How to Troubleshoot a Computer

Before calling technical service and paying for "help," take a look at your computer yourself. A little common sense may help you solve simple hardware and software problems.

Step1

Restart the computer. Many software problems will correct themselves when you do.

Step2

Check your cables. Keyboard not working? Make sure it's plugged in. Mouse not responding? Make sure it's plugged in.

Step3

Check the electric power. Plug a lamp into the same power outlet that's connected to your computer to make sure the outlet is working.

Step4

Make sure the computer and monitor are plugged in.

Step5

Disconnect peripheral devices (such as a printer or external Zip disk) and restart the computer.

Step6

Listen for unusual sounds. Is the cooling fan running? Is the hard drive making noises?

Step7

Look inside the computer for wires that aren't plugged in all the way or other faulty connections.

Step8

Start the computer from an external start-up disk, such as the system software CD that came with your computer.