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Windows 10 Troubleshooting: The Most Common Problems and How to Fix Them

We've got solutions for your Windows 10 problems, whether you're suffering from uncontrollable scrolling, update issues or your cursor moving on its own.

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Got Windows 10 problems? We've got answers. 

If you're running into problems on your Windows 10 machine, we promise you're not alone. Microsoft does release monthly  security patches and larger feature updates twice a year for the more than  1.3 billion devices worldwide  running on its software, but annoying problems still pop up. (And with support for the Windows 10 OS ending in a few years, now is a good time to consider upgrading to Windows 11 , which is free for all Windows 10 users.) 

Don't worry, though -- we've got you covered. Here are instructions for how to troubleshoot 10 common Windows 10 problems, collected from CNET's forums and other sites and message boards. One thing to note: There are often multiple ways to fix a Windows 10 issue, and what works for you may depend on your device's make and model and several other factors. (If you're still on Windows 7, you can still download Windows 10 for free with this trick . Just make sure to check out our guide to  everything to know before moving from Windows 7 to Windows 10 .)

Read more : Windows 10 tips: Secret Start menu, taking screenshots and more

Issues updating to the latest version of Windows 10

Microsoft's major feature updates arrive twice a year, the most recent being the May 2021 update , which included changes like multicamera support for Windows Hello and improvements to Windows Defender Application Guard. (The Windows 11 launch replaced what would have been the second major update this year.) Normally, though, you should get a notification when an update rolls out to your device. (Here's why you might still be waiting for the Windows 11 notification .) Or you can go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update  and click Check for Updates . If available, you'll see Feature update to Windows 10, version 21H1 . Click Download and install . 

If you're running into a problem or error updating, you can try the following, according to Microsoft: 

• Make sure your device is connected to the internet (you'll need an internet connection to update).
• Try to install the update manually, by following the instructions above. 
• Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter: Select Start  > Settings  > Update & Security > Troubleshoot . Under Get up and running , select Windows Update .

If the Troubleshooter doesn't fix the problem, check out Microsoft's guide for dealing with update issues . 

Not enough storage space to complete an update

Updating Windows 10 does require storage space, so you may need to free some up.

Windows 10 updates can require a good amount of drive space. If you run into an error due to a lack of drive space, here's what Microsoft suggests you do: 

• Save files you don't need on your desktop on an external hard drive or thumb drive, or in a cloud account like Google Drive or OneDrive. 
• Consider turning on the Storage Sense feature, with which Windows will automatically free up space by getting rid of files you don't need, like temporary files and items in the Recycle Bin whenever you're low on disk space or at certain intervals. To turn on Storage Sense, go to Start  > Settings  > System  > Storage , open Storage settings and turn on Storage Sense. Select Configure , or run it now. 
• If your device doesn't have Storage Sense, you can use the Disk Cleanup tool to delete temporary and system files. In the Taskbar search box, type disk cleanup , and select it from the results. Check the boxes next to the type of files you want to delete -- by default, Downloaded Program Files, Temporary Internet Files and Thumbnails are selected. 

Read more : The best antivirus protection for Windows 10  

Mouse cursor starts moving on its own

Sometimes your Windows 10 laptop or desktop cursor will start moving on its own, disrupting your work or browsing. Here are a couple of potential ways to fix it from Microsoft .

Run hardware troubleshooter . Press Windows + X , and select Control Panel . Go to Troubleshooting , and on the left panel click View all items . Select Hardware and devices troubleshooter and follow the instructions. 

Update the mouse and other pointing device drivers . Press Windows + R , type devmgmt.msc and hit Enter . Expand Mice and other pointing device drivers . Right-click on the driver of your mouse, and click update . 

Uncontrollable scrolling... and scrolling...

Your device keeps scrolling to the bottom of every menu and page even when you aren't moving the mouse. There are a few different ways to troubleshoot this. First, try unplugging the mouse or turning off its Bluetooth connection, and plugging it back in. 

You can also see if it's an issue with your browser. For example, in Chrome, you can try going to Preferences > Advanced > Accessibility , and turn on Navigate pages with text cursor . 

You may also need to update your mouse or touchpad driver. Go to Device Manager , and see if there are any warnings next to the names of your mice. If so, you'll be able to repair them there. 

Another potential fix: Try creating a new local user. This comes up often on message boards as a fix for a number of problems. You don't have to move all of your items over to a new account, but the act of creating a new user (or logging into another local account that already exists), logging into that account and then logging back into your account seems to help. To create a new user, go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users . Click Add someone else to this PC , and click the "I don't have this person's sign-in information" link. Click Add user without a Microsoft account  and enter a new username. 

Files opening in the wrong apps 

If your Windows 10 files start opening in different apps, there are a couple of fixes to try.

When you update Windows 10 your apps and files might go back to their default settings or switch settings. One way to change this is to go to Start > Settings > Apps > Default apps . Select which default you want to set, and then choose the app.

When you go to open a file, you can also right-click it to see your options. You can choose Open with and then Choose another app , and find which one you want. You'll see an option asking if you always want to use that app when opening that type of file. 

Trouble setting up 3 monitors 

After upgrading from Windows 7 or 8 to Windows 10, many users have reported that they are no longer able to connect three monitors. A user on CNET's forums recommended this fix: Plug in all monitors, and go to Control panel > Display > Change display settings . You should see all three screens displayed there. If one shows as disconnected (the screen is a darker color than the others), click that screen and choose Extend desktop to this display . (You might need to restart your machine once you plug all three monitors in, and then try this.) 

Bluetooth not working 

If you suddenly can't connect your Bluetooth headphones, mouse or keyboard, there are a few things you can try : 

Make sure Bluetooth is turned on . You can do this by going to the taskbar and selecting  Action Center (it looks like a message square). If you don't see Bluetooth, select Expand . You should then see Bluetooth, and be able to select it to turn it on. If your device isn't paired with any Bluetooth accessories, it will say "Not connected." Your other option is to go to Start > Settings > Devices > Bluetooth  and turn it on there. 

Check your Bluetooth device . Make sure your accessory is turned on, is charged or has fresh batteries and is close to your Windows 10 device. You can then try turning off the Bluetooth device and turning it back on after a few seconds. If it's still not working, make sure it's not too close to any other USB device plugged into a USB 3.0 port, since those can interfere. 

Check your Windows 10 device . Make sure airplane mode is turned off ( Start > Settings >  Network & Internet  > Airplane mode ). Try turning Bluetooth on and off (see above). Finally, try removing the device and adding it again ( Start > Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices . Select the device you're having trouble connecting, and choose Remove device > Yes ). 

If none of this works, Microsoft has some other tips for troubleshooting Bluetooth problems . 

Read more : How to pair Apple AirPods with your Windows 10 PC in less than a minute

Make sure you can connect your Bluetooth mouse and other devices.

Printer connection issues

Windows 10 supports most printers, but connection issues happen. To install or add a printer (whether it's networked, wireless or Bluetooth), go to Start > Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners . Select Add a printer or scanner . Your device should find the printer (assuming it's on and connected to Wi-Fi or the network) and let you select Add device . 

If your printer isn't in the list, select "The printer that I want isn't listed," and then follow the instructions to add it manually using one of the options.

If you're trying to install a local printer, you can typically just plug it into your USB port and follow the same instructions. If your printer stops working, you can try doing the process again.

Too many notifications

Windows 10 can be a little notification-heavy at times. If these pop-ups are interrupting your workflow, you can adjust them by going to Start > Settings > System > Notifications & actions . There, you can decide which notifications you want on or off. 

Cortana stops working 

Is Microsoft's virtual assistant Cortana not assisting you? A bunch of different things could be going wrong. Start by going to Start > Cortana > Settings and turning it off and on again. Then, check your microphone under Settings > Sound -- if you aren't using the default computer one, it may have been disconnected. 

You can also try restarting your device and checking for updates that may be in place to fix the issue. 

When you're ready to upgrade, check out the our favorite new features in Windows 11 . Until then, don't miss these six simple security changes all Windows 10 users need to make .

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14 Most Common Windows Problems and How to Solve Them

This tutorial includes a list of the most common problems in Windows 10 and 11 and basic tips to solve them. Nearly any Windows problem can be fixed using its own tools: system utilities and troubleshooters, advanced booting, Command Prompt, Control Panel, and the latest hardware drivers. Are you experiencing any of the issues below? There is a solution for each one.

1. Unresponsive Applications

3. blue screen errors, 4. hard disk/ssd failure, 5. mouse and touchpad issues, 6. registry errors, 7. audio not working, 8. windows login problems, 9. bios issues, 10. usb ports not working, 11. monitor/display problems, 12. bluetooth not working.

• 13. Windows Won't Download or Install Updates

14. Wi-Fi Disabled Suddenly

Frequently asked questions.

When a Windows application freezes, nothing moves on the screen, and even other programs feel unresponsive. Apps mostly behave like this because of overheating in the cabinet/laptop bottom and memory issues.

• To unfreeze the stuck applications, open the Task Manager using Ctrl + Alt + Del or from Run command Win + R followed by taskmgr .
• Right-click to end those tasks in “Processes.” If you managed to save your work, perform a clean reboot.

To determine an external cause of overheating, verify there aren’t any power supply issues. Check your laptop’s battery and AC adapter for any signs of trouble: if they have swollen in size, it’s time to replace the hardware.

Cleaning up the cooling fan may be required for a very old computer. If you have insufficient RAM, consider adding more of it .

Close on the heels of applications freezing, a slow PC is the bane of every Windows user. It can make completing the most basic tasks torture.

You can speed up your Windows 11 or 10 device even if you aren’t planning to upgrade the RAM anytime soon.

• Replace any antivirus with Windows Defender, the only antivirus you’ll ever need .
• Open the Windows tool, Disk Cleanup, in the search bar, which frees up space on your computer by erasing Windows updates, Windows upgrade log files, temporary files, Recycle Bin, and memory dump files.

• Disable startup apps from “Settings -> Apps -> Startup.” The only startup tasks you really need are services, such as Intel Graphics Command Center and Realtek Audio driver. Everything else is optional.

• Consider a cloud download of your Windows operating system. It downloads the latest system files from Microsoft’s servers to give you a fresh Windows installation. Once you click “Reset PC” in “Settings -> System -> Recovery options,” the option is displayed in a key step as shown.

• Periodically clearing the browser cache for Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge can also give you a slight boost in performance. If you’re using an older PC, consider uninstalling any RAM-intensive software and games.

There is no simple explanation for blue screen errors, but they do cause annoyance. Also known as bug check or stop code errors, they expose the fault lines of third-party software, hardware, Microsoft code, or some corrupted memory.

Each blue screen error has its own stop code that is displayed on the screen, such as “0x000000xyz.” They can be viewed in Event Viewer, which opens from Win + R by typing eventvwr.exe or eventvwr.msc .

After you see a blue screen, analyze dump files generated by the crash using Debug with Windbg . The best way to fix these errors is using Windows advanced startup menu (aka boot menu). To launch this, go to “Settings -> System -> Recovery -> Advanced Startup -> Restart.”

Use one of these options in the advanced startup menu:

• Uninstall Updates : usually, the blue screen is caused by incompatible drivers or third-party software.
• System Restore : reverting the operating system to an earlier date and time when the problem wasn’t there.
• Startup Repair : use if you havea blue screen due to boot issues.
• Factory Image Restore: reverting the PC back to the condition in which it was shipped (to be used only in extreme cases).

Outlined below are many other ways to deal with blue screen problems, depending on the stop code error source:

• Kernel data in page error
• Critical process died error
• WDF_violation error

In rare cases, the blue screen crashes may be caused by hardware. Look under the hood in motherboard and the power supply for the exact reason.

Whether you use a hard disk drive (HDD) or solid state drive (SSD), they can fail due to short circuits, data corruption, physical damage – or could just wear out.

To get a hardware health report for your HDD/SSD, run the following code in Command Prompt (Admin mode). If the answer is “OK,” the hard disk failure is down to software errors that can be easily fixed.

For any hard disk errors you’re facing, employ the following holy trinity of Command Prompt fixes (Admin mode).

This command does a complete health check of the hard disk. For more specific disk drive checks, modify it as chkdsk C:/f/x/r or chkdsk D:/f/x/r .

You should see a message similar to “Windows has scanned the file system and found no problems. No further action is required.” If not, move on to the next tool.

System File Checker

You can use sfc/scannow , which repairs the Windows-protected files and replaces corrupted drivers.

Next up, execute the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) commands in the order below:

SSD users should set their Power mode for “Best performance” in “Settings -> System -> Power & battery.” You don’t want your laptop to power off every time, as frequent discharging is not healthy for your SSD.

Moreover, defragment your hard drive disk (HDD) if you use one. This will eliminate any problems due to bad sectors in your disk drive. For SSD users, there are comparable disk optimization tools.

Another annoying issue is the mouse lagging behind in receiving inputs, or the touchpad freezing for no reason.

If you’re using a touchpad on a laptop, go to “Settings -> Bluetooth & devices -> Touchpad.” Leave the Touchpad toggle on when a mouse is connected. Enable all default touchpad sensitivity options.

You can correct your mouse settings from “Settings -> Bluetooth & devices -> Mouse.” Make sure “Left” is the primary mouse button and that the mouse pointer speed is at a comfortable level. Keep all the default options enabled.

After clicking on additional mouse settings, select a desirable pointer speed from the “Pointer Options” tab.

If the mouse or touchpad just aren’t working properly, they can be fixed via Device Manager. Open it by typing Win + R followed by devmgmt.msc . Select the desired mouse or touchpad hardware drivers. Right-click it to view its “Properties” and update or reinstall the drivers.

A corrupt registry in Windows 11 or 10 is a den of future troubles, as it spells DLL errors and crashes. It may occur in the course of using a computer frequently.

The best way to keep the Windows registry healthy is to clean boot your Windows device.

• Open the “System Configuration” app from the search bar or by typing msconfig in the Run menu.
• Head to “Services” and check “Hide all Microsoft services.”

• Click all third-party services, such as Google and other apps. They will need to be disabled. After a restart, Windows will offer a clean boot environment.

• The DLL errors in the registry can be traced to one of the key classes in the Registry Editor. Open it from Run command by typing regedit .
• Navigate to the exact path of any software causing trouble and create new keys or DWORD (32-bit) values by following troubleshooting requirements.

• The issues due to a corrupt registry are generally resolved after a simple Windows update. You can also use the sfc/scannow and DISM.exe commands in Command Prompt for additional protection.

If a laptop or desktop PC fails to produce any sound, you can no longer listen to music, movies, and YouTube or attend videoconferencing calls. Follow the steps below to troubleshoot.

• Go to “Control Panel -> Hardware and Sound -> Sound.”
• This will open a pop-up where you can see a checkmark next to the playback device you’re using. If it’s headphones, you will not receive any audio on the laptop speakers and vice versa. Do check for issues with wireless headphones .

• Windows 11 and 10 offer a default troubleshooter for each error source. Search for the “Find and fix problems with playing sound” troubleshooter option and enable it to apply repairs automatically.

• After running this troubleshooter, the audio problems should disappear. You can fix audio driver issues by restarting audio services from services.msc in Run.
• Turn off the option for sound effects and enhancements by going to “Settings -> System -> Sound -> Speakers.”

The most probable causes for sign-in problems in Windows are forgotten passwords or PINs. Therefore, it’s essential to store them safely. (Consider using a password manager for web, desktop, and mobile .)

If you still can’t log in, you might have multiple accounts on your Windows device. You can access them using netplwiz in the Run menu. Removing unnecessary accounts can fix login problems immediately. Restart the computer to ensure the problem is fixed.

To avoid login problems in the future, instead of shutting down from the Lockscreen window, go back inside the logged-in desktop for a proper shutdown.

For repeat troubles with login, sign in using Safe mode and run the Startup Repair tool as covered above. You can also “Disable fast startup” from “Power Options” in the Control Panel.

While a corrupt BIOS is enough cause to replace your computer or hard disk, in most cases, it’s a simple maintenance issue. You can access the BIOS menu by pressing the boot keys repeatedly after a Windows reboot. Depending on your PC manufacturer, the boot keys could be F2 , F6 , F12 , or Esc .

Once inside the BIOS Settings menu, look for an option that says “Load defaults” (ours is at the bottom under “Maintenance”), as it will load the BIOS defaults specific to your computer.

Once you set Factory or the current BIOS defaults, your Windows device will restore its settings after a quick restart.

Note : you will never face any BIOS issues if you have enabled UEFI mode .

When you notice errors such as “This PC can’t run the current version of Windows,” or the computer is stuck in the BIOS boot screen forever, you have to check and update the BIOS information. Otherwise, you shouldn’t handle BIOS settings.

Sometimes your PC or laptop won’t respond well to inserting or removing a USB device. If there is nothing wrong with the USB drive, it would indicate the USB ports may have malfunctioned.

• If there is no physical damage to the USB port, but it isn’t working properly, go to the necessary driver in Device Manager and check its “Properties.”
• The status may show “This device is working properly.” If it doesn’t, restart your computer and check it one more time.

• Right-clicking the USB driver in Device Manager leads to other options that let you install and update the drivers.

Are you facing issues in your monitor or display such as black screens, blank screens, haziness, or a distorted view? Just as with mice, keyboards, and other peripherals, these issues can be resolved from Device Manager.

Go to the monitor you use and right-click it to view the driver properties. If it shows a status such as “This device is working properly,” you’re good to go. However, if the drivers are shown as outdated, you need to update and reinstall those as in the previous example.

Here’s a simple trick to ensure there is no conflict with the monitor display. As it depends on the Power supply, you can accelerate it to ensure a timely display of graphics. Go to “Shutdown settings” from “Control Panel -> Hardware and Sound -> Power Options -> System Settings.” Check “Turn on fast startup.”

If you’re using multiple monitors on Windows , ensure that the primary and secondary monitors are properly marked. The scale of display resolution should be according to computer screen size recommendations.

Bluetooth is an integral part of the Windows experience. Whether it is mice, touchpads, headphones, USB devices, and smart gadgets, things don’t feel the same when Bluetooth stops working.

• Go to “Settings -> Bluetooth & Devices” and ensure your target Bluetooth hardware is paired successfully . Keep the Bluetooth toggle on for your device.

• If there is continued trouble with Bluetooth pairing, run a troubleshooter for Bluetooth. In Windows, this option is available by going to “Settings -> System -> Troubleshoot -> Other troubleshooters -> Bluetooth.”

• After running the Bluetooth troubleshooter, you may notice a few changes to your system. It will fix small issues, such as troubles with Bluetooth radio.

Following a simple restart, the Bluetooth pairing will be successful. If you continue to face problems, uninstall and reinstall the secondary Bluetooth device. You may additionally have to fix a few drivers from the Device Manager.

13. Windows Won’t Download or Install Updates

This problem can surface when you’re upgrading from a current version of Windows to something higher. You may find that Windows is taking way longer to download or install the updates.

• In most cases, the problem can be fixed with a simple PC restart and by refreshing the update screen. Go to “Check for Updates” and see whether the glitch is gone.
• If you still can’t pursue the necessary updates, run a troubleshooter for Windows Update from “Settings -> System -> Troubleshoot -> Other troubleshooters.”

• Running the Windows Troubleshooter can help you fix any security settings, missing files, or service registration problems. The same results can be achieved using SFC, DISM, and other file path correction tools.

Your computer Wi-Fi is what makes everything come together. If the Wi-Fi stops working suddenly, you can’t connect to the Internet. To fix Wi-Fi issues in Windows, follow the steps below.

• Go to “Control Panel -> Network and Internet -> Network and Sharing Center.” This will open a Network Connections window.
• Choose your desired Wi-Fi connection to disable and enable it.

• Ensure that the Wi-Fi router has not been giving you any trouble recently.
• Make sure you didn’t turn the Airplane mode on by mistake. You can disable it from “Settings -> Network & Internet.”
• If your Wi-Fi fails to show up altogether, try enabling SSID broadcast and a few other things.

What are the most common Windows error messages?

The most common error messages in Windows 11 and 10 are:

• Boot device not found
• Update errors
• Security certificate errors
• Blue screen of death (BSoD) errors
• Access denied
• Slow or no Internet connection

Why does Windows 10 sometimes become unstable?

Windows 10 is unstable because it lacks support for cutting-edge features, such as Trusted Platform Module (TPM), Virtualization-based Security (VBS), and UEFI Secure boot. While Microsoft intends to support Windows 10 until the end of 2025, you should consider migrating to Windows 11 , as it offers more stability thanks to an error-free user interface and several advanced functionalities.

How do I know if my Windows apps are faulty?

If you keep the SmartScreen filter on in Windows Security, it will alert you whenever downloaded apps cause trouble. It will also prevent you from installing such apps.

Image credit: Pixabay . All screenshots by Sayak Boral.

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Sayak Boral is a technology writer with over eleven years of experience working in different industries including semiconductors, IoT, enterprise IT, telecommunications OSS/BSS, and network security. He has been writing for MakeTechEasier on a wide range of technical topics including Windows, Android, Internet, Hardware Guides, Browsers, Software Tools, and Product Reviews.

How-To Geek

How to make windows troubleshoot your pc's problems for you.

Windows includes a variety of "troubleshooters" designed to quickly diagnose and automatically solve various computer problems.

Quick Links

Windows 7 and 8.

Windows includes a variety of "troubleshooters" designed to quickly diagnose and automatically solve various computer problems. Troubleshooters can't fix everything, but they're a great place to start if you encounter a problem with your computer.

Troubleshooters are built into the Control Panel on Windows 10, 8, and 7, so practically all Windows users can take advantage of them. On Windows 10's Creators Update , most troubleshooters are now available through the Settings app.

If you've installed Windows 10's Creators Update, you'll find these in Settings. Navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.

Related: Everything You Need to Know About the Blue Screen of Death

As of the Creators Update, the following troubleshooters are available here: Blue Screen , Bluetooth, Hardware and Devices, HomeGroup, Incoming Connections, Internet Connections, Keyboard, Network Adapter, Printer, Playing Audio, Power, Program Compatibility Troubleshooter, Recording Audio, Search and Indexing, Shared Folders, Speech, Video Playback, Windows Store Apps, and Windows Update.

If something isn't working properly on your PC, the associated troubleshooter may find and fix the problem for you.

Select the troubleshooter you want to run and click "Run Troubleshooter". Many troubleshooters will run automatically and fix problems they find, while some troubleshooters will suggest various fixes you can choose whether to apply.

The Settings interface doesn't list every available troubleshooter. For example, it omits the Background Intelligent Transfer service, Windows Media Player DVD, Windows Media Player Library, and Windows Media Player Settings troubleshooters.

These are still available if you need them---they're just buried in the Control Panel. To find them, open the Control Panel, type "Troubleshoot" into its search box, and click the "Troubleshooting" icon.

Click "View all" at the left side of the Troubleshooting pane and you'll see a full list of available troubleshooters.

You'll find these tools in the Control Panel on Windows 7 and 8. You'll also need to use the Control Panel if you're using  Windows 10's Anniversary Update  or an earlier version of Windows 10.

Navigate to Control Panel > System and Security > Troubleshoot Common Computer Problems. On Windows 7, click "Find and Fix Problems" instead.

You'll see a list of the most common troubleshooters you might need.

These aren't the only available troubleshooters. Click "View All" in the sidebar to view a full list of troubleshooters. Here's a list of the troubleshooters you might find, although not all versions of Windows include the same troubleshooters:

• Background Intelligent Transfer Service : Finds and fixes problems with the Background Intelligent Transfer Service, which Windows Update and some other services use for background downloads.
• Hardware and Devices : Checks your computer for issues with hardware devices. If a hardware device--particularly a recently installed one--isn't working properly, this troubleshooter can find and fix problems with hardware detection and drivers.
• HomeGroup : Looks for problems with your HomeGroup network and file-sharing settings.
• Incoming Connections : Checks if the Windows Firewall is blocking incoming connections you need and help you unblock them.
• Internet Connections : Detects and fixes problems with your Internet connection and loading websites.
• Internet Explorer Performance : Identifies problems that can slow down Internet Explorer and fixes them.
• Internet Explorer Safety : Identifies settings that can cause security and privacy problems in Internet Explorer and fixes them.
• Network Adapter : Finds and fixes issues with your Wi-Fi adapter or other network adapters.
• Playing Audio : Scans for problems that can prevent sound from playing properly.
• Power : Identifies and fixes problems with power settings to increase your computer's battery life.
• Printer : Checks for and fixes problems with printers and printing.

Related: How to Make Old Programs Work on Windows 10

• Program Compatability Troubleshooter : Helps you choose the best compatibility settings for running programs designed for older versions of Windows.
• Recording Audio : Scans for problems that can prevent microphone audio recording from working.
• Search and Indexing : Fixes problems with Windows Search and the indexer.
• Shared Folders : Identifies issues that can prevent shared network folders from functioning.
• System Maintenance : Finds and fixes broken shortcuts and performs and system maintenance tasks, including checking if your clock is the correct time.
• Video Playback : Detects problems that can prevent videos from playing back properly and fixes them.
• Windows Media Player DVD : Fixes issues that can prevent DVDs from playing in Windows Media Player.
• Windows Media Player Library : Fixes issues with Windows Media Player's media library.
• Windows Media Player Settings : Fixes issues with Windows Media Player's settings.
• Windows Store Apps : Repairs problems that can prevent Windows Store apps--in other words, Windows 10's new Universal Windows Platform apps--from working properly.
• Windows Update : Identifies and fixes issues that can cause Windows Update to not work at all, or fail to install some updates.

To run a troubleshooter, just click it in the Troubleshooting pane. To quickly find a relevant troubleshooter, you can perform a search from the Troubleshooting window.

The troubleshooter will launch after you click it. Just click "Next" to begin troubleshooting.

Most troubleshooters will run automatically, looking for problems and fixing any issues they find. To prevent the troubleshooter from automatically making changes to your system, click the "Advanced" link at the bottom left corner of the troubleshooter window and uncheck the "Apply Repairs Automatically" option. You'll be prompted with more information before the troubleshooter makes any changes to your system.

While most troubleshooters run automatically, some troubleshooters will give you options you need to click. For example, the Program Compatibility troubleshooter will walk you through choosing a program that isn't working properly and changing its compatibility settings. The Incoming Connections troubleshooter will ask you what you're trying to do so it know what type of incoming connection to troubleshoot.

That's about it. There isn't a troubleshooter for every issue you'll encounter, and the troubleshooters that do exist won't be able to fix every problem. But troubleshooters are a good place to start when you encounter a problem with something.

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How to solve the 10 most common tech support problems yourself

Whether you’re dealing with your dad’s decade-old computer or your own custom-built gaming rig, troubleshooting PC problems is a part of everyday life. Before you make that $50 support call, though, try your hand at homebrew tech support. We spoke to some of the best support reps in the business about the most common problems they fix—and how you can do it yourself.

Try this first

I know it sounds like a no-brainer, but before you do anything else, restart your computer. Matthew Petrie of Falcon Northwest technical support says that most of his customers solve their problems with this simple step. “This long-standing maxim can work wonders,” says Petrie.

While you’re at it, make sure that your operating system is fully updated by running Windows Update. Neglecting updates could deprive you of important bug and performance fixes.

If you’re having problems with a peripheral, try switching it on and off. If that doesn’t work, try disconnecting and reconnecting the device. As a last resort, download the latest drivers and perform a full reinstall.

My computer is too slow

The first step to fixing a slow computer is to verify that your machine is the actual source of the problem. Videos that seem to buffer forever, and websites that take ages to load, may not be your computer’s fault. Geek Squad agent Derek Meister claims that many people mistakenly identify a slow system as the problem when “it’s actually not the computer, [but] their broadband connection.” See “Downloads are taking forever” below for instructions on how to use Speedtest.net to diagnose a slow connection.

If the problem is your PC, check whether you have plenty of free space on the hard drive holding your operating system. Windows needs room to create files while your system is running. If your hard drive is maxed out, performance suffers. Now is the perfect time to clear some space.

Microsoft’s System Configuration tool is your next-best bet for tackling slow performance. Many applications launch automatically when your machine boots up, which can stretch out boot time—especially on older, slower PCs. Make a habit of trimming the startup items. Open the tool by pressing Windows-R, typing msconfig , and pressing the Enter key.

Checking the Startup Item and Manufacturer columns is the best way to figure out which potential performance-killers you can safely disable. Avoid messing with any of the services and programs that have Microsoft Corporation listed as the manufacturer. Items such as AdobeAAMUpdater, Google Update, Pando Media Booster, Spotify, and Steam Client Bootstrapper are all fair game. Regardless, err on the side of caution: If you’re not sure what the program or service does, don’t disable it.

Once you’ve made all your changes, click OK and restart the computer. It should boot up quicker and feel noticeably faster.

Downloads are taking forever

Speedtest.net is your best friend when you’re having connectivity problems. Run a speed test to see what your download and upload speeds are—ideally they should be at least 50 percent of your Internet service provider’s advertised speeds, with a ping under 100 milliseconds.

If the speeds seem solid, make sure that you aren’t inadvertently downloading or uploading anything. Many torrent downloading programs run in the background and minimize into the system tray instead of the taskbar.

Check your network hardware. Updates for network cards aren’t all that common, but if your card’s manufacturer offers a newer driver, download it. Resetting your router and modem can help with connection problems, too. Most routers and modems have reset buttons, but pulling the power cable for a second or two can do the same thing. Don’t cut the power for much longer, or the hardware may reset itself to factory defaults.

Still having problems? Call your ISP, which can tell you whether the problem is on your end. As a last-ditch measure, the ISP could reset the master connection to your home.

My machine keeps restarting

Hardware problems are hard to diagnose and solve. First, confirm that you aren’t just getting the latest wave of Windows updates, which can automatically restart your computer during installation. Then work on updating all of your critical system drivers. Your graphics card, motherboard, and network card drivers are crucial.

“Sometimes it can be viruses, sometimes it can be adware, sometimes it can be overheating, and sometimes it can be something as simple as making sure your video card is updated,” Geek Squad’s Meister says.

Is your computer making weird noises ? If you’re lucky all you’ll need to do is give the machine a thorough cleaning . Modern computers have safeguards that shut down the system if a component is overheating, which can be the cause of frequent restarts when you’re running resource-intensive programs or video games.

Pop-up ads are appearing on my desktop

If you’re not running your Web browser and are still getting pop-up ads on your desktop, you’ve most likely installed adware—a program that displays unwanted ads. Although benevolent adware exists, most of the time adware is up to no good. Getting rid of it isn’t easy. “There’s a ton of little system-utility tools out there that promise to clean up everything, with names like PC Speed-up, PC Speed Pro, PC Speedifier,” Geek Squad’s Meister says. “A lot of times those programs are not going to do much. Some programs will work, others are snake oil.”

Running a full scan with credible antivirus software is your first step. If that program doesn’t find and remove the adware, turn to Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free , a great utility for removing all types of malware. Just make sure to disable your standard antivirus software before running it.

“Multiple antivirus programs working at the same time will often result in problems,” Falcon Northwest’s Petrie says. “You only want one active, real-time antivirus scanner installed, but it doesn’t hurt to run an additional ‘on demand’ virus or malware scanner.”

Searching online for the name of the advertised product can sometimes yield solutions from fellow victims. If all else fails, there’s always the nuclear option: a complete system reinstall. It might take a long time, but it’s the only surefire way to remove adware or spyware. Remember to back up all your personal files.

Google doesn’t look right

Browser hijackers are a particularly nasty breed of malware. Such programs take over your Web browser and can stealthily redirect your Google searches and other queries to fake pages meant to steal your personal information or to further infect your system.

Running a real-time antivirus utility is the best way to stay safe. If your browser has already been hijacked, uninstall the browser and use your antivirus program in conjunction with Malwarebytes to remove the intruder.

My Wi-Fi keeps disconnecting

Spotty wireless connections can be a puzzler. Is it your computer? Your router? Your ISP? Try a few things before calling your Internet service provider.

Confirm that your computer is within range of your wireless router. Weak signals mean weak connections. Next, make sure your PC’s wireless card has the latest drivers. Try letting Windows troubleshoot for you by right-clicking the Wi-Fi icon in the taskbar and selecting Troubleshoot problems .

I keep seeing ‘There is a problem with this website’s security certificate’

Sometimes the biggest problems have the easiest fixes. According to support technicians, the lion’s share of issues are due to an incorrect system clock.

Website security certificates sync up with your computer’s clock. Old computers in particular run the risk of having a dead CMOS battery—the watch battery in your computer that keeps its system clock ticking. Click the clock in the system tray and select Change date and time settings to correct any issues.

My printer won’t print

Let’s assume that your printer’s drivers are up-to-date, and that it has enough paper and ink or toner to print. Try turning the printer off and on. Unplug the printer and plug it back in. Check your printer’s print queue by looking for the printer icon in the system tray and double-clicking it. The print queue shows you the status of each job as well as the general status of your printer.

Ensure that ‘Use Printer Offline’ isn’t checked. Sometimes, printing while your printer is turned off can cause Windows to set your printer to work offline, and that can stall jobs sent later.

I can’t open email attachments

If you have ever encountered an attachment that you couldn’t open, it was probably because you didn’t have the software necessary to view the file.

The usual suspect is the .pdf file, for which you can download a free PDF reader. If your problem involves a different file format, a quick search on the attachment’s file extension (the three letters after the period in the filename) should tell you what type of program you need. If the attachment lacks a file extension (which might happen if it was renamed), adding it back should set things right.

My favorite program isn’t working on my new PC

Before you call tech support, make sure that the software you’re trying to run is compatible with your operating system. Older software might not function on Windows 8, and an app created for Mac OS X definitely won’t run on your Windows PC. A 32-bit program might run on your 64-bit operating system, but it doesn’t work the other way around.

If an online game balks, you might be missing the required plug-ins—Java and Flash are the usual culprits. Most browsers will alert you to install these items if necessary.

When to throw in the towel

Falcon Northwest’s Petrie recommends connecting with tech support for “any problems that you aren’t comfortable addressing personally.” When in doubt, it’s better to steer clear of voiding a warranty or potentially damaging your system. “Being aware of your own skill set and limitations is important,” says Petrie, because “it’s often easy to make matters worse.” If you think the problem is too complicated, call up a more knowledgeable friend , or bite the bullet and work with a professional tech support service .

6 common computer problems... and how to fix them

No one likes it when your computer suddenly stops working, so we’ve listed the most common computer problems and explained how to fix each one.

The most common computer problems might be something a lot of people have to struggle with, but that doesn't mean you have to. Now you're here, you no longer need to worry about that spinning wheel of doom or the jolting error messages that come with a blue screen of death. You've found the fix.

A computer crash, when everything freezes, can be annoying at best but may be catastrophic if you're working and you end up losing your efforts. Yes, cloud storage is a great way to work to help offset this, but even that can have issues.

You may have already wisely invested in the best home computers or the best laptops , but there can still be issues. Often those issues are in the form of error messages which make little to no sense to a normal human being. That's why we're going to get ahead of the problems before they arrive, or at least know how to fix them should we run into trouble. While this guide will help you it's also worth checking out the best repair software for PC should you need to take this even further.

1. WiFi is slow or patchy

The most common issue these days that really grinds our gears is WiFi connectivity problems. Since most cloud-based programs now rely on that WiFi bandwidth to work, it has become the bottleneck through which everything else must pass. As a result, slow or inconsistent WiFi means much of what you're running can be backed up.

Slow WiFi can mean poor video chat connections on Zoom, it can mean buffering wait times for video and audio streaming, it can even mean documents are not saved properly leaving you at risk of losing work. That's all without even considering large file downloads which take up even more bandwidth. 

The fix While WiFi is a complicated beast, and everyone's setup is slightly different, the classic go-to first fix is one you probably already know and the one that works best: turn the WiFi off and on again. But there is an art to doing even this correctly. The key here is to make sure your connection is totally down, before you power on again. This means you'll be assigned a new IP address and any of your caches will be cleared. 

To do this right, go to your WiFi router and unplug it. That's a total power off, guaranteed. Then wait at least one minute. Ideally, if you can spare it, wait five for good measure. Then plug the power back in and wait for everything to get back online. This can take a good five minutes and may need a while to 'settle', so it's worth giving 10 to 15 minutes before you jump back in, ideally.

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Another good move is to restart any devices you're using, regularly. For laptops, phones and desktop computers, that means a shut down and power on at least once a day. You get to sleep and refresh, why shouldn't your hard working gadget?

To see how well this all works, carry out a speedtest first, then go through the process and do a speed test again. You may be surprised to see how much faster everything is running after this refresher. 

2. Blue Screen of Death (BSoD)

The 'blue screen of death' is one of the most recognisable computer errors that can occur, and if you’ve ever used a PC there’s a good chance that you might have encountered a blue screen of death error already.

What usually happens is that your PC will become unresponsive for a few seconds, and then the screen will turn completely blue and an error message (that’s sometimes completely indecipherable) will appear. Your PC will then restart, and if you’re lucky you won’t have lost too much work. 

While the name ‘blue screen of death‘ started off as a bit of a joke, it hints at how scary this error message can be. If you get a blue screen of death without saving your work, the resulting reboot of your PC can make you lose any changes you've made to a document.

While some blue screen of death errors are one offs, most of the time they are an indication that there’s something wrong with your PC, and there are a number of reasons why you may get a blue screen of death error. Failing hardware, corrupted software, missing DLL files or problems with drivers can be the main culprits. 

The fix The way to fix a blue screen of death error will vary depending on what caused it to appear. The good news is that in Windows 10, Microsoft has made the blue screen of death error message more useful than the baffling codes of old. 

There will also be a QR code that is displayed along with the error message. Use your smartphone to scan the QR code and you should be taken to a webpage that will explain the error message in more detail, and offer advice on how to fix it.

3. Windows is slow to boot

A slow-booting PC is one of the most common - and annoying - computer problems you can encounter. Luckily, it’s also one of the easiest to fix. There are several reasons why your PC will take a long time to load up - but the most common cause is that there will be too many programs trying to load up in the background when Windows starts.

You may notice when you install a new program that it sets itself to load when you first log into Windows. While this can sometimes be useful, as a means those programs open up quickly when you need them, when too many of them try to start up once it can slow your PC to a crawl. The easiest way to fix this problem is to identify what programs are loading up when Windows starts and disable any programs that you do not need.

The fix To fix this, open up the Task Manager in Windows 10 by pressing CTRL + Shift + Esc on your keyboard. In the Task Manager window, click on the ‘Start-up’ tab at the top of the window. This lists all the apps and programs that load when Windows 10 starts up. If this is a long list, that will be the cause of your PC being slow to boot.

In the Task Manager, you’ll see the name of the app followed by the publisher, its status and the start-up impact. If it says “High” in the ‘Start-up impact’ column, then that means the program is slowing down Windows 10’s boot-up speed. If you don’t need the app to load when Windows starts, then right-click on its entry and select ‘Disable’. This will prevent the app from loading when Windows 10 starts.

Remember, this doesn’t mean you won’t be able to use the app when you need it, it just means it doesn’t preload with Windows. Hopefully, disabling a number of these apps will make a noticeable difference to the time it takes for Windows 10 to load.

If you find that your PC is still slow to boot, there may be other issues affecting it. For example, you may want to check that you have the latest updates and drivers installed for your hardware. If you really want to give your PC a speed boost when it comes to boot times, then you may want to think about installing an SSD in your PC and running Windows 10 from that. An SSD (Solid State Drive) is a much faster drive than a traditional hard drive and installing Windows 10 on one can make a huge difference to how fast it boots.

4. Applications won’t install

Another common computing problem that many people face are applications not installing. The main reason for this is a lack of hard drive space. If your hard drive has become full, it may mean that you are no longer able to install new applications. If this is the case, then you’ll need to do a bit of spring cleaning.  

The fix First of all, you can delete any large files that you no longer need. Open up File Explorer and then navigate to your Downloads folder. This folder often holds lots of large files that you no longer need, so feel free to delete any large files from there. 

You can also free up hard drive space by uninstalling any programs that you no longer use. In the search box in the Taskbar (this is the bar that runs along the bottom of your screen in Windows 10) type in “uninstall”, then click on ‘Add or remove programs’. Scroll down the list of programs that is displayed and click on any that you no longer need. A button will appear saying ‘Uninstall’. Click it to remove the program from your PC. 

You can also get Windows 10 to clean up your hard drive for you. Again, in the search box of the taskbar, type in “disk cleanup” and then press return on your keyboard. From the window that appears, select the drive that you want to clean up. By default this will be the C: drive, which is where Windows 10 and the majority of the programs will be installed. Click ‘OK’, and Windows 10’s Disk Clean-up tool for scan your drive and find files that you can safely delete to free up disk space. From the window that appears you’ll see how much space you can save on your hard drive. Tick the box next to each type of file that you want to remove then click ‘OK’.

5. Windows Update problems

It’s important to keep Windows 10 updated to ensure that your PC runs as well as possible, whilst also being protected against the latest security threats. Even the best antivirus software won't keep you safe if your version of Windows is out of date. However, there are times when you may encounter a problem when updating Windows 10. 

One of the most common problems with Windows Update is when an update fails to install. You will usually see an error message appear explaining that the update has not been successful. Most of the time, this error message is quite good at explaining what the problem is and how to fix it, and one of the most common reasons for Windows update not installing is incompatible software. This means you may have an old version of an app or program that is preventing the Windows update to install. If this is the case, the error message should explain which program is causing the issue. 

The fix Either uninstall the program which is causing the error, or visit the developer’s website to make sure you have the latest version installed. Afterwards, try installing the update again. 

Another reason why a Windows update may fail to install is due to a lack of hard drive space. Each update requires a minimum amount of hard drive space to be available to install correctly, and if your hard drive is too full, then the installation will fail. To fix this problem, free up hard drive space using the methods we outlined in the step above.

If you find that your computer is behaving erratically after installing a Windows update, then it could be that the Windows update itself is causing the problem. To fix this, you will need to uninstall the update. To do this type in “Windows update” into the Taskbar search box and select ‘Windows Update settings‘. In the window that appears, click ‘View update history’. Then, select either ‘Uninstall updates’ or ‘Recovery options’ and follow the steps to uninstall the problem update. Make sure you check Microsoft’s support website to see if Microsoft has released a permanent fix for the problem update.

6. Apps behaving badly

Another common PC problem is when apps and programs start acting strangely. Perhaps they suddenly close down without warning, or maybe documents look a bit strange in Word. 

Once again, there is a wide range of reasons why an app may not be working correctly. 

The fix The first thing you should do is save your work, then restart your PC. Load up the app, and see if it is now working as intended.

If there’s still an issue, you next port of call should be an internet search engine, where you can type in the name of the program and a description of the issue. Hopefully, other people will have had similar issues, figured out how to fix it, and shared their solutions online. 

It’s also worth checking the website of the developers of the app to see if they have released a fix. If the developer’s website has a forum, that can be a good place to look for fixes. While you’re there, make sure you have the latest updates installed. If that fails to fix the problem, it may be worth contacting the app’s support team for more help with fixing the problem.

Luke is a veteran tech journalist with decades of experience covering everything from TVs, power tools, science and health tech to VPNs, space, gaming and cars. You may recognize him from appearances on plenty of news channels or have read his words which have been published in most tech titles over the years. In his spare time (of which he has little as a father of two) Luke likes yoga, surfing, meditation, DIY and consuming all the books, comics and movies he can find.

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100 common Windows 10 problems and how to solve them

Easy fixes for widespread issues

• Getting started with Windows 10
• Edge issues
• Improving Windows 10
• Speed up Windows 10
• Hardware and software issues
• Protecting your PC

Now that Windows 10 has overtaken Windows 7 as the most popular operating system , it’s bigger than ever. The sequel to Windows 8.1 has been out for more than three years now, and has given users plenty of time to figure it out. 

Luckily, most Windows 10 problems have been patched out by Microsoft over the last few years. There are still some security exploits and other bugbears that have either lingered or have been caused by recent Windows updates. This is in part because Windows 10 updates are still kind of a mess , the most recent of which, the October 2018 Update, caused all kinds of issues , including Blue Screen errors on Microsoft’s own Surface devices. 

That could be why the adoption of that update is only now starting to take off, just in time for the next one. 

If all of these problems are any indication, Microsoft has a lot of work to do. Plus, there are still a lot of Windows 10 problems that are still around, like printer connectivity issues. But, who knows, maybe Microsoft will actually fix some of these problems in the Windows 10 May 2019 Update , which should be out soon . 

Still, if you’re having a hard time with the operating system , we’ve compiled a guide to 100 of the most common Windows 10 problems, and how to fix them – whether it’s a Windows 10 problem with a printer or connectivity issues. So, if you’re trying to troubleshoot your device, keep reading.

1. Having enough space to install Windows 10

If you're planning to move to Windows 10, actually installing the OS is the first area you could potentially run into problems with. Installing a new operating system requires a certain amount of free space on your drive so that it can be downloaded and certain elements can be run successfully.

For Windows 10, the space requirement is 16GB, which should be kept free on the main system drive the computer uses. This is actually the same as previous versions of Windows, so if you've upgraded before you can most likely do it again.

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If you want to check how much space is left on your PC, go to My Computer (or This PC, depending on which version of Windows you’re running) where any drives you have will be listed. You can see the remaining space indicated beneath each drive, or you can right click and select Properties for a better overview (your system drive is usually C:)

2. Checking you have a powerful enough PC

Just as with space requirements, your PC will also have to be capable of running Windows 10. This means that it must reach certain minimum system requirements.

The requirements for running Windows 10 are relatively low: A processor of 1GHz or faster; 1GB (32-bit) or 2GB (64-bit) of RAM; 16GB of free drive space; Microsoft DirectX 9 graphic device; and a Microsoft account combined with internet access.

To find out your PC's spec, go to Control Panel and select System and Security, then System.

However, keep in mind that these are the minimum requirements, and you should shoot for higher specs to have a smooth and enjoyable experience. 

3. Activating Windows 10

Some users have reported issues with activating their copies of Windows 10, which could have been down to a number of different reasons. In some cases, the easiest way to get around the problem is to purchase a legitimate copy of Windows 10.

Unlike previous versions of Windows, the latest one is almost exclusively available online, which means that official Microsoft websites are the best bet for your purchase. The company was giving the OS away for free, but that promotion ended quite a while ago.

Microsoft has a helpful website that provides a downloadable copy in either 32-bit or 64-bit versions.

If you do find that you're unable to activate Windows 10 successfully, handily Microsoft introduced a new activation troubleshooter feature way back in the Anniversary Update. You'll find this in Settings, then click Update & Security, go to Activation and select Troubleshoot (you won't see this option if the OS has been activated).

4. Avoiding inconvenient software update reboots

Windows 10 is, in many ways, a truly internet-based operating system. Mostly, this is a bonus but there are times when it isn't – and Microsoft's attitude towards operating system updates is one such time.

The most annoying part of automatic updates is the restarting, which can seemingly come at random (and inconvenient times). The simplest way to counteract this is to head to Windows Update (in Settings > Update & Security), click on Advanced Options and then Notify to Schedule Restart, which means the OS will request a reboot instead of interrupting everything you’re working on.

5. Updating old software to work with Windows 10

Each version of a new operating system comes with its own set of backwards compatibility issues and Windows 10 is no exception.

The transition from Windows 8 .1 to 10 is far less jarring than the move from Windows 7 to 8 was, but there are still certain applications that can become broken and, in some cases, cease to work at all.

If a program isn't working with Windows 10, try looking in the Windows Store for an update and, if that doesn't work, delete and reinstall it. 

Now that Windows 10 has been out for a few years, most programs should be compatible with the operating system. If they aren't, then they likely never will be.

Consider moving to a newer version of the software, or if it's stopped being developed, it may be time to look for alternatives.

6. Changing privacy and Wi-Fi Sense settings

Data security is incredibly important, especially as hackers become increasingly sophisticated and the number of cyber-attacks is on the up.

Windows 10 comes with a decent set of built-in protection measures, but you can never be too careful. One such feature that should be disabled by privacy-minded individuals is Wi-Fi Sense, which automatically shares the Wi-Fi password across Windows 10 devices on the same account.

Microsoft updated Wi-Fi Sense to share less data, but switching it off is the ideal way of preventing anything you don't want happening. To turn it off, go to the Start Menu, select Settings and click on Network & Internet, then Wi-Fi, and head to Manage Wi-Fi Settings – turn off all the options in here.

Also in Settings, it's possible to get an overview of everything else happening on Windows 10 in terms of privacy – unsurprisingly, under the Privacy section. In here, you'll be presented with a bunch of toggles that adjust some privacy options to help keep everything under control.

7. Printer compatibility

If you have an older device, printer compatibility can turn into a real problem. If you’re upgrading from Windows 7 (or earlier) to Windows 10, you need to update all available printer drives, which will prevent them from not working post-upgrade.

Luckily, this couldn’t be easier. Just search for the name of your printer in the search engine of your choice, and download the latest Windows 10 compatible drivers – make sure you’re downloading them from the actual manufacturers website, though. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to install them, and you’re good to go.

8. Grappling with the touchscreen

Microsoft ships Windows 10 with Edge, the successor to its Internet Explorer browser (although IE is still present in the OS). For many people, however, using Chrome or Firefox is the norm, no matter what Microsoft wants.

To install Chrome or Firefox – and get back to normality – open Edge, search for either, and find a Windows 10 version. Download it, install it, and make sure it's set as the default browser option so that Edge doesn't keep reappearing. To do this, head to Settings, System, and click on Default Apps – click under Web Browser and you can then select your preferred default browser.

But, now that Microsoft Edge is moving to Chromium , you may have less of a reason to switch over. 

9. Grappling with the touchpad

Having a touchpad-enabled laptop is also good for Windows 10, but some users have reported that the upgrade from Windows 7 (and sometimes Windows 8) breaks it.

One of the ways to solve this is by first checking to see if your keyboard has a key that turns the touchpad off. If it doesn't – or the right setting is toggled – then head to Devices > Mouse & Touchpad > Additional mouse options.

A new window will appear. From here, select the tab that says Device Settings, then Devices, and then make sure the touchpad is enabled.

If none of these options work, press Windows Key + X, select Device Manager, then the option for Mice and other pointing devices, and update the driver. This should fix things.

10. Finding Safe Mode

Safe Mode is just what you'd expect – a safe way of booting up a PC and running the system with no startup apps and only essential drivers, which should hopefully allow the computer to boot successfully when it won't otherwise due to some issue or other.

With Windows 10, to access Safe Mode, hold down the Shift key during boot-up (or select Restart from the desktop while holding down Shift).

11. Making sure Windows 10 knows where you are

Location-based apps are fairly prominent in Windows 10 which makes it a good idea to let your PC know (roughly) where you are. Cortana, for example, can give far more information if it can accurately pinpoint where in the world it's being used.

To update your computer's location settings, head to the Start menu, click Settings, Time & Language, and click Region & Language – then make sure the correct country is selected. To turn on Location services, go to Settings > Privacy > Location, and flick the Location switch on.

12. Setting up Windows Hello

Windows Hello is one of the most innovative features that Microsoft has built into Windows 10. Essentially, it lets a user login just by using facial recognition (or a fingerprint) virtually instantly.

The software, which is available to all Windows 10 users, does require special hardware (and most likely won't work on older computers). Assuming you have the necessary hardware, how do you set up Windows Hello?

You need to go to the Start menu, click on Account, and select Change Account Settings. Select Sign-in Options and set a PIN. Once you've done this, there will be an option to Setup under Face. Select this and follow the instructions.

13. Finding files with tags

If you’re forever having trouble finding files on your PC, one way to keep track of them is to use ‘tags’ in Windows 10.

To tag a file, right click it, select Properties, go to the Details tab, and if you click on the Tags section (under Description) you can add a tag from there – simply type it in. You can then use those tags when searching – for example, you could tag a few files as a specific work project, all of which would come up when you searched for that term at a later date. 

14. Installing apps you’ve downloaded from the web

The move from distributing apps via the web to the Windows Store means that unfortunately it’s sometimes not such a straightforward matter to install software grabbed from the former. Programs like Windows Defender and Firewall, which we’ve talked about earlier, can try to combat potential malware by only allowing certain apps to install. 

If you’re having trouble, to get around this and install an app from the web, you may have to fine-tune Defender’s settings. 

To do this, go to the Cortana/search box (bottom-left, next to the Start menu), search for Windows Defender and you’ll need to access its Settings menu. You’ll be presented with a home page of sorts, so click on Settings. Once you’re in Settings, you’ll see a list of options related to various functions Defender performs. 

Tweaking these options is easy, and the one that will yield results for our purposes is Exclusions, which dictates the areas of the system that are left unchecked by Defender. You can click ‘Add an exclusion’ to add the file you’re installing and make sure that Defender doesn’t interfere with the installation.

15. Using Windows 10 gestures to work quickly

Is working with the keyboard and mouse too sluggish for your liking at times? Well, Windows 10 is a touchscreen-optimised operating system (just as Windows 8 was), and that means it can do a lot of cool stuff rather swiftly with just a finger prod.

For example, swiping in from the left will bring you to Task View, an overview of all the apps running currently. Swiping in from the right brings up Action Center, where notifications are displayed and settings can be changed. Swiping down from the top produces a title bar complete with minimisation tools.

To see the full range of gestures available, go to the Cortana/search box, and search for ‘touch’.

16. The power of virtual desktops

One desktop not enough for you? Well, handily enough, Windows 10 lets you run multiple virtual desktops so you can work across different projects on just the one monitor screen.

To fire up a fresh virtual desktop in Windows 10, click Task View (on the right of the Cortana/search box on the taskbar) and select the New Desktop option in the bottom-right corner of the screen. It’s as easy as that – and moving apps across virtual desktops is equally simple: just access Task View again and drag the app from one desktop to another. 

To close these desktops, go back to Task View and hit the cross. There is no limit on how many virtual desktops you can create, incidentally.

17. Work faster by ‘peeking’ at desktops

Productivity tips don’t just extend to keyboard shortcuts, especially in Windows 10 – there are other ways of accomplishing things more swiftly for those frustrated at their inability to get around the OS fast. One of the niftiest tools in this respect is ‘peeking’ at desktops, which can save time if you’re working across many virtual desktops (which we just discussed above). 

To do this, right-click on the thin button at the far right end of the taskbar and choose ‘Peek at desktop’. Now when you roll the pointer over it, it’ll show you a quick preview of the desktop and revert back when you move away.

18. Hover don’t click

Here’s another time-saving little trick that Windows 10 is capable of in order to smooth the path of those who get frustrated with sluggishness and want to speed up and streamline their usage of the operating system.

Say you have the Settings app and an Edge window open side-by-side. Settings is in the foreground but you want to scroll the Edge window. In Windows 8.1, you’d need to click on the window to do it. Not anymore. Microsoft changed how Windows 10 works so that just having the mouse pointer over Edge is enough. Pretty neat. 

19. Use Cortana to the max

Cortana is a virtual assistant of many talents, and can help Windows 10 users out in many different ways. However, you may not be aware of the full range of functionality Cortana offers – but there’s an easy way to find out.

Simply go to the Cortana box in the taskbar and type in:

Cortana help

This will list all of the commands and functions Cortana can take care of, which includes setting reminders or calendar alerts, creating lists, getting directions, working out sums and calculations, checking the weather, or your stocks, flight times and so on.

You might also want to check out how to fix a stuck Windows update .

Current page: Getting started with Windows 10

Max Slater-Robins has been writing about technology for nearly a decade at various outlets, covering the rise of the technology giants, trends in enterprise and SaaS companies, and much more besides. Originally from Suffolk, he currently lives in London and likes a good night out and walks in the countryside.

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5 Simple Fixes for Most Computer Problems

Try these ideas before you pay for computer service (and you may not have to!)

• Emporia State University
• The Ultimate Laptop Buying Guide

You may have already decided that the computer problem you're dealing with is too hard to fix yourself, or at least not something you're interested in spending your time doing.

We'd argue that you should almost always try to fix your own computer problem, but it's understandable if you're just completely against it. No hard feelings.

However, before you call tech support , or run off to the computer repair shop, we get one more shot to convince you to at least try something before you pay someone else for help.

Having worked in the computer service industry for years, I'm very familiar with the simple things that most people overlook, things that could completely eliminate the need to have a computer worked on at all.

You could quite literally save hundreds of dollars, and an equally valuable amount of frustration, by following some of the really easy things below.

Restart Your Computer

It's a long-running joke that the only thing tech support folks know how to do is tell people to restart their computers.

I've had the displeasure of working with a few "professionals" that might have inspired that joke, but please don't overlook this extraordinarily simple step.

More times than you'd believe, I'd visit a customer's home or business, listen to a long story about an issue, and then simply restart the computer to fix the problem.

Contrary to accounts otherwise, I don't have a magic touch. Computers sometimes encounter very temporary issues that a restart, which clears its memory and reruns processes, solves ( here's why ).

Make sure you restart your computer at least one time before scheduling computer repair with anyone. The problem, assuming it's of a certain nature, might simply go away.

If the computer problem you're having means that restarting properly isn't possible, powering off and then back on accomplishes the same thing. This same technique is recommended for basically any other tech device, like phones, TVs, and printers.

Clear Your Browser's Cache

Yet another joke, albeit a more recent one, is that clearing your browser's cache , that collection of recently visited pages that's saved to your computer's hard drive , is the fix for all possible internet problems.

That's certainly an exaggeration—clearing cache won't fix every broken website or internet related problem—but it is often helpful.

Clearing the cache is very easy to do. Every browser has a straightforward method for doing so, even if it's hidden a few layers deep in a menu.

If you have any sort of internet related issue, especially if it's impacting only certain pages, be sure to clear the cache before taking your computer in for service.

While most browsers refer to cache as cache , some call this collection of saved pages Temporary Internet Files .

Scan for Viruses & Other Malware

No doubt, scanning for a virus infection was the first thing that came to mind if a virus or other malicious program (collectively called malware) made itself obvious.

Unfortunately, most problems caused by malware don't always clearly point to an infection. It's great if your antivirus program warns you of a problem, but it won't always.

Often times, virus-caused problems appear as general computer sluggishness, random error messages, frozen windows, and things like that.

Before you take your computer in for any reason, be sure to run a full malware scan using whatever antivirus software you're running.

This tutorial is really helpful if you're not sure what you're doing, don't have antivirus software (we have links for several free options), can't access Windows, or can't run a scan for some reason.

Reinstall the Program That's Causing Trouble

A lot of computer problems are software-specific, meaning that they only happen when starting, using, or stopping a particular program that's installed.

These sorts of problems can make it seem like your whole computer is falling apart, especially if you use the offending program a lot, but the solution is often very simple: reinstall the program.

Reinstalling a program means to uninstall it , and then install it again from scratch. Every program has an automated process for removing itself from, as well as installing itself onto, your computer.

If you think the problem you're experiencing is software-specific, gather the original installation disc or download the program again, and then reinstall it.

Check out the tutorial if you've never reinstalled a software program, or you run into trouble.

Delete Your Browser's Cookies

No, there aren't real cookies in your computer (wouldn't that be nice?) but there are tiny files called cookies which are sometimes the cause of problems browsing the web.

Like the cached files mentioned above, the browser stores these files to make surfing the web easier.

If you're having problems logging into one or more websites, or you see a lot of error messages when browsing that other people don't seem to see, be sure to clear your browser's cookies before you pay for computer repair.

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Home » Tech Basics » Digital Literacy » Troubleshooting Basic Computer Problems

How to Troubleshoot Basic Computer Problems to Fix Your Computer

A big reason that discourages some people from trying to become familiar with computers and other digital technology devices is that they seem far too complex to understand. While that can be true in some respects, in a lot of other ways, it’s not. In fact, most consumer-grade digital technology is being made more accessible and intuitive all the time.

Just a heads-up that some of the services we’re reviewing here have affiliate partnerships with us, so we may earn a commission if you visit one of them and buy something. You can read more about how this works at https://techboomers.com/how-to-support-techboomers .

Part of that is making computers easier to fix when something doesn’t work correctly. And even computer troubleshooting isn’t always as difficult as you might think. To demonstrate, this article will give you some simple tips and techniques for how to fix a computer. Here’s a quick rundown of our agenda:

What is troubleshooting?

10 common computer problems and how to troubleshoot them, 7 general tips for troubleshooting computer problems.

Stick with us, and soon you’ll be a basic computer troubleshooting whiz!

“Troubleshooting” usually describes the act of fixing problems that cause machines (especially computers) to stop working, work sub-optimally, or otherwise do something irregular. Specifically, though, it actually refers to a particular problem-solving system that works through several steps.

A basic representation of the troubleshooting process looks something like this:

• Identify the specific problem – Determine exactly what it is your computer is not doing that you want it to do, or doing that you don’t want it to do.
• Consider relations to similar scenarios – Think about problems that you may have had with your computer before that were like your current one. Recall how those problems were solved, and consider what was the same or different in those instances.
• Hypothesize and treat common causes – Brainstorm some simple things that could make your computer not act in the particular way you want it to. Check and fix these things, and then see if that stops the problem and keeps it from coming back soon afterward. If it does, you’re done! If not, proceed to step 4.
• Test relevant components – If none of the common solutions work, methodically check parts (all of them, if you have to) of each system on your computer that could be responsible for the problem.
• Implement a solution on the problem component – If you think you’ve narrowed down what part of your computer is causing your issue, come up with a strategy for how to fix it, and then test it out.
• Verify that the issue is resolved – After working on the allegedly faulty computer component, if the problem is gone and doesn’t quickly start reoccurring (and, therefore, your computer is working normally again), you’re done! If not, go back to step 4.

Now that you know what the troubleshooting process is and how it works, let’s see it in action! Here are some common computer maladies and how to work through them.

1. My computer runs slowly.

General description:

Your computer takes a long time to boot up, programs take a long time to open, and both system and application functions take longer than usual to respond to your inputs.

Common causes:

• You have too many windows open at once, or too many programs running at once.
• Your computer’s registry is fragmented or corrupted.
• Your computer has installed a virus or other malware program.
• Your computer doesn’t have enough RAM to run all the programs you want it to.

Troubleshooting suggestions:

• Close any windows and quit any programs that you aren’t immediately using.
• Go to your Control Panel and uninstall old programs that you don’t use anymore.
• Open your Task Manager and stop programs or processes that don’t need to be running.
• Install and run an antivirus program to repair infected files.
• Take your computer to a repair shop to get its RAM upgraded.

2. I’m stuck on the “Blue Screen of Death.”

This is more officially known as a “STOP error,” and it shows up when your computer’s operating system determines that it can’t run your computer safely at the moment. It has various causes, some of which are more serious than others. Be sure to read the specific error message for hints on what went wrong.

• A piece of hardware on your computer is malfunctioning or is not compatible.
• The software controlling a piece of hardware (i.e. “driver” or “firmware”) is out of date.
• Your main hard disk doesn’t have enough free memory space available on it.
• Your BIOS or other hardware settings are misconfigured.
• Use System Restore to revert your computer to a state where it was working.
• Install updates for your operating system, device drivers, BIOS, and other programs.
• Change the settings for your BIOS and hardware back to their defaults.
• Make sure all hardware components of your computer are properly installed.
• Test your computer’s hardware for failures (likely RAM or hard disk ), and replace if necessary.

3. My computer won’t turn on.

You press the power button and your computer won’t turn on, or it powers up and then promptly shuts down. The good news (if you can call it that) is that this is almost always a hardware problem, so you can usually immediately rule out any software-related culprits.

• One or more power switches to your computer system aren’t turned on.
• Your computer’s power supply or power cord is missing, unplugged, or faulty.
• One or more of your computer’s hardware components are improperly connected or faulty.
• Your computer’s CMOS battery is out of power.
• The power button itself isn’t working.
• Make sure each switch leading to your computer’s power supply is on.
• Make sure all power cables on your computer are connected and set to the correct voltage.
• Remove all intermediary power sources and plug your computer directly into an outlet.
• Disconnect all peripheral devices (mouse, keyboard, etc.) before trying to start your computer.
• Open your computer case and make sure all hardware components are properly connected.
• Replace your CMOS battery .
• Replace your hard drive or motherboard.

4. My computer continually or randomly restarts or shuts down, especially while it’s booting.

Your computer randomly restarts or shuts down on you while you’re using it. Or, shortly after booting up, your computer crashes and shuts down or forces you to restart it. Like the “Blue Screen of Death” (which is sometimes associated with this problem), this can be caused by a few different things, and some of them require more work to fix than others.

• Your operating system is missing a key update.
• One or more of your computer’s device driver programs are out of date.
• Your computer’s motherboard, RAM, and/or hard disk are damaged.

How to troubleshoot it:

• Make sure you have installed all recommended update packages for your operating system.
• Make sure the device drivers for your computer’s hardware components are all up-to-date.
• Install, update, and run an antivirus program to repair infected files.
• Take out a RAM module and start your computer. If it doesn’t work, put it back and try another.
• Replace your hard drive and/or RAM modules, with an experienced repair person if necessary.

5. Parts of my computer are beeping or making strange noises.

You should hear minimal noise coming from your computer if it’s running optimally. But if the hard drive starts beeping, or other hardware parts start making more noise than usual, it could be a sign of a problem with your computer.

• A CD/DVD-ROM or external disk drive may be trying to access files (most of which is normal).
• One or more of your computer’s cooling fans are broken or working sub-optimally.
• A RAM module or other piece of hardware is malfunctioning or is incorrectly installed.
• The hard drive is close to failing.
• The motherboard has detected some other manner of problem .
• Remove any disks from your CD/DVD-ROM drive and disconnect any external disk drives.
• Clean your computer fans with something, like a compressed air can, or repair or replace them.
• Check the BIOS settings to make sure they’re running the fans correctly.
• Remove all RAM modules and then properly re-insert them.
• Remove any newly-installed hardware components and re-insert, repair, or replace them.
• Back up the files on your hard drive and then get it replaced.

6. My computer is overheating.

Parts of your computer feel abnormally hot when you touch them or put your extremities near them. This is usually a problem with your computer’s fans or other cooling systems, but that may have indirect causes as well, such as putting a bigger data load on your computer than it can handle.

• The airflow through your computer’s case is restricted or blocked.
• Your BIOS settings are running your computer faster than it can handle (“overclocking”).
• Adjust the BIOS settings to run the fans correctly and not run your CPU faster than it can handle.
• Make sure the vents to and from your computer’s fans aren’t blocked.
• Install and use a program that can control the speed of your computer’s fans.

7. My computer’s peripheral devices, like the mouse and keyboard, aren’t working.

Extra hardware devices that you attach to your computer – like a keyboard, mouse, or external disk drive ­– aren’t working or are acting differently than they normally do. This is mainly a connection or driver issue, but it may be something else.

• One or more of your computer’s connection ports aren’t working properly.
• Settings on your computer regarding the device have been improperly configured.
• The component itself isn’t working due to being damaged or dirty.
• Unplug the faulty device from your computer, then plug it back in (to another port, if you can).
• Go to your Control Panel and change your settings (start with “Ease of Access”).
• Clean the faulty device (taking it apart if you need to), or get it repaired or replaced.

8. My computer suddenly freezes while I’m using it.

You’re using your computer normally, when all of a sudden, the screen stops moving and your input devices don’t respond. It happens to most of us every once in a while, but if it happens repeatedly, you may have a bigger problem on your hands.

• A software program on your computer has experienced an error.
• One or more of your computer’s processes is taking up too much memory and CPU power.
• Open your Task Manager and stop programs that aren’t responding.
• Open your Task Manager and stop processes that are taking up a lot of memory or CPU power.

9. I think my computer has installed a virus or other form of malware.

As we’ve discussed, a virus or malware program can be responsible for all sorts of nasty things that happen to your computer: it slows down, unwantedly runs or changes programs, sporadically restarts or shuts down, repeatedly crashes, and more. Fortunately, its possible causes are relatively limited, and there’s quite a bit that you can do about one.

• You opened or downloaded a file that contained a malware program.
• You connected a device to your computer whose files were infected with malware.
• You visited a website that was infected with malware.
• Disconnect all removable disk drives from your computer.
• Download, install, and update the Microsoft Malicious Software Removal Tool .
• Download, install, and update a leading antivirus program .
• Disconnect your computer from the Internet.
• Reboot your computer in Safe Mode .
• Run the Malicious Software Removal Tool and the antivirus program you installed.
• Re-connect to the Internet.
• Make sure your computer’s built-in Microsoft Security Features are operating and up-to-date.
• Know how to spot and avoid unsafe files and sites on the Internet .
• Install browser extensions to detect and block malware before it reaches your computer.

10. My computer can’t maintain a connection to the Internet.

You can’t use a web browser or other Internet-related service because you can’t connect to the Internet. Or, while you’re using the Internet, you get an error message because your computer has disconnected.

• Your Internet router may not be plugged in or working properly.
• There may be too much distance or interference between your computer and your router.
• The driver for your computer’s network card may be out of date.
• Your computer’s network card may not be receiving the power it needs.
• Make sure your Internet router is plugged in and working. If not, repair or replace it.
• Move your computer closer to your router, and/or move obstacles out of the way.
• Update the driver program for your computer’s network card.
• Go to “Wireless Adapter Settings” in “Power Options” and set to “Maximum Performance.”
• Call your Internet Service Provider and inquire about the problem.

If you’re not quite sure what the problem is, or none of those solutions worked for you, our tips below might help you get your computer up and running again.

1. Turn it off, and then turn it on again.

Shutting down and restarting your computer resets programs and processes that may have been experiencing errors or glitches. This will usually solve minor problems quickly and easily.

2. If you don’t know something, ask!

Write down information that you don’t quite understand as it appears while you troubleshoot, like error messages. Then, discuss it with a computer-savvy friend or family member, or look it up online. Chances are good that someone else knows what it means and what to do about it.

3. Start with simple fixes, and then rule out possibilities from there.

Save yourself time, money, and hassle by starting with the easy solutions first, then trying more complicated fixes if those don’t work.

4. Check your device connections.

Something on your computer may not be working simply because it isn’t plugged in properly, or at all. Make sure all parts are secured snugly to each other and that all sockets are working normally.

5. Boot your computer in Safe Mode.

Starting your computer in Safe Mode disables some advanced functions of your computer. If Safe Mode works fine but a normal boot-up doesn’t, you’ll know that your computer has a problem with something like its device drivers, a rogue start-up program, or a faulty peripheral device.

6. Keep your programs up-to-date.

Updating your software can not only potentially fix current computer problems, but it may prevent future ones by fixing glitches and other security vulnerabilities that can be exploited.

7. If all else fails, re-install the operating system.

This will reset everything, including (theoretically) any programs, malware, or faulty settings that were giving your computer trouble. Make sure to back up your data before you do this, though, because you’ll need to load it back onto the system afterwards.

Now you have some basic knowledge for how to fix your computer if something goes wrong with it! For more info on how to make your computer and Internet experiences as smooth as possible, visit our Internet 101 section. Or check out our entire Technology Basics  category, which includes the Digital Literacy section with information and tips on mastering all things digital!

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15 Common PC Problems and How to Troubleshoot Them

There’s no need to rush off to the tech repair store for every problem your PC might have. A lot of usual computer issues can be solved quite easily on your own , allowing you to handle them with a few straightforward steps .

This guide is here to help you fix common PC issues by yourself. Below, you’ll find a rundown of the top 15 hardware problems that PC users encounter and how you can deal with them without outside help.

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1. PC Overheating

A heating PC slows down the entire system and can lead to frequent crashes. Moreover, PC components might permanently damage due to continuous exposure to heat.

There are two primary reasons your PC might overheat: either the cooling system isn’t functioning correctly, or the PC is generating more heat than the cooling system can manage. For both scenarios, I’ve detailed a comprehensive guide on various methods to manage an overheating PC. Make sure to check it out.

2. Dysfunctional USB Port

If your USB port stops working, it might not necessarily be broken. Here are some solutions that can help resolve this issue:

Method 1: Restart the PC

Restarting your PC can solve many issues, including problems with the USB port.

Method 2: Uninstall USB Port Driver

Uninstalling the driver of the USB port will prompt Windows to reinstall it upon restarting your PC, potentially fixing the issue. Here’s how to do it:

• Press Windows + R keys and enter devmgmt.msc in the Run dialog to open the Device Manager .
• Expand the Universal Serial Bus controllers option.
• Right-click the entry USB Host Controller and then click on Uninstall .
• Repeat this for all entries with USB Host Controller to uninstall drivers for all the USB ports.
• Once deleted, restart your PC, and Windows will automatically reinstall the drivers , fixing any driver-related issues.

Method 3: Disable USB Selective Suspend

The USB Selective Suspend feature in Windows saves power by suspending idle USB ports, but sometimes it might prevent a USB port from working. Here’s how to disable it:

• Press Windows + R keys and type powercfg.cpl in the Run dialog to open Windows Power Options.
• Click on Change plan settings next to your current plan, then click on Change advanced power settings .
• Expand USB settings and disable USB selective suspend setting .
• Restart your PC to see if the issue with the USB port is resolved.

Note: Keep this option enabled to save battery power. If disabling it doesn’t resolve the USB port issue, consider enabling it again.

3. PC Keeps Disconnecting from WiFi

If your Wi-Fi is functioning properly but your PC keeps disconnecting from it, the issue may be due to your PC’s network card not receiving full power. Windows features a built-in power saver option that reduces power to the network card. You’ll need to disable this feature by following these steps:

• Navigate to Advanced settings in the Power Options .
• Expand Wireless Adapter Settings and then Power Saving Mode .
• Adjust this to Maximum Performance .

Alternatively, if your PC continues to disconnect from Wi-Fi and the issue persists, the problem might be a faulty wireless adapter driver. Consider using Auslogics’ Driver Updater to detect and resolve issues with device drivers by fetching and installing the latest official driver software.

4. PC Beeps

The motherboard of your PC is equipped to detect issues and uses beeps of varying rhythms to communicate problems. For an in-depth understanding of what different beep patterns mean, check out this detailed article on interpreting these signals.

If your PC fails to start after emitting these beeps, solving the problem can be challenging. Nonetheless, I’ll discuss two common issues that cause beeps and how you can resolve them yourself.

Problem 1: RAM Displacement

One common issue I encountered is the RAM becoming loose or displaced, leading to 2-3 beeps from the PC without it booting up. The solution is straightforward: open up the PC (though laptop users might prefer professional help) and reseat the RAM. Here’s how:

• Clean any dirt from the RAM slot using a cotton bud after removing the RAM completely.
• Reinsert the RAM, applying sufficient pressure on both ends to ensure it is fully seated.
• Secure the clips, ensuring they’re properly locked, as even slightly loose RAM can prevent your PC from working.

Refer to this video for guidance on installing the RAM properly:

Problem 2: Issues with Newly Added Hardware

Beeps can also result from damaged or incorrectly installed hardware components. Remove any hardware you’ve recently added to see if it addresses the issue. If your PC functions correctly afterward, ensure the component is installed correctly or consider repairing or replacing it.

5. PC Fans Not Working

If you discover that one or more fans within your PC are not functioning, it might be due to accumulated dirt. You’ll need to open your PC and clean the fans and other components using a can of compressed air or a leaf blower.

For guidance on the cleaning process, watch this helpful video:

If cleaning doesn’t solve the issue, consider using the SpeedFan app to diagnose and possibly fix the problem. This app allows you to control your PC’s fans, though your motherboard must support fan control to utilize this feature.

6. PC Not Using Full RAM Capacity

There are times when your PC might not utilize all the RAM installed. For instance, you could have 4GB of RAM, but the Task Manager only shows 2GB in use. Often, this is due to a specific Windows setting.

Note: If a small amount of RAM (200-400MB) is not being utilized, it’s likely reserved for hardware use, and there’s not much that can be done about it.

The solution is straightforward – Windows may have been set to use only a part of the available RAM. Here’s how you can adjust it:

• Press Windows + R keys and type msconfig in the Run dialog to open System Configurations .
• Navigate to the Boot tab and click on Advanced options .
• Check the box next to Maximum memory and enter the total amount of RAM installed (in MBs).
• Click OK and restart your PC to apply the changes.

Good to know: While adjusting these settings, also consider checking the Number of processors option to ensure your PC is using all available CPU cores. Set it to the maximum number to utilize full CPU power.

If the issue persists, it’s possible that one of the RAM modules may not be properly installed. Attempt reinstallation to see if it resolves the issue.

7. Overworking Fan

Your PC’s fan speeds up based on your PC’s temperature—the higher the temperature, the faster the fan runs. If your PC’s temperature is normal (you can check it using HWMonitor), but the fan is still running at full speed, you might need to manually adjust the fan speed.

The SpeedFan app can help you monitor and adjust the speed of your PC’s fans. This issue of fans overworking typically occurs only with motherboards that have fan control capabilities, so compatibility with the app shouldn’t be a concern.

8. PC Crashes Before Loading the OS

If your PC crashes immediately after showing the manufacturer logo and before loading the operating system, the issue likely lies with the RAM or the hard disk. This means the operating system can’t load because the RAM is corrupted or the hard disk is damaged.

For those with multiple RAM slots, removing each RAM module one at a time and starting the PC can help identify the faulty component. Ultimately, you’ll need to replace the corrupted RAM or hard disk.

9. PC Isn’t Powering On

If your PC isn’t powering on at all, with no lights turning on, the problem could be with the power source.

Desktop users: Ensure that the extension cord, power outlet, and all connections are functioning correctly. If they are, try swapping the power cable with another one, such as the monitor’s, to see if the PC turns on. If this resolves the issue, you’ll need a new power cable.

Laptop users: Try removing the battery and then reinserting it before starting the laptop. If that doesn’t work, remove the battery again and connect the laptop to the charger to try powering it on without the battery. If the laptop powers on, the battery may need to be replaced.

Note: It’s also wise to disconnect any external devices from your PC when attempting these solutions, as a malfunctioning device could be the cause of the power issue.

10. Noisy PC

A noisy PC often signals the need for a thorough cleaning. You can clean it yourself using a can of compressed air or a leaf blower. Overclocking your PC’s GPU and CPU might also contribute to the noise.

Here’s a video demonstrating simple methods to clean your PC:

Sometimes, the noise could be coming from a disc in the DVD ROM. For more details on PC components that can cause noise, check out this informative article.

11. Noisy Hard Drive

Clicking or grinding noises from your hard drive are warning signs that it may be failing. Hard drives have a finite lifespan, and these sounds often indicate imminent failure. The CrystalDiskInfo hard drive monitoring tool can help assess the health of your hard drive, displaying conditions like “Good,” “Caution,” or “Bad.”

It’s crucial to back up your data immediately and consider acquiring a replacement hard drive before the current one fails.

12. Blue Screen of Death (BSOD)

The feared Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) can be triggered by both software and hardware issues, though it often points to hardware problems. It’s crucial to address BSOD promptly as it indicates significant trouble.

BlueScreenView, a helpful Nirsoft utility, provides valuable information following a BSOD event, aiding in the identification and resolution of the issue. Here are some common BSOD triggers and their fixes.

How to Fix “Apps Not Responding” in Windows 10

In my years of experience with Windows, I have faced the app not responding error as one of... Read more

Corrupted Drivers

Corrupted drivers can lead to BSOD. To diagnose and address this issue, follow these steps:

• Access Device Manager by typing devmgmt.msc in the Run dialog.
• Expand each category and look for any drivers marked with a yellow triangle icon.
• If any are found, right-click on the driver and select Update Driver Software to update it.

Alternatively, third-party apps like IObit Driver Booster can automate the process of identifying and resolving driver issues.

Excessive Load on RAM

Opening more programs than the RAM can handle might freeze the system and trigger BSOD. Limit the number of concurrent programs or consider upgrading your RAM to avoid this issue.

Faulty Hard Disk

A BSOD can also signal a failing hard disk. Refer to the guidelines in problem #11 to detect hard disk issues.

Overheating PC

An overheating PC may lead to BSOD if excessive stress is placed on the components. Follow the instructions provided in problem #1 to address this.

13. Blank Monitor

If your monitor displays nothing, it could indicate an issue with the monitor itself or the graphics card. Test the monitor with another PC to determine the source of the problem.

If the monitor doesn’t power on at all, try replacing the power cable with one that’s known to work. For more troubleshooting tips, here’s a useful article on fixing a monitor that shows nothing.

14. Monitor Goes Black After a Few Seconds

If your monitor goes black after displaying for a few seconds, it may be related to color quality or screen adjustment settings. Try pressing the auto-adjust button on your monitor. If that doesn’t resolve the issue, consider changing the display color from 32-bit to 16-bit.

Connecting your PC to a different monitor to adjust the graphics card settings could also be helpful. Using the auto-adjust feature might briefly restore the display, allowing you to tweak the color settings in that short window.

15. Keyboard Issues

If your keyboard is noisy or fails to type repeated words correctly, it’s likely not a hardware issue. Windows settings such as toggle keys and filter keys might be activated, leading to these symptoms. To disable them, follow these steps:

• Access the Control Panel and select Ease of Access .
• Click on Change how your keyboard works .
• Uncheck the boxes next to Toggle keys and Filter Keys to resolve the issue.

How to Fix Mouse Left-click Malfunction in Windows

Some of the most accepted solutions to fix left-click not working issue on your Windows. Read more

Wrapping Up

While many hardware issues can be resolved by adjusting settings or using specific software, some problems may necessitate a trip to the computer repair shop. Knowing what’s wrong with your PC enables you to take appropriate action. We’d love to hear about any PC hardware problems you’ve encountered and how you solved them, so please share your experiences in the comments.

5 easy fixes for common computer problems

DIY computer repair.

By David Nield | Published Jan 3, 2021 3:04 PM EST

Many of us are so reliant on our computers that it’s a serious problem when something goes wrong—akin to the power going out or the water getting cut off. Of course you want to get your system back up and running as quickly as you can, but that’s often easier said than done. It’s no exaggeration to say an almost limitless number of things can go wrong with a computer, because everyone’s system and settings are different. It can seem almost impossible knowing where to begin when it comes to troubleshooting your way back to a working machine.

That said, you’d be surprised by just how many issues have the same simple root cause. Before you get professional help—which we’d still advise in a lot of cases—run through these simple measures to see if you can get the problem fixed yourself.

1. Run a thorough virus scan

It’s obvious, but it’s effective: Fire up your virus-scanning software, launch the deepest and most thorough scan available, and leave it to do its work. Note that the most comprehensive type of scan (which looks at the most files and takes the longest time to complete) may not be the scan that your computer is set to run by default, so check the program settings to see what’s available. You’ll also want to make sure your scanner is up to date first, so it can catch the most recent wave of bad code.

Antivirus scanners can sometimes miss threats or be disabled by them, so it’s worth getting a second opinion. A lot of antivirus developers make lightweight, on-demand scanners you can install alongside your main security software as a second layer of protection—applications like Kaspersky Security Scan for Windows or macOS , or Microsoft Safety Scanner for Windows, or Emsisoft Emergency Kit for Windows.

You’ll find more antivirus programs around for Windows because it has a history of being attacked by the greater proportion of malware. While macOS is quite comprehensively locked down, especially if you stick to the Mac App Store for your applications, you can never be 100 percent sure you’re safe, so it’s always worth having an antivirus program or two on hand to troubleshoot system problems.

All kinds of computer crashes and slowdowns can be caused by viruses and other malware. It’s worth running a scan if your system has become sluggish, is suddenly behaving strangely, or seems overrun with advertising. If threats are found, your antivirus program will know how to combat them; if you get a clean bill of health, you can try some other troubleshooting options to fix whatever issue you’re having.

2. Update your software

Many computer problems are caused by outdated and un-patched software, from outbreaks of ransomware to glitchy keyboards that refuse to spit out the correct letters when you tap them. Fortunately, many updates now occur automatically, because they’re so important—which is why your computer might suddenly reboot when you weren’t expecting it to.

Focus on your operating system first. On Windows you can look for updates by opening Settings , then clicking Update & security ; on macOS, launch the App Store from the dock or the Applications screen in Finder, then switch to the Updates tab. Make sure you apply any updates that are pending.

It’s important to check for updates to your other applications, including your web browser and your antivirus program, even if you’ve set them to update automatically. The update feature should be fairly prominent in any app, but consult the built-in help options if you get stuck.

After applying all the updates you can find, your issues might be fixed. If they are, maintain this process as a way to prevent future problems in addition to fixing existing ones. Make sure as many of your installed applications are updating themselves automatically in the background, and you should run into fewer computer issues as a result.

3. Cut down on the bloat

You might think that leaving older, unused programs on your hard drive is pretty harmless, but as more and more applications mount up, your operating system has to work harder and the files on your computer get broken up more often and spread out further as your computer tries to save them—something known as fragmentation . As a result, the amount of free storage space can quickly become limited.

If you’ve noticed your computer is running more slowly, crashing at odd times, or showing some other kind of buggy behavior, it might be that it’s simply creaking under the weight of all the software you’ve got installed. You can uninstall applications you no longer need from the Apps section of Settings in Windows, or by dragging the app shortcut into the trash on macOS. Some macOS apps can be removed from the Launchpad by clicking and holding on an icon until it shakes, then clicking the X icon

The same goes for your browser—having too many extensions and add-ons can lead to a serious slowdown or some erratic behavior, so limit your extensions to the ones you actually need and use. In Google Chrome, click the three dots in the top right, and go to More Tools , then Extensions ; in Firefox choose Add-ons from the main app menu; and in Microsoft Edge, choose Extensions from the main app menu.

If your computer is running low on disk space, it can lead to a number of problems, including occasional crashes and slow performance. Once you’ve removed unneeded apps, try removing unneeded files too, like movies you’ve already watched or duplicate photos you’ve got safely backed up somewhere else. Generally speaking, the less bloated your system, the fewer problems you’ll run into.

4. Test your Wi-Fi connection

This troubleshooting technique only applies to internet-related problems—one very specific category of issue. The key to getting your internet up and running again is to work out where the problem lies, and the detective work isn’t as difficult as you might think.

If you can, plug your laptop or desktop computer straight into your router with an Ethernet cable . If you still don’t get internet and nothing connected to Wi-Fi is getting internet (like phones and tablets), then the problem may lie with your router hardware or your internet service provider. If that’s the case, your best option is to get on the phone with the company and ask for assistance.

If some devices can get online and others can’t, that points to problems with those specific devices. We can’t cover every conceivable issue here, but rebooting those gadgets, updating the software installed on them, and switching Wi-Fi off and back on again to establish the connection from scratch are good first steps.

If your computer can get online when plugged directly into the router but not when it’s browsing over Wi-Fi, you might be looking at a problem with your Wi-Fi network. We’ve written before about getting the strongest possible signal around your house, but if that doesn’t get you anywhere, reboot your router and dive into its on-board settings—a quick web search based on the router’s make and model should surface some information about troubleshooting tricks you can try.

5. Reinstall the operating system

Reinstalling Windows or macOS and starting from scratch is a more extreme version of the “cut down on the bloat” solution we mentioned above. It wipes out troublesome programs, erases many viruses and types of malware, resets your internet connection settings and generally gives you a blank slate. You’ll want to make sure that you have all your data backed up before starting the reinstallation process.

What makes this worth trying is that Microsoft and Apple have made reinstalling their operating systems so straightforward. On Windows, you can head to Update & Security from Settings, then choose Recovery , and select Get started under Reset this PC ( more here ), whereas on macOS your process will vary depending on whether your computer uses Apple silicon or an Intel processor . For the few new models with silicon, turn on your device and continue to hold the power button until the startup options window appears. Choose Option , then hit Continue . If you have an Intel processor, turn on your Mac and continue to hold Cmd+R to launch the Utilities program ( more here ). Then follow the installer’s instructions.

By setting your system back to square one, you’re theoretically wiping away whatever was causing the issue you’re having, though there’s no guarantee it’ll work. You’ll also need to consider the hassle of getting all your applications and files back on the system afterwards, so it’s not the right choice for everyone in every situation. In our experience though, we’ve found it to be an effective fix for a lot of computer ills.

We can’t promise that these five tips will solve every problem you’re having but they will at least enable you to rule out some basic possibilities as far as root causes go. We’re also not trying to diminish the importance of your local PC repair shop—and that should be your next port of call if your computer’s still struggling at the end of this guide.

David Nield is a freelance contributor at Popular Science, producing how to guides and explainers for the DIY section on everything from improving your smartphone photos to boosting the security of your laptop. He doesn't get much spare time, but when he does he spends it watching obscure movies and taking long walks in the countryside.

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Troubleshoot problems updating Windows

In Windows 11, you decide when and how to get the latest updates to keep your device running smoothly and securely. This article will help you answer questions and troubleshoot common problems with your Windows 11 update.

If you're looking for info on how to activate Windows 11 or to verify that your installation of Windows 11 is activated, see Activate Windows .

Have issues installing Windows updates? Start here.

Your device may not be able to update to the latest version of Windows 11 for a few reasons. The following tips can help you pinpoint the issue affecting your device.

Before you begin, make sure your device is plugged into a power source and connected to the internet. Then, try the steps listed below to get your PC to update.

Some updates require administrator access. If your account doesn't have administrator access, see Create a local user or administrator account in Windows . Or if someone else at home or in your office has an administrator account on your device, try asking them to install the updates.

Important: 

Before trying any of the solutions below, make sure you back up your personal files. You can back up your Windows PC , or insert a USB drive and use File Explorer to drag and copy important files to the USB drive. If you’re signing into Windows with a Microsoft account, your system settings will be automatically restored after updating, once you’re connected to the internet.

You can also back up your files with OneDrive. For more info, go to Back up your Documents, Pictures, and Desktop folders with OneDrive .

Learn more about Windows Update

Free up some drive space so you can run updates

Make sure that your device has enough space. Your device requires at least 16 GB of free space to upgrade a 32-bit OS, or 20 GB for a 64-bit OS. If your device has a small hard drive, you may need to insert a USB drive to update it.

If your PC is running low on storage, try the techniques at Free up drive space in Windows .

Restart to apply installed updates

Many updates require you to restart your device. Save your work and close all open applications. Then, select Start > Power , and select either Update and restart or Update and shut down .

Run Windows Update again

Even if you have downloaded some updates, there may be more available. After trying the preceding steps, run Windows Update again by selecting Start > Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates . Download and install any new updates.

Check for updates in Settings

Disconnect external hardware

Remove any external storage devices and drives, docks, and other hardware plugged into your device that aren't needed for basic functionality. Then try to run updates again and see if this resolved your issue. If it didn't, continue to the next tip.

Update third-party drivers

If you've added hardware to your device, check for third-party driver updates and installation instructions on the hardware manufacturer’s website. Update any drivers, then try to run updates again and see if this resolved your issue. If it didn't, continue to the next tip.

Check Device Manager for errors

In the search box on the taskbar, type device manager , then select Device Manager from the list of results.

In the window that appears, look for any device with a yellow exclamation mark next to it. (You may have to select each category to view the list of devices.) Select the device name.

Select Action , and then choose either Update driver or Uninstall to correct the errors.

Common troubleshooting questions

I received an error code while updating..

If you are receiving an error message with a specific error code, try running the Windows Update Troubleshooter . If that doesn't resolve the issue, see Fix Windows Update errors and follow the instructions to help resolve common update issues.

My update got to 51-99% and won’t complete installation. What’s wrong?

The time required to download and install updates depends on connection speed, network settings, and the size of the update. If the installation remains stuck at the same percentage, try checking for updates again or running the Windows Update Troubleshooter .

To check for updates, select Start > Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates .

To get help, in the search box on the taskbar, type get help , then select Get Help from the list of results. To leave feedback if you run into further problems, in the search box on the taskbar, type feedback hub , then select Feedback Hub from the list of results.

How can I stop my computer from updating?

Windows 11 is the most secure Windows ever, and we recommend you stay updated to protect your PC from security risks and to keep it running smoothly. However, you can temporarily pause updates as well as schedule a restart to install updates at a time that's convenient for you. Learn how to temporarily pause updates Find out how to schedule a restart to install updates at a convenient time

How do I turn off update notifications?

You will only receive a notification when it’s time to restart your computer to apply the installed updates.

Do updates affect my data usage?

Monthly quality updates on Windows 11 are quite small and have a minimal impact on data usage. Feature updates typically happen twice per year, and you can control when to install them. They require more data but are less frequent.

If you’re on a metered connection, some updates for Windows won’t be installed automatically. Metered connections in Windows

How do I fix a slow computer?

Your computer might be slow for a number of reasons, but updating to the latest version of Windows 11 can improve its performance. For help with a slow computer, see Tips to improve PC performance in Windows .

The update finished, but now I can’t find my files.

If you're having trouble finding your files after an upgrade, see Find lost files after the upgrade to Windows 10 or 11 for other things to try.

Warning:  Microsoft only recommends trying the procedures in this section if you're comfortable working in the command line. These procedures require administrator permissions on your device.

Rename software distribution folders

In the search box on the taskbar, type command prompt , then select Run as administrator from the list of options. Select Yes . Next, in the window that appears, type the following commands one at a time, including the spaces as shown. After you type each command, press Enter . Then let each command complete before you type the next command.

After all these commands are completed, close the Command Prompt window and restart your computer.

Temporarily remove third-party security software

In some instances, third-party antivirus or security software can cause errors when you try to update to the latest version of Windows 11. You can temporarily uninstall this software, update your PC, and then reinstall the software after your device is up to date. We recommend using third-party antivirus or security software that’s compatible with the latest version of Windows 11. You can check compatibility by visiting the software manufacturer’s website.

Note:  Before uninstalling software, make sure you know how to reinstall your programs and that you have any necessary product keys.

Repair hard drive errors

In the search box on the taskbar, type command prompt, and then select Run as administrator from the list of options. Select Yes . In the window that appears, type the following command, including the space as shown: chkdsk/f C: and then press Enter . Repairs will automatically start on your hard drive, and you’ll be asked to restart your device.

Perform a clean restart into Windows

A clean restart starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs. This helps eliminate software conflicts that occur when you install a program or an update that may cause issues updating your PC. Learn how to do a clean restart

Restore and repair system files

In the search box on the taskbar, type command prompt , then select Run as administrator from the list of options.

In the window that appears, type this command including spaces as shown: DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth

Press Enter . When the command operation has run successfully, you'll see a confirmation message from Command Prompt that says, “The restore operation completed successfully” or “The operation completed successfully”. Note: If you don't see a confirmation message, retype the command and try again.

Next, type this command, including the space as shown: sfc /scannow

Press Enter . Wait until the sfc scan verification reaches 100% completion, and then close Command Prompt.

Try running the Windows Update again.

Learn how to repair a Windows image

Perform a clean installation of Windows 11

Go to the software download page and select Download tool now to download the clean installation tool. Make sure to carefully read the notes on the software download page before using the tool.

In Windows 10, you decide when and how to get the latest updates to keep your device running smoothly and securely. This article will help you answer questions and troubleshoot common problems with your Windows 10 update.

If you're looking for info on how to activate Windows 10 or to verify that your installation of Windows 10 is activated, see Activate Windows .

Your device may not be able to update to the latest version of Windows 10 for a few reasons. The following tips can help you pinpoint the issue affecting your device.

Serviced versions of Windows 10: Frequently asked questions

Even if you have downloaded some updates, there may be more available. After trying the preceding steps, run Windows Update again by selecting Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > Check for updates . Download and install any new updates.

To check for updates, select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > Check for updates.

To get help, in the search box on the task bar, type get help , then select Get Help from the list of results. To leave feedback if you run into further problems, in the search box on the taskbar, type feedback hub , then select Feedback Hub from the list of results.

Windows 10 is the most secure Windows ever, and we recommend you stay updated to protect your PC from security risks and to keep it running smoothly. However, you can temporarily pause updates as well as schedule a restart to install updates at a time that's convenient for you. Learn how to temporarily pause updates Find out how to schedule a restart to install updates at a convenient time

If you need to know where you left off in your work after an update, use Timeline to jump back in.

To get started with Timeline, select Task View on the taskbar, or press the Windows logo key +Tab and select the activity you want to resume.

Monthly quality updates on Windows 10 are quite small and have a minimal impact on data usage. Feature updates typically happen twice per year, and you can control when to install them. They require more data but are less frequent.

Your computer might be slow for a number of reasons, but updating to the latest version of Windows 10 can improve its performance. For help with a slow computer, see Tips to improve PC performance in Windows .

In some instances, third-party antivirus or security software can cause errors when you try to update to the latest version of Windows 10. You can temporarily uninstall this software, update your PC, and then reinstall the software after your device is up to date. We recommend using third-party antivirus or security software that’s compatible with the latest version of Windows 10. You can check compatibility by visiting the software manufacturer’s website.

In the search box on the taskbar, type command prompt, and then select Run as administrator from the list of options. Select Yes . In the window that appears, type the following command, including the space as shown: chkdsk/f C: and then press Enter . Repairs will automatically start on your hard drive, and you’ll be asked to restart your device.

Perform a clean installation of Windows 10

Still stuck.

Contact Microsoft support if you continue to have problems with your Windows updates.

Recommended articles

Activate Windows

How to use the PC Health Check app

Windows Update: FAQ

Create a local user or administrator account in Windows

Windows Update troubleshooter

Free up drive space in Windows

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Computer Basics  - Basic Troubleshooting Techniques

Computer basics  -, basic troubleshooting techniques, computer basics basic troubleshooting techniques.

Computer Basics: Basic Troubleshooting Techniques

Lesson 19: basic troubleshooting techniques.

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Troubleshooting

Do you know what to do if your screen goes blank? What if you can't seem to close an application, or can't hear any sound from your speakers? Whenever you have a problem with your computer, don't panic! There are many basic troubleshooting techniques you can use to fix issues like this. In this lesson, we'll show you some simple things to try when troubleshooting, as well as how to solve common problems you may encounter.

General tips to keep in mind

There are many different things that could cause a problem with your computer. No matter what's causing the issue, troubleshooting will always be a process of trial and error —in some cases, you may need to use several different approaches before you can find a solution; other problems may be easy to fix. We recommend starting by using the following tips.

• Write down your steps : Once you start troubleshooting, you may want to write down each step you take. This way, you'll be able to remember exactly what you've done and can avoid repeating the same mistakes. If you end up asking other people for help, it will be much easier if they know exactly what you've tried already.
• Take notes about error messages : If your computer gives you an error message , be sure to write down as much information as possible. You may be able to use this information later to find out if other people are having the same error.

• Restart the computer : When all else fails, restarting the computer is a good thing to try. This can solve a lot of basic issues you may experience with your computer.

Using the process of elimination

If you're having an issue with your computer, you may be able to find out what's wrong using the process of elimination . This means you'll make a list of things that could be causing the problem and then test them out one by one to eliminate them. Once you've identified the source of your computer issue, it will be easier to find a solution.

Let's say you're trying to print out invitations for a birthday party, but the printer won't print. You have some ideas about what could be causing this, so you go through them one by one to see if you can eliminate any possible causes.

First, you check the printer to see that it's turned on and plugged in to the surge protector . It is, so that's not the issue. Next, you check to make sure the printer's ink cartridge still has ink and that there is paper loaded in the paper tray . Things look good in both cases, so you know the issue has nothing to do with ink or paper.

Now you want to make sure the printer and computer are communicating correctly . If you recently downloaded an update to your operating system , it might interfere with the printer. But you know there haven't been any recent updates and the printer was working yesterday, so you'll have to look elsewhere.

You check the printer's USB cord and find that it's not plugged in. You must have unplugged it accidentally when you plugged something else into the computer earlier. Once you plug in the USB cord, the printer starts working again. It looks like this printer issue is solved!

This is just one example of an issue you might encounter while using a computer. In the rest of this lesson, we'll talk about other common computer problems and some ways to solve them.

Simple solutions to common problems

Most of the time, problems can be fixed using simple troubleshooting techniques, like closing and reopening the program. It's important to try these simple solutions before resorting to more extreme measures. If the problem still isn't fixed, you can try other troubleshooting techniques.

Problem: Power button will not start computer

• Solution 1 : If your computer does not start , begin by checking the power cord to confirm that it is plugged securely into the back of the computer case and the power outlet.
• Solution 2 : If it is plugged into an outlet, make sure it is a working outlet . To check your outlet, you can plug in another electrical device , such as a lamp .

• Solution 4 : If you are using a laptop , the battery may not be charged. Plug the AC adapter into the wall, then try to turn on the laptop. If it still doesn't start up, you may need to wait a few minutes and try again.

Problem: An application is running slowly

• Solution 1 : Close and reopen the application.

Problem: An application is frozen

Sometimes an application may become stuck, or frozen . When this happens, you won't be able to close the window or click any buttons within the application.

• Solution 2 : Restart the computer. If you are unable to force quit an application, restarting your computer will close all open apps.

Problem: All programs on the computer run slowly

• Solution 2 : Your computer may be running out of hard drive space. Try deleting any files or programs you don't need.
• Solution 3 : If you're using a PC , you can run Disk Defragmenter . To learn more about Disk Defragmenter , check out our lesson on Protecting Your Computer .

Problem: The computer is frozen

Sometimes your computer may become completely unresponsive, or frozen . When this happens, you won't be able to click anywhere on the screen, open or close applications, or access shut-down options.

• Solution 3 : Press and hold the Power button. The Power button is usually located on the front or side of the computer, typically indicated by the power symbol . Press and hold the Power button for 5 to 10 seconds to force the computer to shut down.
• Solution 4 : If the computer still won't shut down, you can unplug the power cable from the electrical outlet. If you're using a laptop, you may be able to remove the battery to force the computer to turn off. Note : This solution should be your last resort after trying the other suggestions above.

Problem: The mouse or keyboard has stopped working

• Solution 2 : If you're using a wireless mouse or keyboard, make sure it's turned on and that its batteries are charged.

Problem: The sound isn't working

• Solution 1 : Check the volume level. Click the audio button in the top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen to make sure the sound is turned on and that the volume is up.
• Solution 2 : Check the audio player controls. Many audio and video players will have their own separate audio controls. Make sure the sound is turned on and that the volume is turned up in the player.
• Solution 3 : Check the cables. Make sure external speakers are plugged in, turned on, and connected to the correct audio port or a USB port. If your computer has color-coded ports, the audio output port will usually be green .

Problem: The screen is blank

• Solution 1 : The computer may be in Sleep mode. Click the mouse or press any key on the keyboard to wake it.
• Solution 2 : Make sure the monitor is plugged in and turned on .
• Solution 3 : Make sure the computer is plugged in and turned on .
• Solution 4 : If you're using a desktop, make sure the monitor cable is properly connected to the computer tower and the monitor.

Solving more difficult problems

If you still haven't found a solution to your problem, you may need to ask someone else for help. As an easy starting point, we'd recommend searching the Web . It's possible that other users have had similar problems, and solutions to these problems are often posted online. Also, if you have a friend or family member who knows a lot about computers, they may be able to help you.

Keep in mind that most computer problems have simple solutions, although it may take some time to find them. For difficult problems, a more drastic solution may be required, like reformatting your hard drive or reinstalling your operating system. If you think you might need a solution like this, we recommend consulting a professional first. If you're not a computer expert, it's possible that attempting these solutions could make the situation worse.

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How to use the Troubleshoot feature to fix problems on Windows 11

Your computer can fix itself automatically with the Troubleshoot feature, and here's how to use it on Windows 11.

On Windows 11 , "Troubleshoot" is a feature that uses diagnostic data to detect and fix common problems automatically. For example, it can restore critical services settings, make system changes on your behalf to match the hardware configuration, or adjust settings to help keep the computer running smoothly.

The Troubleshoot feature can also suggest fixes for problems that are not critical to operating Windows 11, but they may still impact the experience. An example would be a recommendation to disable an app or feature that is not working as intended until a fix is released through Windows Update.

Furthermore, if you ever stumble upon a problem with an internet connection, audio, printer, Bluetooth, or Windows Update , it's possible to run many troubleshooters manually to resolve the issue quickly.

In this Windows 11 guide, we will walk you through the steps to fix problems with the Troubleshoot feature.

How to manage Troubleshoot settings on Windows 11

How to run troubleshoot on windows 11, how to disable troubleshoot on windows 11, how to view troubleshoot history on windows 11.

To change the Troubleshoot settings on Windows 11, use these steps:

• Open Settings .
• Click on System .
• Click the Troubleshoot page on the right side.

• Run automatically, don't notify me — Recommended fixes will apply automatically without user interaction.
• Run automatically, then notify me — Applies the fixes automatically, and the system will let you know about the changes.
• Ask me before running (default) — You will need to review the notification before applying it.
• Don't run any — Disables the feature.

Once you complete the steps, Windows 11 will run and apply fixes according to your configuration.

While the system will fix problems automatically, you can also run troubleshooters manually for many issues that may appear on your computer.

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To fix common Windows 11 problems with Troubleshoot, use these steps:

• Click the Other troubleshooters page on the right side.

• Select the topic that best describes the problem and click the Run button.

• Continue with the on-screen directions (if applicable).

After you complete the steps, the fix will resolve the issue. If the problem wasn't resolved, you might want to run the troubleshooter a few more times.

To prevent the system from running automated fixes, use the steps:

• Select the Don't run any option using the "Recommended troubleshoot preference" setting.

Once you complete the steps, Windows 11 will no longer attempt to fix problems automatically.

To review previous fixes with Troubleshoot, use these steps:

• Click the Recommended troubleshooter history page on the right side.

Once you complete the steps, the fixes that the system tried to apply automatically will appear on this page. However, manual troubleshooters, such as those to fix internet connections, audio, printer, updates, and others, won't appear in the history page.

More Windows resources

For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources:

• Windows 11 on Windows Central — All you need to know
• Windows 11 help, tips, and tricks
• Windows 10 on Windows Central — All you need to know

Mauro Huculak is technical writer for WindowsCentral.com. His primary focus is to write comprehensive how-tos to help users get the most out of Windows 10 and its many related technologies. He has an IT background with professional certifications from Microsoft, Cisco, and CompTIA, and he's a recognized member of the Microsoft MVP community.

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• Top 10 Common Computer Issues and How to Fix Them

by macndroidtx | Jul 1, 2023 | Computer Repair

Computers have become an integral part of our lives, aiding us in various tasks. However, they can sometimes encounter problems that disrupt our workflow. In this blog post, we will explore the top 10 common computer issues that users often face and provide effective solutions to help you troubleshoot and fix them. Let’s dive in!

Slow Performance: One of the most frustrating issues is a slow-performing computer. It can significantly hamper productivity. To address this problem, start by cleaning up your hard drive, uninstalling unnecessary programs, and disabling startup programs. Additionally, regularly run disk cleanup and defragmentation tools, and consider upgrading your RAM if necessary.

Blue Screen of Death (BSOD): Encountering the dreaded Blue Screen of Death can be alarming. It usually occurs due to hardware or software conflicts, faulty drivers, or issues with your operating system. To resolve this, try booting your computer in safe mode, updating device drivers, and performing a system restore. If the problem persists, it might be helpful to consult a professional technician.

Internet Connectivity Issues: A stable internet connection is essential for most computer users. If you’re experiencing connectivity problems, start by checking your router and modem for any issues. Restart them if necessary. Verify that your Wi-Fi drivers are up to date, and consider resetting your network settings. If the problem persists, contact your internet service provider for further assistance.

Virus and Malware Infections: Viruses and malware can compromise the security and functionality of your computer. Install a reputable antivirus software program and keep it up to date. Perform regular scans to detect and remove any malicious software. Additionally, avoid clicking on suspicious links and downloading files from untrusted sources.

Unresponsive Applications: Sometimes, applications freeze or become unresponsive, causing frustration. Use the Task Manager (Ctrl + Alt + Delete) to force close the application. If the problem persists, consider reinstalling the application. Ensure that your software is compatible with your operating system and meets the system requirements.

Hardware Component Failure: Hardware components can fail over time, leading to issues like random shutdowns, overheating, or strange noises. Check your computer’s internal fans for dust accumulation and clean them if necessary. Ensure that all cables and connections are secure. If the problem persists, consult a professional technician for further diagnosis and repairs.

File and Data Loss: Accidental file deletion or data loss can be devastating. To prevent this, regularly back up your important files using external storage devices, cloud services, or backup software. Implement a reliable data backup strategy to protect your valuable information from unforeseen circumstances.

Printer Connectivity and Printing Issues: Connecting and troubleshooting printers can be a challenge. Ensure that your printer is correctly connected to your computer and has the necessary drivers installed. Verify that your printer is set as the default printing device. If you’re experiencing printing problems, check ink or toner levels, clear any paper jams, and update printer drivers if needed.

Overheating: Excessive heat can cause system instability and potential damage to your computer’s components. Ensure that your computer has proper ventilation and is placed on a stable surface. Clean the dust from your computer’s fans and heat sinks regularly. Consider using cooling pads or external fans to improve airflow.

Unexpected Shutdowns: If your computer shuts down unexpectedly, it could be due to power issues, overheating, or software conflicts. Check your power supply connections and ensure that they are secure. Monitor the temperature of your computer and take appropriate steps to prevent overheating. If the issue persists, consult a professional technician for further diagnosis.

By understanding and troubleshooting these top 10 common computer issues, you can effectively resolve problems and optimize your computer’s performance. Remember to take preventive measures, such as regular backups and system maintenance, to avoid potential issues. If you encounter complex or persistent problems, it’s always a good idea to seek professional assistance. Happy computing!

How to Repair a Computer

Last Updated: February 7, 2024 References

This article was co-authored by Luigi Oppido and by wikiHow staff writer, Travis Boylls . Luigi Oppido is the Owner and Operator of Pleasure Point Computers in Santa Cruz, California. Luigi has over 25 years of experience in general computer repair, data recovery, virus removal, and upgrades. He is also the host of the Computer Man Show! broadcasted on KSQD covering central California for over two years. This article has been viewed 504,612 times.

Any abnormality in the integrated components of a computer can prove harmful to its performance, but some general computer issues can be addressed without seeking professional IT help. Among the most common problems, you may encounter are issues with the computer freezing and appearances of the infamous "no boot" or "blue screen of death." To repair a computer, you'll need to troubleshoot the issue and determine if the fix is something you can perform yourself; for more complicated problems, however, consider seeking the help of a professional. This wikiHow teaches you some basic steps you can take to repair your computer.

Repairing a Computer that Freezes or Runs Slowly

• Click the Windows Start menu icon.
• Click the Settings/Gear icon.
• Click ' Update & Security
• Click Check for updates
• Click the Apple Icon.
• Click Software Updates/App Store .
• Click the Updates tab.
• Click Download next to any software that needs to be updated.

• Click the Gear/Settings icon.
• Click Apps .
• Click an app or program you want to install.
• Click Uninstall .
• Restart your computer.
• Open the Finder.
• Open the Applications folder.
• Click and drag a program you want to uninstall to the trashcan in the Dock.
• Right-click the trashcan icon and click Empty Trash .
• Restart your Mac.

• Right-click the Windows Start menu.
• Click Device Manager
• Click the bracket icon to the left of each device to display all drivers for that device.

• Click Task Manager .
• Click a program that's using too much CPU or memory.
• Click End Task .
• Click the magnifying glass icon in the upper-right corner.
• Type "Activity Monitor" in the search bar and press '"Enter/Return .
• Click the CPU tab to check CPU usage.
• Click the Memory tab to check memory usage.
• Click a program that is using too much memory or CPU.
• Click the "X" icon in the upper-left corner to force close the program.

• Note: Opening the bottom panel of a laptop computer may void the warranty. If your laptop is still under warranty, contact the manufacturer or point of sale and see what you need to do to get your laptop fixed.
• Even if your computer isn't having problems, it's a good idea to clean the fans regularly.

• Click the Windows Start menu.
• Type "Performance Monitor" and click Performance Monitor .
• Double-click Reports
• Double-click System .
• Double-click your computer's name.
• Hold D as your Mac reboots.
• Select your language.
• Wait for the test to complete.
• Note the suggestions and reference codes.

• Type "Recovery" and click the Recovery app
• Click Open System Restore .
• Click a System Restore point and click Next .
• Click Finish
• Wait for your computer to finish restoring (DO NOT INTERUPT THIS PROCESS).
• Make sure your Time Machine disk drive is connected.
• Restart your Mac and hold "Command + R" as your Mac boots up.
• Select your language and click the arrow icon.
• Select Restore from Time Machine Backup and click Continue .
• Select the disk drive with the backup and click Continue .
• Enter your username and password, if needed.
• Select a restore point and click Continue .
• Click your Macintosh disk and click Restore or Continue .

• Click Update & Security .
• Click Recovery in the panel to the left.
• Click Get Started below "Reset this PC".
• Click Keep my files or Remove everything .
• Click Next .
• Follow the instructions and click Reset .
• Click Reinstall macOS (If you want to wipe your hard drive, click Disk Utility and select your hard drive. Then click Erase .)
• Click Continue .

Fixing a Computer That Does Not Boot Up

• Boot up your computer.
• Press and hold the power button for 10 seconds when you see the Windows logo or your computer manufacturer's logo to interrupt the bootup process and force shut down your computer.
• Repeat the bootup and interrupt/shutdown process three times.
• Select your Windows username if asked.
• Select Advanced Options
• Select Troubleshoot .
• Select Startup Settings
• Select Restart
• Press 5 or F5 to boot into Safe Mode with Networking.

• Enter your username and password if needed.

Expert Q&A

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• ↑ https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/how-to-test-your-pc-for-failing-hardware/
• ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT202731
• ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8tgodWHzApo
• ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT203981
• ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201262

About This Article

1. Back up your files, if possible. 2. Check your power cord or AC adapter. 3. Check your monitor connection. 4. Remove and reset your RAM. 5. Uninstall any programs that you installed around the time the problem started. 6. Make sure your drivers and operating system are up-to-date. 7. Check if your computer is overheating. 8. Clean the inside of your computer. 9. Run a diagnostic program. 10. Run and antivirus scan. 11. Perform a recovery restore. 12. Reinstall your operating system. 13. Have your computer repaired or replaced. To learn how to repair a computer that freezes or runs slowly, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Fix the "Driver Is Unavailable" Error on Your Printer

Are you seeing a driver is unavailable error? Like all PC hardware, printers need updated drivers to function smoothly, and they won’t work until the issue is resolved. We'll take you through all the ways to fix your printer if the driver is unavailable, and show you how to easily keep your drivers updated with the help of an automated driver updater tool.

What is the "Driver is Unavailable" error?

The “Driver is Unavailable” error means Windows is unable to locate the right driver required for issuing commands to your printer. This could be due to having incorrect, corrupted, or outdated drivers installed, or due to your system not having the necessary access permissions.

For your system to interact with a printer, dedicated software known as drivers are needed to act as an intermediary between the PC and the printer. The drivers translate requests from the operating system into commands that the printer’s specific make and model can understand and execute. But if there’s a problem with the driver, communication breaks down, causing the “Driver is unavailable” error to occur.

The same is true for other hardware components, although you may not always receive a driver unavailable message. For example, faulty graphics drivers can slow down your streaming and cause your games to lag or crash. If you're experiencing slowdowns, check your computer specs and be sure to update your graphics drivers .

Common causes of driver errors

There are many reasons why you might be encountering a printer driver error, including problems with the driver itself or issues with your operating system. That’s why it’s important to learn how to hunt down drivers to boost PC performance and fix common driver problems in Windows .

Here are some common causes why your printer driver is unavailable:

Faulty drivers: Occasionally, manufacturers accidentally release driver updates containing bugs or glitches — particularly if they’re rushing to patch up a security exploit . In this case, fixing the issue simply requires rolling back your driver to the previous version.

Outdated drivers: If you don’t keep your drivers updated, as well as causing performance issues, they may eventually become incompatible with your devices. The best driver update software keeps track of driver updates for all your hardware and makes sure you never miss a new release.

Corrupted drivers: Like other files stored on your PC, drivers can become corrupted due to malware , hardware bugs, unexpected shutdowns, or interference from other software. Reinstalling the driver with AVG Driver Updater will repair the corrupted files as well as perform a malware and compatibility check.

Outdated operating system: Even if all your drivers are fully functional and updated, if you’re not running the latest version of your operating system, compatibility problems can result in a driver unavailable error.

Windows updates: Drivers are written specifically to integrate with a particular operating system, so changes to your system via Windows updates can cause compatibility issues. Until a driver update is released to fix the problem, roll back Windows by uninstalling the latest update.

Incorrect installation: If you manually update your drivers, it’s easy to install the wrong driver. Alternatively, you may have the correct driver, but failed to install it properly, resulting in the printer driver being unavailable.

How to fix the "Driver is Unavailable" error in Windows 10

If your Windows 10 printer driver is unavailable, isolate and fix the problem by working through the following steps until the “Driver is Unavailable” message stops appearing.

Roll back your printer driver

If your printer driver recently updated before the error appeared, an issue with the update is probably to blame. Here’s how to roll it back to the previous version:

Open the Control Panel via the Start menu and click View devices and printers .

Locate the affected printer, right-click it, and select Properties .

Go to the Hardware tab and click Properties .

In the new pop-up window, go to the Driver tab and click Roll Back Driver . If prompted, confirm by clicking Yes or OK .

Update your printer driver

If your printer driver wasn’t recently updated, or if rolling back to a previous version didn’t solve the issue, you should ensure you have the latest driver version installed.

Open the Device Manager via the Start menu.

Locate your printer within the list of devices, right-click it, and select Update driver .

Click Search automatically for drivers and follow the on-screen installation instructions if an update is available.

Update or roll back Windows

Compatibility issues can arise if you’re not using the latest version of Windows or your driver isn’t compatible with the version you’re running.

Here’s how to make sure your operating system is fully updated:

Open Settings through the Start menu, then click Update & Security .

Select Windows Update , then click Check for updates .

If any updates are available, follow the on-screen instructions to install them. If your Windows update gets stuck , check out how to fix Windows update errors .

You shouldn’t use an outdated version of Windows, because this leaves you exposed to potential vulnerabilities and zero-day attacks . But if a recent update coincided with the appearance of the error message, you can try rolling back Windows to see if that solves the problem.

Uninstall your printer driver

In the event that your printer driver has become corrupted, or is incorrectly installed, you’ll need to wipe the slate clean and start again.

Here’s how to uninstall your printer driver:

Open Settings via the Start menu, then click Devices .

Select Printers and Scanners .

Select Print Server Properties .

Click the Drivers tab, select the problematic printer driver in the list of installed drivers, and click Remove .

Select Remove driver and driver package , then click OK — if asked for confirmation, click Delete .

Download and install a new printer driver

After uninstalling your printer driver, it’s time to make sure you have the right one installed for your specific make and model of printer. Here’s how to download and install a new driver:

Open Settings via the Start menu and click Devices .

Select Printers & scanners , then click the name of the printer followed by Remove device .

Now click the + button next to Add a printer or scanner and select the name of the printer.

Follow the on-screen instructions to pair your PC with the printer. Windows should automatically find, download, and install the appropriate driver.

If this doesn’t work for any reason, you’ll need to manually locate the driver on the printer manufacturer’s website, download it, and follow their installation instructions.

How to fix the "Driver is Unavailable" error on HP printers

If your HP printer driver is unavailable, you can either use an HP Drivers Updater tool or do so manually. Locate your printer’s name on the outer shell of your printer, then go to the HP Printer Driver Downloads page . Enter the name of your printer in the search box and choose the appropriate driver.

Here are some other tips for fixing common printer “Driver is unavailable” HP errors:

Check your internet connection: If your HP printer is using HP+, a faulty internet connection could make your printer driver unavailable to HP servers. If you have connection problems, see why your internet is slow and how to fix it .

Use a universal driver: You can also try using one of HP’s universal drivers , which work across several models.

Use HP’s driver diagnostic tool: HP’s Print and Scan doctor can potentially diagnose your printer driver issue and offer a solution.

Roll back HP’s update: If your HP printer worked fine before updating, roll back the driver update using Windows Device Manager.

Other printer driver errors and how to fix them

Likewise, if your Canon printer driver is unavailable or your Epson printer driver is unavailable, visiting Canon’s software driver page or Epson’s printer support page lets you manually search for your specific printer model so you can download and install the right driver.

But sometimes printer driver issues are caused by something else entirely. Here are some other errors which could be causing the problem:

Print spooler needs restarting

Windows’ print spooler orders print jobs and puts them in the printing queue, so a mix-up here could cause the printer driver to show up as unavailable. Try restarting it through the built-in Services app by scrolling down to Print Spooler , right-clicking it, and selecting Restart .

Administrator access

Since drivers have privileged access to the inner workings of your hardware, they might require administrator rights for security reasons. Switch to your administrator account, then check if your printer driver is still unavailable.

Troubleshooting tips

Does your printer still say the driver is unavailable, even after you’ve updated it and tried all the other fixes? Here are a few more troubleshooting options to try:

Windows Troubleshooter: Windows 10 has a built-in printer troubleshooter to help you identify and fix problems. Type troubleshoot settings in the Windows search bar and open it. Click Additional troubleshooters , then Printer , and Run the troubleshooter .

Clean your PC: It’s possible you have a lot of junk on your computer that is getting in your driver’s way. Our ultimate guide to speeding up and cleaning your PC can help you unclog the works.

Unplug and replug the printer: Sometimes, simply unplugging your printer, waiting a minute, and then plugging it back in, can reset your driver issue.

Call support: If all else fails, contact your printer’s customer support center. They’ll be best placed to guide you through potential solutions to your problem.

Keep all your drivers updated

Drivers are crucial to your PC’s performance, but there are millions of drivers across different brands you could have on your computer. AVG Driver Updater removes the hassle and stress of keeping up with updates — it automatically manages all your drivers for improved audio and video quality, enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity, and faster browsing. Refresh your PC today by installing AVG Driver Updater and getting a free scan of your drivers.

Keep Your Drivers Updated Automatically

Get AVG Driver Updater to automatically scan, update, and fix your drivers with a single click. Enjoy optimal PC performance.

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The most common Sea of Thieves problems and how to fix them

There are few experiences better than gathering a crew of friends and embarking on a thrilling pirate adventure in Sea of Thieves . When everything is working as intended, Sea of Thieves is a fun and addicting time, but players have reported a number of technical issues and bugs that can interrupt your voyage. We compiled a list of the most common problems players have reported, as well as how to fix them.

Connection issues

Missing reputation, ship, or currency, a new quest parchment is completely blank, all known issues.

While Sea of Thieves depends on online group-ups, sometimes the digital waves get a little choppy.  Upon loading into the Sea of Thieves main menu, you might see a message such as “KiwiBeard, “Greybeard,” or “DaffodilBeard,” among other facial hair-themed errors . The majority of these are error messages related to the game’s servers rather than a problem with your system or your own internet connection.

Possible solutions:

• There isn’t much you can do to resolve server-side errors. Instead, check back during hours when game traffic is likely to be lower, such as in the middle of the day. The server changes Rare made in 2020 have gone a long way to fixing serious traffic issues, but connection problems can still pop up from time to time. To see if it’s a widespread issue or something wrong with your own connection, it’s a good idea to visit sites like Downdetector and see if other players are having problems.
• If you get either a “CinnamonBeard” or “BronzeBeard” connection error, Rare recommends completely quitting the Sea of Thieves application and restarting it. To do this on Xbox, return to the system’s dashboard, highlight the game, and press the Menu button. Choose to quit the game, then start it as you normally do and attempt to connect again.

Occasionally, you may load into Sea of Thieves  and find you don’t have any items, that your currency will be completely depleted, or that your ship hasn’t appeared. You may also find you aren’t receiving new money or earning reputation for completing voyages.

• Quit to the main menu of Sea of Thieves and then reconnect to the game. This will usually alleviate any issues you have with your currency being completely missing or with your ship not spawning at the dock. If it doesn’t work on your first attempt, try reconnecting a second time. Should this fail, you may just need to wait it out.
• As of 2021, Rare has largely solved this issue with server fixes. If you find it still happens to you, you may want to check with support and your ISP to see if you are having unique connection issues.

Skeleton Captains and similar enemies can drop quest parchments to start a new voyage in search of buried treasure. The thrill of getting a parchment drop is occasionally thwarted when players take a look and find nothing but a blank parchment with no clues or an island map to be found.

Possible solutions: 

• Exit the game, and log back in. Your quest parchment should remain in your possession, but now it will show the proper information. Rare continues to tackle this bug with various improvements, but it can still happen.

Rare has a dedicated page listing all the known issues in Sea of Thieves . Each one has a date it was added, and will be labelled as resolved once fixed. Even if an issue isn’t yet resolved, seeing it on this list at least lets you know that Rare is aware of the problem and activly working on fixing it.

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Building up your character and being a team player is critical in Helldivers 2. A mission is doomed from the start if you only look out for yourself, but you might be overlooking an easy way to give yourself and your squad some extra support. Boosters are just one of the many ways to customize your trooper, but perhaps one of the most important.

These aren't handed out automatically, so if you don't know how to get them or, even more importantly, what they do, you are putting yourself at a needless disadvantage. We're here to train you on all the Boosters in Helldivers 2 and how to get and equip them for your next mission. All Boosters in Helldivers 2

The Steam Deck is packed with excellent features, has solid performance, and has decent battery life. But as our review noted, it does still need some work. Fortunately, Valve has been regularly posting important software updates to fix issues and add new features that gamers have wanted, and it's slowly becoming a more stable, versatile device for it.

But if you’re still running into problems or bugs that make you want to throw your Steam Deck across the room, hold on for a minute. We’ve collected the issues that people are running into, and the solutions that we’ve found can make things much better. Let’s do a little troubleshooting.

Roku: How to fix the most common problems on your streaming dongle

S treaming devices have taken over traditional cable TV, offering more control over the content you watch. You can have instant access to your favorite movies and shows with a tap of a button. Roku makes some of the best streaming devices at almost any price point, letting you enjoy popular services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and HBO Max.

While Roku devices are generally reliable, they're not immune to occasional hiccups. You might experience overheating, sluggish performance, or audio problems. We walk you through the common Roku problems and how to fix them.

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The most commonly reported roku issues.

A strong internet connection is required for Roku to work correctly. If you face connectivity issues, expect your Roku content to have subpar quality, slow load times, and bad audio. A hardware malfunction can also be to blame for streaming issues.

Below are examples of common Roku issues you may come across:

• Roku freezes up : The streaming device freezes up, making the remote stop responding. The video may start and stop randomly or stay frozen. You might be able to control your device now and then or not at all.
• Remote control glitches : The remote glitches when picking channels, searching for titles, or selecting movies. When you move using the up, down, left, or right arrows, the cursor jumps multiple spaces instead of moving smoothly one space at a time.
• Bad audio : Video plays, but you cannot hear the associated sound. You might also notice differences in volume, hear clicking or popping noises, or experience the audio dropping or stopping intermittently. Sometimes, the audio and video might not sync properly.
• Roku overheats : The Roku player gets too hot, showing a message on the screen that says, "Your device is overheating." Some Roku models have a white light on the front that turns red when it's too hot.
• Video playback errors : An error occurs while playing a specific video or any videos from one or all channels. You might experience frequent buffering, poor video quality, or videos taking a long time to start.

Restart your Roku

A system restart is the first step in troubleshooting electronic devices. To restore your Roku's normal operation, perform a system restart. We're not talking about using the remote to power on/off or pressing the physical power button on the TV. Instead, unplug the power cord from your Roku TV for at least 10 seconds before plugging it back in.

You can also perform a system restart from the Settings menu on your Roku TV.

• Go to Settings.
• Select System and then choose Power .
• Select System restart .
• Use the remote to highlight Restart and press OK to restart your device.

Update to the latest software

Roku streaming devices automatically update each time you power them on and periodically every 24 to 36 hours. Although this process usually goes smoothly, there are times when it doesn't. If your Roku device has been disconnected for a while, you might need to check for updates. Updating to the latest software ensures your device is bug-free and free of other software issues.

Follow these steps to check for updates on your Roku streaming device:

• Press the Home button on your Roku remote.
• Select Settings and then choose System .
• Select System update .
• Select Check Now . If an update is available, Roku installs it and restarts when done.

How to turn off your Roku streaming device

Look for the red light.

Roku streaming devices have a light on the front that turns red when it's overheating. If the red light is flashing, your streaming player has insufficient power. If you notice a solid red light, unplug the power cable from your Roku player and allow it to cool down. Wait at least 10 minutes before plugging it back in.

Overheating can harm the streaming player, impacting your viewing experience. Keep the Roku device in a cool location. Avoid placing it inside a closed cabinet or on top of other electronic devices.

Fix audio problems

Audio problems aren't rare on Roku devices, but you can fix them. Start by checking your HDMI input at both ends if you have a set-top Roku. Make sure the mute function is not on.

If this doesn't help, adjust the audio configuration from the settings.

• Go into Settings and choose Audio .
• Select Digital output format .
• Adjust your setting to Stereo if you use HDMI.

Troubleshoot video errors

Video errors are mostly due to a bad internet connection, a service interruption, or a possible outage on the channel you're watching. If you notice poor video quality or buffering, connect your Roku to a different internet connection or reduce the use of other devices currently accessing the network.

If you can't play videos from any channel, make sure your streaming player is connected to the internet. Follow these steps to check the status of the connection:

• Select Settings and then choose Network .
• Select About . The status says Connected if the device is connected to the internet.

Factory reset your Roku

If the above methods didn't solve issues on your Roku device, consider performing a factory reset. This returns your device to its original factory settings but clears most of the data. We show you how to factory reset your Roku from the settings or by using the physical button on the device.

How to factory reset Roku from the device settings

• Go to Settings .
• Select System and choose Advanced system settings .
• Select Factory reset .
• Select Factory reset everything .

How to factory reset using the hardware reset button

You can factory reset your Roku using the hardware button if your remote is not working. You'll find the button on the back or bottom of your Roku device. Some devices have a tactile button, while others have a pinhole button.

Follow these steps after you locate the reset button:

• Power on your Roku.
• Press and hold the reset button firmly for about 10 seconds. If it's a pinhole, use a paperclip to press the button.
• The factory reset is complete when the indicator light blinks rapidly.

Watch your favorite shows with less trouble

You may encounter other issues while using Roku, but these are the most common ones. The tips we discussed help you troubleshoot most problems. If you still have trouble watching your favorite shows, contact Roku customer support or check out the best Roku alternatives . You can also use these Roku tips and tricks to take your streaming to the next level.

Self-Esteem

It’s ok you can’t solve every problem, trying to “fix" everything can leave you feeling like a failure..

Updated May 10, 2024 | Reviewed by Ray Parker

• What Is Self-Esteem?
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• Your intrinsic value is more than what you can do for other people.

You are still worthwhile and can be successful, even if you don’t have all the solutions.

• Consider which decision will make you feel you’ve stayed true to your values.

In coaching others, I often discuss problem-solving strategies to help individuals think creatively and consider many options when they are faced with challenging situations.

Problem solving 1-2 includes the following:

• Define the problem, identify obstacles, and set realistic goals .
• Generate a variety of alternative solutions to overcome obstacles identified.
• Choose which idea has the highest likelihood to achieve the goal.
• Try out the solution in real-life and see if it worked or not.

Problem-solving strategies can be helpful in many situations. Thinking creatively and testing out different potential solutions can help you come up with alternative ways of solving your problems.

While many problems can be solved, there are also situations in which there is no “perfect” solution or in which what seems to be the best solution still leaves you feeling unsatisfied or like you’re not doing enough.

I encourage you to increase your comfort around the following three truths:

1. You can’t always solve everyone else’s problems.

2. You can’t always solve all of your own problems.

3. You are not a failure if you can’t solve every problem.

You can’t always solve everyone else’s problems.

When someone around you needs help, do you feel compelled to find solutions to their problem?

Are you seen as the problem solver at your job or in your close relationships?

Does it feel uncomfortable for you to listen to someone tell you about a problem and not offer solutions?

There are times when others come to you because they know you can help them solve a problem. There are also times when the other person is coming to you not for a solution to their problem, but for support, empathy, and a listening ear.

Your relationships may be negatively impacted if others feel that you don’t fully listen and only try to “fix” everything for them. While this may feel like a noble act, it may lead the other person to feel like they have failed or that you think they are unable to solve their own problems.

Consider approaching such situations with curiosity by saying to the other person:

• As you share this information with me, tell me how I can best support you.
• What would be most helpful right now? Are you looking for an empathetic ear or want to brainstorm potential next steps?
• I want to be sure I am as helpful as I can be right now; what are you hoping to get out of our conversation?

You can’t always solve all of your own problems.

We are taught from a young age that problems have a solution. For example, while solving word problems in math class may not have been your favorite thing to do, you knew there was ultimately a “right” answer. Many times, the real world is much more complex, and many of the problems that you face do not have clear or “right” answers.

You may often be faced with finding solutions that do the most good for the most amount of people, but you know that others may still be left out or feel unsatisfied with the result.

Your beliefs about yourself, other people, and the world can sometimes help you make decisions in such circumstances. You may ask for help from others. Some may consider their faith or spirituality for guidance. While others may consider philosophical theories.

Knowing that there often isn’t a “perfect” solution, you may consider asking yourself some of the following questions:

• What’s the healthiest decision I can make? The healthiest decision for yourself and for those who will be impacted.
• Imagine yourself 10 years in the future, looking back on the situation: What do you think the future-you would encourage you to do?
• What would a wise person do?
• What decision will allow you to feel like you’ve stayed true to your values?

You are not a failure if you can’t solve all of the problems.

If you have internalized feeling like you need to be able to solve every problem that comes across your path, you may feel like a failure each time you don’t.

It’s impossible to solve every problem.

Your intrinsic value is more than what you can do for other people. You have value because you are you.

Consider creating more realistic and adaptive thoughts around your ability to help others and solve problems.

Some examples include:

• I am capable, even without solving all of the problems.
• I am worthwhile, even if I’m not perfect.
• What I do for others does not define my worth.
• In living my values, I know I’ve done my best.

I hope you utilize the information above to consider how you can coach yourself the next time you:

• Start to solve someone else’s problem without being asked.
• Feel stuck in deciding the best next steps.
• Judge yourself negatively.

1. D'zurilla, T. J., & Goldfried, M. R. (1971). Problem solving and behavior modification. Journal of abnormal psychology, 78(1), 107.

2. D’Zurilla, T. J., & Nezu, A. M. (2010). Problem-solving therapy. Handbook of cognitive-behavioral therapies, 3(1), 197-225.

Julie Radico, Psy.D. ABPP, is a board-certified clinical psychologist and coauthor of You Will Get Through This: A Mental Health First-Aid Kit.

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At any moment, someone’s aggravating behavior or our own bad luck can set us off on an emotional spiral that threatens to derail our entire day. Here’s how we can face our triggers with less reactivity so that we can get on with our lives.

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