Everyday IT Support – #5 Common Computer Issues and How to Fix Them

Everyday IT Support – #5 Common Computer Issues and How to Fix Them

As much as we all wish it weren’t the case, sometimes tech fails us. It can be pretty frustrating to deal with even if you do have some IT know-how and the downtime can quickly take your day from productive to disastrous. Here are some of the most common computer issues along with tips on how to solve them. And if you don’t come right, our IT team is just a call away.

#1 – Your Computer Keeps Dropping the Wi-Fi Connection

These days, working without an internet connection is impossible, no matter your business or industry. If your Wi-Fi is up and running but your computer is having trouble connecting or keeps dropping off the connection, the most likely issue is that your network card in your computer isn’t getting enough power.

To fix this, check your Power Options in Advanced settings. Look at the Wireless Adaptor Settings and make sure Power Saving mode is set to maximum performance.

#2 – Your Computer is Running Slowly

If your computer starts becoming slower and slower while starting up or opening applications, the poor performance can cost you in terms of productivity. Rather than dealing with the endless wait, there are a few fairly simple things you can do to fix this issue.

Start by doing a basic software clean-up, uninstalling apps that you aren’t using. Prioritise those apps that you see in your Task Manager that are using the most resources. If you don’t recognise an application, it’s best to talk to our IT support team as you may have malware on your computer that’s using up your resources.

If loads of apps open when you start up your computer, go to the task manager and see what is running in the background. Disable apps that you don’t need on startup to stop them from automatically opening and running when you restart your computer.

You should also make sure that all your apps, software and operating system is running on the most recent updates, as this can slow your computer down as well as put you at risk of malware and security issues.

#3 – The Screen is Blank

If your computer still seems to be running and operating normally but the screen is blank, it’s likely a problem with the connection between the screen and the rest of the computer. If you are using a PC with a separate screen, try swap out the screen with a spare. If you are using a laptop, it may be internal damage to the computer (this is common because the wiring runs through the vulnerable hinge section), but a professional should be able to repair it. In the meantime, you can plug in an external screen to your laptop and use that. This is a good way to backup files you’re working on so you can use a replacement computer while repairs take place.

#5 – Strange Noises

The most common reasons for strange, loud noises to come out of your computer are malware, overheating, or a noisy fan. First, check your task manager to see if any unknown programs are running in the background. Make sure your antivirus is up to date and run a full scan. If that’s clear, the problem is likely your fan, which can be replaced easily. If the computer tower or laptop feels very hot to the touch (especially if it is in the sun or it’s a hot day), it may be overheating. This can burn out your computer, so turn it off and let it cool down. The fan is a key cooling component, so it’s worth it to have your IT department look it over and make sure it’s working.

At Otto, we know how important it is to be able to rely on your tech. Our talented IT support team is available 24/7, every day of the week to help you out. No problem is too big or too small, and we’ll do everything we can to get you back up and running as quickly as possible.