How to Fix the 3 most Common Computer Problems

There are many reasons why your computer could be having issues. I have compiled a checklist of possible solutions for you to keep as a reference when any of these issues arise.

​Computer is Slow​

• Check that there’s enough space in storage.
• Restart your computer.
• Delete temporary files.
• Empty trash. 
• Check your files to see which files are no longer needed. You can delete them or store them in an external hard drive or leave them in the cloud without syncing to your computer.
• Remove unused applications and programs.
• Run a disc cleanup.
• Get rid of some of your Internet browsing history that takes up space in your computer.
• Update Operating System.
• Disable some of the startup programs you don’t need.
• Check your security program and scan for malware and viruses. 
• If possible upgrade your RAM (Random Access Memory) this holds your short-term memory for apps, different windows, and browsers. If you are exceeding 80% it will slow down your computer.

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​Hardware Problems ​

• Start by rebooting your computer.
• Scan the hard drive.
• Check the power supply and all cables and make sure they are all plugged and not damaged.
• The keyboard stopped working - Make sure it’s charged or plugged.
• Overheating - Make sure to keep your computer clean and free of dust. 
• Battery not charging - Laptop batteries have a lifetime cycle they go through the more you use it unplugged the faster you will hit this cycle. Try to plug in your laptop when you can or use a portable charger when on the road.
• If any of your hardware problems can’t be fixed it’s time to call a professional or buy a new device.​

Your Internet is Slow

These days most companies' tasks are done online, if you are having issues with a program or task it can be that your Internet is running slow.​

• Start by rebooting your computer and any equipment on the network. Unplug and wait 30 seconds or more to plug again.
• Run a speed test. Your provider may have a site for this or there are others you can find online.
• Notice both the upload and the download speeds. If upload speeds are low it will take a long time to receive files or web pages to load; on the other hand, if downloads are slow it will take a while to send out emails and large files.
• Check if there are any users are watching videos, or sending or receiving large files. Your Internet is being shared by everyone in your office so the speeds will be noticeable if there’s a lot of usage going on. 
• Clear your Internet history.
• Check hardware storage on your computer. If it’s 80% full it may start slowing down your computer in general.
• Check your router, Firewall, and other equipment.
• The issue could be in the Wi-Fi. Connect to the router with a cable instead and see if this improves the speeds. If things work then that means you need a stronger Wi-Fi signal.
• Scan for malware or viruses. 
• If your computer is very old that may slow down the Internet.
• if nothing works it may be time to upgrade your Internet Speed. 

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Adele Toral has over 20 years of experience in the Telecommunications and IT Industry. She helps clients resolve complex issues while reducing costs. She provides a No-Cost To-You Offering.

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