Five simple DIY computer repair solutions

A lot of us are so reliant on our computers that when something goes wrong, like the power going out or the water going out, it is a big problem. Naturally, you want to get your system running again as soon as possible, but that's often harder to do than it sounds. Because every computer's system and settings are unique, it's no exaggeration to say that almost anything can go wrong. When it comes to troubleshooting your way back to a machine that works, it can be hard to know where to start.

However, you would be surprised at how many issues share a single, straightforward cause. Try these easy steps to see if you can fix the issue on your own before seeking professional assistance, which we still recommend in many instances.

1. Conduct a comprehensive virus scan

It's obvious, but it works: Start your virus scanner, run the deepest and most comprehensive scan that is available, and then let it do its thing. It is important to keep in mind that the type of scan that looks at the most files and takes the longest to complete may not be the one that is scheduled to run on your computer by default; therefore, you should check the program settings to see what is available. In order for your scanner to catch the most recent wave of malicious code, you should also ensure that it is up to date first.

It's worth seeking a second opinion because antivirus scanners can sometimes miss threats or be disabled by them. Applications like Kaspersky Security Scan for Windows or macOS, Microsoft Safety Scanner for Windows, or Emsisoft Emergency Kit for Windows are examples of lightweight, on-demand scanners that can be installed alongside your primary security software as a second layer of protection.

On Windows 10, the Windows Defender window displays virus threat, protection, and other factors.

On Windows 10, Windows Defender checks a number of computer health factors. David Nield Windows has a history of being targeted by more malware, so there are more antivirus programs available for it. Even though macOS is completely locked down, especially if you only use applications from the Mac App Store, you can never be sure you are safe, so it's always worth having one or two antivirus programs on hand to fix system issues.

Computer slowdowns and crashes of all kinds can be brought on by viruses and other forms of malware. If your system has become sluggish, suddenly behaves strangely, or appears to be overloaded with advertisements, it's worth running a scan. Your antivirus program will know how to deal with threats if they are discovered; If you get a clean bill of health, you can try some other ways to troubleshoot to get rid of the problem.

2. Up to date software

Software that is out-of-date and not patched can lead to a lot of problems with computers, like ransomware outbreaks and keyboards that don't respond when you tap on them. Your computer might reboot unexpectedly when you weren't expecting it to because of the importance of many updates, which is a good thing because many of them now happen automatically.

Prioritize your operating system. On Windows, you can open Settings and then click Update & security to look for updates; On macOS, select the Updates tab after opening the App Store from the dock or the Applications screen in Finder. Check to see that any pending updates have been applied.

A computer's update status is displayed by Windows Update.

The majority of software updates ought to be handled automatically, but it's always a good idea to check. Even if you have your web browser and antivirus program set to automatically update, David Nield recommends checking for updates to all of your other applications. Any app should have a fairly prominent update feature; however, if you get stuck, you can use the built-in help options.

Your issues may have been resolved after applying all of the updates that you can find. Maintain this procedure in the event that they are to be fixed as well as to prevent future issues. You should encounter fewer computer issues if as many of your installed applications are updating themselves automatically in the background.

2. Reduce the amount of bloat

You might think that leaving older, inactive programs on your hard drive isn't a big deal. However, as more applications pile up, your operating system has to work harder and the files on your computer get broken up more often and spread out more as your computer tries to save them-a process called fragmentation. As a result, the available storage space may quickly run out.

It's possible that your computer is simply creaking under the weight of all the software you've installed if you've noticed that it's running more slowly, crashing at random times, or showing other kinds of buggy behavior. In Windows, you can uninstall applications you no longer use by going to the Apps section of Settings and dragging the app shortcut into the trash. In macOS, you can do the same thing. By clicking and holding on an icon until it shakes, some macOS applications can be removed from the Launchpad. After that, click the X icon. Google Chrome extensions can be enabled or disabled.

David Nield: Your browser will run more smoothly if you keep it as simple as possible. Having too many extensions and add-ons can cause a significant slowdown or erratic behavior, so limit your extensions to those you actually need and use. Go to More Tools, then Extensions, by clicking the three dots in the top right of Google Chrome; Select Add-ons from the main Firefox menu; Additionally, select Extensions from the main app menu in Microsoft Edge.

A number of issues, including occasional crashes and slow performance, can occur if your computer runs out of disk space. After removing unnecessary applications, try removing unnecessary files as well, such as movies you've already watched or duplicate photos you've safely backed up elsewhere. In general, you will encounter fewer issues if your system is less bloated.

3. Test your Wi-Fi connection

This method of troubleshooting is only applicable to issues related to the internet-a very specific type of problem. Finding the source of the issue is crucial to getting your internet back up and running, and conducting some detective work isn't as difficult as you might think.

Use an Ethernet cable to connect your laptop or desktop computer directly to your router if at all possible. The issue may be with the hardware of your router or your internet service provider if you continue to not receive internet service or if nothing connected to Wi-Fi (such as smartphones and tablets) is receiving internet service. If that is the case, the best thing you can do is call the company and ask for help.

a list of Wi-Fi networks that are accessible on an Apple macOS computer.

Problems with Wi-Fi frequently have simple solutions. David Nield: If some devices are able to connect to the internet while others are unable to, this indicates issues with those devices. We can't cover every possible problem here, but resetting those devices, updating the software that came with them, and turning off and on Wi-Fi to start from scratch are all good first steps.

You may have a problem with your Wi-Fi network if your computer connects to the internet when plugged directly into the router but not when browsing over Wi-Fi. We've written before about how to get the strongest signal possible throughout your house; however, if that doesn't work, reboot your router and go into its on-board settings. A quick internet search for the router's make and model should give you some ideas for troubleshooting.

4. Reinstall the operating system

Reinstalling Windows or macOS from scratch is a more extreme version of the above-mentioned "cut down on the bloat" strategy. It removes problematic programs, numerous viruses and malware, resets the settings of your internet connection, and generally gives you a clean slate. Before beginning the reinstallation process, you should check to see that you have backed up all of your data.

The ease with which Microsoft and Apple have made reinstalling their operating systems makes this a worthwhile endeavor. On Windows, go to Update & Security from Settings, select Recovery, and then select Get started under Reset this PC (more here). On macOS, however, the procedure will differ depending on whether your computer has an Intel or Apple silicon processor. Turn on your device and hold the power button until the startup options window appears for the few new silicon models. Click Continue after selecting Option. Turn on your Mac and hold down Cmd+R to launch the Utilities program if you have an Intel processor (more information here). Then, follow the instructions of the installer.

Windows computer reset with options to keep files or delete everything.

The process of resetting Windows is no longer time-consuming and laborious. David Nield Although there is no guarantee that resetting your system to the beginning will resolve the issue you are experiencing, doing so may theoretically do so. It's not the best option for everyone because you'll have to deal with the hassle of getting all your applications and files back on the system. However, based on our experience, it has proven to be an efficient remedy for numerous computer issues.

Although we cannot guarantee that any one of these five hints will resolve your issue on its own, they will at the very least enable you to rule out some fundamental possibilities in terms of their underlying causes. We are also not trying to diminish the significance of your computer repair service; if your computer is still having issues at the end of this guide, that should be your next stop.

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