware and viruses. Up to date antispyware/antivirus programs should take care of most threats.
If your security program(s) will not run or install, they may be damaged by spyware/viruses. Some of the newer threats are designed to disable out-of-date security software. If you can't get it to run, you may need to bring your PC in for malware removal/repair by a service technician.
Narrow the problem down
When a single program is not functioning properly, you can try reinstalling the particular program from the original software package. If the program causing the problem is one which has critical/irreplaceable data, back it up again.
Modem ['dial-up'] problems: check for dial tone
Dial-up Internet connections which cannot connect - if you do not hear a dial tone, hear static, or a loud "hum," have your phone lines checked by the phone company. Using an extra phone, plug it into the phone jack on your PC's modem. You should hear a dial tone. If your modem does not have a phone jack, unplug the phone cord from the modem and plug it into your phone. You should hear a dial tone to signify that your phone line is working properly.
Ventilation for your PC
Do you have all your vents exposed for free air circulation? Do all the fans run? If you cannot feel any air movement from your computer or you can see/hear that the fan is not turning, your computer could be overheating. Symptoms include: system 'lockup' or crashes, program errors, and component failure. Generally speaking, the newer the PC, the hotter it runs. Thus heat sinks and fans, once optional, are now absolutely critical.
Beware friends bearing gifts
Did your problem start right after someone installed a new program or peripheral? If so, try removing the program or device. Most newer software and peripherals come with a built-in 'uninstall' feature accessible from the program menu under the 'Start' button.
If none of these tips has fixed your problem, calling us is the next step!