PC Troubleshooting for Dummies: Simple Solutions to Common Problems

Are you frustrated by software issues on your computer but feel overwhelmed by technical jargon? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll break down software troubleshooting into easy-to-follow steps that even beginners can understand. By the end, you’ll be equipped to tackle common software problems with confidence.

Slow Computer Performance

Problem: Your computer is crawling like a snail, and you’re losing patience.

Solution: Start by closing unnecessary programs and browser tabs. If that doesn’t help, try these steps:

• Disk Cleanup: Go to the Start menu, search for “Disk Cleanup,” and follow the wizard to remove unnecessary files.
• Uninstall Unused Software: Open the Control Panel, click on “Uninstall a program,” and remove software you no longer need.
• Try a cleaning utility like the free version of CCleaner or PrivaZer
• Upgrade RAM*: If your computer is still sluggish, consider upgrading your RAM for a performance boost.
• Upgrade to a Solid State Drive (SSD*): Upgrading to an SSD drive can make your entire system feel better than new again. Aside from energy savings and longer life expectancy, a basic SSD drive can offer 10-15x faster performance than a mechanical spinning hard drive. Additionally, Windows can be cloned to the new drive so you loose absolutely nothing!

Green Dragon Technology does offer hardware and software upgrades. Please reach out to us to discuss these processes and pricing.

Software Crashes or Freezes

Problem: Applications keep crashing or freezing, leaving you frustrated.

Solution: Try these simple fixes:

• Update Software: Ensure that your applications are up to date by checking for updates in their settings or from the software provider’s website.
• Reinstall Problematic Software: Uninstall the problematic application and reinstall it.
• Check for Viruses and Malware: Run a full system scan using your antivirus software to rule out malware-related issues. Try the free versions of both SUPERAntiSpyware and MalwareBytes.

Can’t Connect to the Internet

Problem: You can’t get online, and you don’t know why.

Solution: Troubleshoot your internet connection:

• Check Cables and Wi-Fi: Ensure all cables are connected correctly, or if you’re on Wi-Fi, restart your router and reconnect.
• Restart Your Computer: Sometimes, a simple restart can solve connectivity problems.
• Restart your Router and networking equipment: Most people don’t realize that your router is a tiny computer that directs traffic (has an operating system, memory, etc.). Sometimes it needs to be rebooted as well. Simply unplug your networking equipment for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. Be sure to wait about 5 minutes for everything to sync back up again from your ISP.
• Reset Network Settings: In Windows, you can reset network settings by going to “Settings > Network & Internet > Network Reset.”

Missing or Corrupted Files

Problem: You can’t find important files, or they won’t open properly.

Solution: Don’t panic; try these steps:

• Check the Recycle Bin: Sometimes, files get deleted accidentally. Open the Recycle Bin to recover them.
• Use File Recovery Software: If files are permanently deleted, you can use free file recovery software like Recuva.
• Restore from Backup: If you have backups, restore your files from there.

Annoying Pop-Ups and Adware

Problem: Pesky pop-up ads keep intruding on your browsing experience.

Solution: Tackle adware with these tips:

• Run an Adware Scan: Use reputable antivirus software to scan and remove adware. Again, both SUPERAntiSpyware and MalwareBytes can assist with this one.
• Browser Extensions: Check your browser’s extensions or add-ons and remove any suspicious ones.
• Block Pop-Ups: Adjust your browser settings to block pop-ups. My favorite is uBlock Origin which offers a fantastic blocker for every major browser.

Remember, software troubleshooting doesn’t have to be daunting. These straightforward solutions should help you resolve many common software issues. If you encounter more complex problems or your issue persists, don’t hesitate to seek help from a tech-savvy friend or a professional technician. With a bit of patience and the right guidance, you can conquer software problems like a pro!

Lastly, if you just can’t seem to get it figured out, feel free to reach out to us. Many services can be done remotely. Book an appointment with us anytime!