What’s Wrong With My Computer? Learn to Fix Computer Problems

Nothing can slow down work quite like computer issues. We’ve all been on a deadline when computer problems have slowed us down or brought our workflow to a grinding halt. We are so dependent on our computers for so many things that a system going down can feel like a power failure. It can be frustrating and stressful. Sometimes, we need to call upon IT experts to solve computer problems. However, for less complicated issues, there are a few things users can do to solve some of the simple computer issues that arise.

Ways to Fix Computer Issues

• Restart Your Computer – By restarting your computer, you will clear the RAM on your device. Clearing “Random Access Memory” might fix a computer that is hanging up or running slowly. You should also close all applications that are not being used so that the memory doesn’t immediately fill up again.
• Run a Complete Virus Scan – Cyberattacks by viruses and malware have increased dramatically over the past few years. With the pandemic spawning an unprecedented growth in remote-access work, cyber security has never been more vital. Many sluggish computers and system crashes are related to hacking. Before calling in professionals, run a virus scan. Although this task is time-consuming, it is worth your while to regularly run complete scans of your devices. By setting a virus scanning schedule, you might avoid frustrating computer problems in the future.
• Update All Software – Computer problems can arise from using old software or software for which patches and fixes have not been installed. Many programs auto-update. Accepting software updates is key to a system’s health. Developers are constantly working on software fixes and patches. Many updates secure cyber vulnerabilities. 

The most critical updates are related to your system. Unfortunately, Windows is the most targeted operating system. The good news is that Microsoft releases system updates and upgrades that address many functional computer issues.

• Remove Old and Unused Programs – Many users don’t think much about older and unused software applications on their devices. But too many of them can create “bloating.” Increased software installations on your hard drive can lead to more bloating. Bloating makes it more difficult for your computer to locate, open and save files. In the process of “over-working,” the data on the hard drive becomes spread out or “fragmented” and therefore more difficult to access properly.
  • www.wikipedia.org defines “fragmentation” as: “… a phenomenon in which computer storage space is used inefficiently, reducing capacity or performance and often both.”
• Check Your Wi-Fi Connection – a slow or unresponsive WiFi connection is easy to determine. First, check your WiFi signal strength. Ideally, a strong connection is indicated by all the WiFi bars being filled. Also, check to ensure that you are connected to the right network. If your device has lost its WiFi signal and was booted out of the network unbeknownst to you, it is essential to check whether it logged back into the correct one.
• Reinstall the Operating System – A clean, updated copy of your operating system can be reinstalled without losing any of your current software or data. However, reinstalling system software might be daunting for most users.

System analyses and repairs often require the knowledge of IT experts. Therefore, after trying the above self-repair suggestions, you should consider employing IT Consulting services to assess the problem. Unfortunately, most small to midsized businesses have neither the time nor the expertise to waste on most IT repair functions. In addition, tasks such as trouble-shooting computer problems are difficult for employees without tech experience and can inadvertently open the door to cyber security breaches and hardware failures.

IT Maintenance for SMBs

IT Maintenance has become a necessary 24/7 operation for small to midsized businesses. Computers and all your devices must be regularly monitored and maintained. Established security protocols and defenses must also be in place.

With the expanded use of remote and work-from-home employees, having a team of IT professionals to support your systems is essential for the smooth operation of your business. An IT support team can train your staff, update your software, reinstall operating systems, inspect and monitor your hardware and provide iron-clad cyber security for all your devices and networks. GEEK-AID^® Computer and Network Support specializes in customized Managed IT Services for small to midsized businesses. GEEK-AID^®'s team of experts is comprised of top specialists in different areas of IT services, serving clients onsite and remotely for Macs, PCs and all your connected devices. When your system is down, they will perform onsite computer repairs if required. And the GEEK-AID^® team doesn't clock out at five o'clock on Friday. They are available to you 24/7, remotely or in-person, to ensure your computers, network and data stay healthy and secure. As your business grows, expands its network and adds more devices such as smart controls, smart devices, wireless access and remote access, your network's cybercrime vulnerability and need for cyber security will grow, too. In addition to maintaining the hardware, software and security, employee training and regular IT support must be ongoing. New users and new devices will require additional training to use those devices efficiently. Hardware and software installation and maintenance, repair, cyber security and network protection are all related and must be consistent and proactive.

Every device connected to your network is a vulnerable access point for cybercriminals to breach your network from anywhere in the world. Call (877) GEEK-AID (877-433-5243) to help you maintain a secure, efficient and up-to-date system.