Fix My PC: 7 Step Guide
To PC Fix:
In my
computer repair business, I developed a
step-by-step checklist for my technicians to follow when
troubleshooting and
repairing a computer.
Very few Windows PC problems are obvious because almost any
error or problem could be caused by several different reasons.
So to make it easy, I am going to give you the first 7 steps
from the list that I would use if I were sitting at your
computer. Naturally, I give my technicians this same list when
they go on a
computer repair call.
1. Write down the exact problem: What is the
error message? What program were you using when you
first recognized there was a problem? When did it work
last and what was done since then?
2. Shut the
PC down properly, if you can. If not, turn
off the
computer using the power button. Check all
your cables and power cords going into and out of your
computer and peripherals.
Turn your PC back on. If you had to turn the PC off
using the power button, shut it down properly after
Windows has stopped loading. Believe it or not this
will clear up your problem a good share of the time.
If not go to the next step.
3. Make sure your
anti-virus and
anti-Spyware programs
are both updated with the latest definitions (if you
can connect to the
Internet).
4. Shut or turn off the computer again and
reboot it in safe mode. This time, when it
reboots, tap the F8 key on your keyboard until
you see the boot up screen (black screen with
menu options in white lettering). Using your
keyboard arrow keys select Safe Mode. Press the
enter key on your keyboard.
(If you cannot get to this screen, you need to
call in professional help; STOP and call a
technician.)
4. Shut or turn off the
computer again and
reboot it in safe mode. This time, when it
reboots, tap the F8 key on your keyboard until
you see the boot up screen (black screen with
menu options in white lettering). Using your
keyboard arrow keys select Safe Mode. Press the
enter key on your keyboard. (If you cannot get
to this screen, you need to call in professional
help; STOP and call a technician.)
5. Once in
Safe Mode, run a full
virus scan and
Spyware
scan. If any
viruses or
Spyware are detected
clean them up, then reboot your computer
again normally. Is it working now? If yes,
congratulations!
If not continue troubleshooting.
6. Run “defrag” and “scan disk” on your
hard
drive. These tools are already on your
computer. Look in: Programs (all programs in
Windows XP) - Accessories - System Tools7.
Run a System Restore (Windows ME & XP only).
Select a date previous to when you first
started having .
The problem. System restore is located in: Programs (all
programs in Windows XP) - Accessories - System Tools - System
Restore.
Many times these steps will solve your problem – and that will
save you lots of money. It makes sense because you’re using the
same troubleshooting checklist.
Unfortunately, if you have completed the above steps but you’re
still having a problem, then it’s time to call your computer
technician to repair your
computer.
About the Author :
The Computer Lady
Patty, the Computer Lady, teaches her
clients how to fix, protect and make their
computers last. She's been doing that for
over 11 years. Questions? Write: patty@fix-and-protect-your-pc.com
or visit her at:
www.fix-and-protect-your-pc.com/fix-your-pc.html
