Common Computer Problems (and the Sensible Things to Try First)
Most computer problems aren’t serious — but they feel serious when they stop you working, studying, or staying in touch.
Before you panic (or spend money you don’t need to), try the safe, sensible checks below. These checks fix most everyday issues in under 10 minutes. If they don’t, it usually means the problem needs a proper diagnosis — not guesswork.
Quick navigation
A quick safety note (worth reading)
Most of the steps below won’t affect your files at all.
However, before trying anything marked Advanced, it’s sensible to make sure important documents and photos are backed up to the cloud (OneDrive / Google Drive) or an external USB drive.
Think of this as insurance — not a warning sign.
The “First 3 Minutes” Rule (Always Start Here)
Before diving into specific fixes, do these three things. They resolve a surprising number of problems caused by updates, crashes, or temporary glitches.
1. Restart once (don’t just shut down)
Go to Start → Power → Restart.
In Windows, a restart clears temporary memory and resets the system more thoroughly than simply turning it off and on again.
2. Force a shutdown (if frozen)
If the mouse or keyboard won’t respond:
- Hold the Power button for a full 10 seconds.
- Wait a few seconds, then turn the computer back on.
3. Strip it back
For random or unexplained issues, unplug everything except:
- Power
- Monitor
- Keyboard and mouse
Restart and see if the problem still happens.
Faulty USB devices (printers, webcams, hubs) are surprisingly common culprits.
Computer Won’t Turn On / Laptop Won’t Power On
No power at all
- Try a different wall socket (avoid extension leads while testing).
- Reseat the power cable at both ends.
- On desktop PCs, check the I / O switch on the back of the power supply is set to I (on).
Laptop “static reset”
If you see lights or hear fans but nothing happens:
- Unplug the charger.
- Hold the Power button for 15 seconds.
- Plug the charger back in and try again.
Screen stays black
- Press Windows + Ctrl + Shift + B to reset the graphics driver (you may hear a short beep).
- Make sure the monitor is on and set to the correct input (HDMI / DisplayPort).
- Reseat the monitor cable at both ends.
- Laptop users: If an external monitor works, press Windows + P and make sure it isn’t set to “Second screen only”.
Tried the static reset and still nothing? It might be the power circuit or motherboard. At that stage, further home testing rarely helps — it’s a diagnosis job.
Book a "Tech Rescue" DiagnosisWindows Is Slow or Crashing
Windows stuck on loading / spinning dots
If Windows hangs on startup, disconnect all USB devices and restart. If it persists, safe mode (below) is your next step.
Startup slowdowns
- Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc).
- Go to Startup apps.
- Disable items you don’t recognise or don’t need immediately.
The HDD vs SSD check (very common)
If your computer takes several minutes to become usable after logging in, it likely has an older mechanical hard drive (HDD).
Upgrading to a Solid State Drive (SSD) is often the single biggest improvement you can make. If the computer is otherwise reliable, an SSD upgrade is usually better value than replacing the whole machine. See our Slow Laptop / PC Tune-Up service for help with this upgrade.
Advanced: How to confirm storage is the problem
Open Task Manager → Performance. If “Disk” usage regularly sits at 90–100% when you’re not doing much, and the drive type is listed as an HDD, the system is being limited by hardware rather than software.
Blue Screens (BSOD) or Boot Loops
Occasional blue screens can happen. Repeated ones usually point to corrupted system files or failed updates.
Advanced recovery steps (optional)
System file check:
Boot into Windows or Safe Mode, open Command Prompt (Admin), and run:
sfc /scannowThis scans and repairs Windows system files. Let it finish even if it seems slow.
Boot loops or restarts at the logo:
- Turn the PC off as it starts up, three times in a row.
- This triggers the Windows Recovery menu.
- Try Startup Repair or System Restore.
“No Boot Device” message:
- Unplug any USB drives or memory sticks.
- Restart and see if the message clears.
Blue screens can mean failing hardware (RAM, Drive). Better to catch it early.
Check my HardwareOverheating & Hardware Care
- Always use laptops on a hard surface, not beds or blankets.
- Use compressed air in short bursts to clear air vents.
Sudden shutdowns usually mean heat or dust build-up and are best dealt with properly.
Internet & Wi-Fi Issues
Wi-Fi connected but no internet
- Restart the computer.
- Restart the router (unplug for 30 seconds, then wait a few minutes).
Advanced network checks (safe)
The incognito test:
Open your browser and press Ctrl + Shift + N. If websites work in a private window but not normally, a browser extension or corrupted data is usually the cause.
Network reset commands:
Open Command Prompt / Terminal (Admin) and run:
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdnsThese reset network settings without affecting your files.
Wi-Fi dropouts
- Forget the network in Settings → Network → Wi-Fi.
- Reconnect fresh.
- Switch to 5 GHz if available.
- If usage is high or your router is old, see our Wi-Fi Rescue & Network Help.
Storage, Camera & Microphone
Low disk space
- Aim to keep 10–20 GB free.
- Use Settings → Storage → Temporary files.
Microphone / camera issues
- Go to Settings → Privacy & security.
- Ensure app access is set to Allow.
- Check the correct device is selected inside Zoom or Teams.
Login & Security Problems
Most login and browser problems turn out to be fixable without data loss.
- Locked out: Reset Microsoft accounts using the official recovery page (a phone often helps).
- Local accounts: Recovery or reset may be required.
- Browser pop-ups: Remove unknown extensions and use your browser’s “Reset settings” feature. Persistent infections may need our Security Shield service.
- Precaution: Change important passwords from a separate, clean device.
⚠️ When to Stop Testing Immediately
Stop testing and get professional help if you notice:
- Burning smells or visible sparks.
- Clicking or grinding noises from inside the computer/drive.
- Instant shutdowns every time you power on or open a program.
- Important files disappearing or at risk of being overwritten.
At that point, continued use can make recovery harder.
Need a Hand?
If you’ve tried the sensible steps above and things still aren’t right, Marple Tech Help can diagnose, explain, and fix the issue — without jargon or pressure.
Whether it’s a quick visit, remote help, or a proper repair, I’ll tell you honestly what’s worth fixing — and what isn’t.
Book a "Tech Rescue" Visit