Far more people know how to operate a computer than fix one when it crashes. While some cases call for a computer repair service, there are a few issues you can likely fix on your own. Whether your computer crashes at work or at home, here are a few fixes for common problems.

How to Fix Common Computer Issues

1. Power Down the Device

Before calling a computer repair service, try turning off the device and rebooting it. Computers work by following lines of complex code, one line after another. In some cases, because of the way instructions between the operating system and program applications overlap, the computer finds it cannot follow the next instruction. It has essentially "painted itself into a corner" and cannot proceed. Rebooting the computer removes the paint and lets the device start over. Sometimes a computer using Windows will not power down which may require you to force it to power down. To force a desktop to power down, simply unplug the power cord. On a laptop you may have to hold the power button for 10 – 15 seconds. Wait for 3 – 5 minutes after powering down a computer before you try powering it back up.

2. Determine If Your Device Is the Problem

Often, if you’re online or attached to a computer network, you may discover that computer problems are actually computer network problems. For instance, if the internet connection is slow or spotty, don't assume the problem is local. A problem could be occurring on the site you're trying to access and your computer is simply unable to connect to it. Try another website. If you cannot access the internet at all, check to see if your Wi-Fi router has power or if the service is temporarily down. If service is not down, try restarting the router and wait 3 – 5 minutes before powering the router back up. If this doesn’t resolve the issue and there are no outages in your area, call a computer repair service for assistance.

3. Let It Cool Down 

If your device repeatedly stops working unexpectedly and restarts during use, the computer might be overheating. This often happens when users work on their laptops while reclining in bed. The bedclothes bunch up beneath the device's exhaust ports and prevent hot air from escaping. The device shuts down to protect itself from frying delicate components. If this happens to you, remove the laptop from the bed and place it on a hard, flat surface. Consider elevating the backside by placing a book under the edge to allow more airflow.

If at-home attempts don’t solve your computer woes, contact New Hope Telephone Co-op in Madison County, AL. Although they began as a phone company more than 60 years ago, today they offer broadband internet service, computer repair services, cable television, and burglar alarm and security monitoring systems. Visit their website to learn more about these and other offerings, or call (256) 723-4211 to schedule an appointment today.