Basic Computer Troubleshooting Guide

Hi all... We J & S Networkers are back with some basic PC troubleshooting tips and tweaks. We felt most of our viewers are interested in learning the PC troubleshooting and maintenance techniques. 

The arena of PC troubleshooting and maintenance seems to be huge always, however there is always a right way to nail down the exact area of problem which can be sought out at the glance.

Come Lets Dive into the fun of PC troubleshooting and maintenance.

Scenario 1: Can't start your computer? Check the basics.

1. Examine the cables, connectors, and power cords to make sure they're plugged in securely.  Often times a loose cable or connector (power, network, keyboard, mouse, speaker, monitor cable, etc.) is the cause of the problem.
2. If you're using a power strip or a surge protector, make sure it's on and that it works. Remember that a surge protector may not be working because it is designed to self-destruct. When an electric jolt is too much, your surge protector takes the hit saving your more expensive hardware from the voltage.
3. Try plugging something else directly into the electrical outlet to make sure there isn't a power problem.
4. Check to see if your monitor is on.  Sounds silly, but it has solved my own problem more than once.

Scenario 2: No its ON but cant connect to the internet ? 

1. Check to see if anyone else around you is having a similar problem. If so, there may be a service outage affecting a wider area

2. Check to make sure the network cable is connected to both the computer and the wall or modem. 

3. Check where the network cable connection is made to the back of the computer, you should see a little green light right where the cable connects.  If the light isn't on or flashing, then you are not getting a signal to the computer.  If rebooting doesn't fix it, contact the Help Desk or your ISP.

Error Messages - Write them down.

1. What tipped you off to the problem? Sometimes it's an error code or message displayed on screen. Be sure to write it down — it may describe the problem and how serious it is. Be sure to document the exact wording of any error messages.  This can make the job of the Help Desk much faster. 
2. Other times you get no warning — everything just freezes. Message or no message, be sure note what was going on when the problem occurred. Were you starting your computer? Were you on the Windows Desktop? Were you in a particular application? Surfing the Web?