Many repairs are not simple to find. Having 20+ years experience, I will be able to solve most problems in a very short time. Don't put off calling me as your computer will get worse quickly and making it harder to fix. 20+ Years AT&T Mainframe Diagnostic Trouble-shooter Tech

To troubleshoot your computer,

follow the steps in each section below in order, starting with the initial steps and moving on to the more advanced steps if you're comfortable doing so.

Before You Begin

The troubleshooting tips provided here range from often-overlooked "no-brainers" to more involved solutions that require you to open your computer's case and handle hardware components or delve deeper into Windows' core. Remember that your goal here is to solve an existing problem, not create a new one. If performing a certain action makes you uncomfortable, call in someone with more expertise. And if you do decide proceed with any of our Advanced Steps, please keep the following considerations in mind:

   * Prior to opening your computer's case, check to see if the machine's warranty is still valid. If so, send it back to the manufacturer for repair, as digging around inside the case can void the warranty. You may also try calling your PC's manufacturer for tech support, especially if you've already paid for it. Often, tech support can provide quick fixes or will replace faulty components that are still under warranty. Many manufacturers offer online chat, email support, and other options in addition to phone support.

* Before making any hardware adjustments, take the appropriate safety measures. First, purchase an anti static wrist strap and mat. While static electricity might sound like an annoyance only, it can severely damage your computer's internal components. You'll also want to make sure that you and your machine are both properly grounded, so keep the computer plugged into the wall but the power switch turned off when working with its internal components. As a final precaution, remember to hold on to the metal part of the computer's case when handling any electrical parts.

   * Although all computers contain most of the same core internal components (hard drive, processor, RAM, graphics card, etc.), the locations of those components can vary from machine to machine. Before you reseat, remove, or replace any internal components, arm yourself with a working knowledge of computer components, what they do, and how they interact with one another. (To learn more, read How Stuff Works' article How PCs Work.)

   * Hardware, BIOS (basic input-output system, built-in software that controls the keyboard, mouse, display, and other hardware and functions), firmware, and other software tools vary by manufacturer. Keep all of your computer documentation, driver CDs, and warranty information in a safe place. Be sure to dig out your computer's manuals before changing any settings.    (Back to top)