I am sure you have experienced a computer issue at least once in your life. From slow speeds and poor performance to data loss and security threats, computer problems come in many shapes and forms, but some are more common than others. Knowing what the top computer problems are can help you better prepare for them and even prevent them from happening in the first place.
In this article, we will dive into the top issues that can plague your computer. Whether it’s slow performance or unexpected crashes, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s get started!
What Are the Most Common Computer Problems
So, what are some of the most common computer problems? Here are a few of the key issues that often plague computers of all shapes and sizes:
1: General Showdown
Have you ever experienced a day when your desktop computers seems to take forever to complete a task or even open a program? If yes, then you might have experienced a general slowdown. It is one of the most common problems that everyone encounters, and it can be frustrating to deal with, especially when you have deadlines to meet.
Possible Causes
The general slowdown is a frustrating problem that can be caused by several factors. The most common reason is outdated hardware components or outdated software. Running too many programs at once or having too many files open can cause your computer to slow down as well. Malware, viruses, and spyware can also be a factor in the general slowdown. These are some of the root causes that need to be addressed to fix the general slowdown issue.
Solutions
To fix the general slowdown issue, there are several things you can do. Upgrading the computer’s hardware problem such as the hard drive, RAM, or processor can help eliminate the issue. Updating your software and operating system to the latest version can also help. Cleaning your computer’s cache, temporary files, and disk space can also help improve its performance. Uninstalling unwanted applications or programs that are not in use can also improve the computer’s speed.
- You can fix the general slowdown problem by running regular virus scans and updating virus definitions. Malware, viruses, and spyware can slow down your computer significantly. Running regular scans will help get rid of these malicious programs that can harm your computer’s performance.
- Using a third-party optimization program like “CCleaner” can also help reduce your computer’s general slowdown issues. CCleaner allows you to clean your computer’s registry, uninstall unwanted programs and stop unnecessary start-up programs. By doing so, you can improve your computer’s speed and performance.
- It would be best to consider how you use your computer if you often have multiple programs open at once, and your computer tends to slow down, try to close any programs that are not in use. Restarting your computer once a week can also refresh or reset your system and help eliminate any common computer issues.
2: Disconnecting to WIFI
Perhaps you have experienced the frustration of browsing on your computer or phone, and out of nowhere, the WIFI connection decides to disconnect! I have personally experienced it countless times and trust me, it is not a fun experience. It is particularly problematic when you work from home or attend online classes.
Possible Causes
Among the most common causes is interference from other electronic external devices that emit waves like microwaves, Bluetooth devices, or even baby monitors. Walls or furniture can also block WIFI signals and lead to disconnection. Your network hardware or software can malfunction, your router might be outdated. Or even interference from other networks nearby can cause your WIFI to disconnect.
Solutions
So, how do we fix this? One simple solution is to restart your WIFI router which helps to refresh the internet connection. You can do this by unplugging the router, waiting for a minute, and then plugging it back in. Consider updating your router’s firmware to the latest version or checking that your router is placed in an open space away from appliances and furniture. If you notice that your WIFI only disconnects when you are far away. Or in a certain part of your house, you can try using a WIFI extender to boost internet speed.
Another possible solution is to configure your computer’s network settings. It is possible that your computer’s settings are not compatible with your WIFI connection. You can try disabling then re-enabling your WIFI connection, forgetting then rejoining the network, or updating your computer’s network adapter driver. Moreover, try optimizing your network settings by tweaking the power management settings ( task manager or control panel) in the open device manager.
You can also try changing your WIFI channels or frequencies. Most WIFI routers use channels 1, 6, or 11 which most WIFI users are aware of, meaning that the channels can become crowded and slow. You can use a WIFI analyzer app to check which channel is the least crowded and change your router’s channel accordingly. This can greatly help eliminate disconnection issues.
3: The Computer Won’t Start
We’ve all been there – ready to tackle a big project or binge-watch your favorite show only to be met with the dreaded black screen. Yes, the computer won’t start. It can be frustrating, especially if you’re not tech-savvy.
Possible Causes and Solutions
There are various reasons why your computer won’t start and power button issue can be one of them. Make sure your computer is plugged in properly and that the outlet you’re using is functioning. Check the power strip if you’re using one. Also, look for any signs of damage to your power cable or cord. If the issue is power source related, a quick fix would be to replace the power cord or try a different outlet.
It could also be due to software issues. If your computer freezes or shuts down during an update or installation, it might not boot up properly. In this case, try to reboot the computer in Safe Mode. This way, you can troubleshoot the issue and fix any software problems. If you’re not sure how to boot in Safe Mode, you can look up tutorials on the Internet or ask a tech-savvy friend for help.
Hardware problems can also cause your computer to not start. For example, if your hard drive is faulty, your computer might not boot up or might freeze during the boot process. Besides the hard drive, you should also check other components such as the RAM, graphics drivers or network card, and motherboard. Make sure they’re properly installed and functioning. If you suspect a hardware issue, it’s best to take your computer to a professional repair shop.
4: Keyboard Issues
We’ve all encountered keyboard issues at least once in our life. Whether it’s a missing key or laptop keys that no longer respond, these issues can be annoying and disrupt our workflow. Let’s discuss these issues and their simple fixes a little deeper.
Sticky or Unresponsive Keys
This happens when crumbs, dirt, or dust particles get stuck at the bottom of the key. To fix this problem, the first thing you need to do is turn off your laptop or computer. Then, use a compressed air canister to blow out any debris beneath the keys gently. This should free the keys and make them work again.
Missing Keystrokes
Ever experienced typing an essay or an important email and noticing that certain letters or keys are missing from your text? This can be frustrating, but it’s another common keyboard problem. One reason for this issue is the slow response time between the keyboard and the computer. If it’s a laptop keyboard, you should try cleaning the area around the keys with a soft cloth or rubbing alcohol. You should update or reinstall the keyboard driver on your computer as well. Sometimes this helps solve the issue.
Physical Damage
If you have accidentally spilled liquid or food on your keyboard, it’s likely that the internal circuitry has been physically damaged, which can cause keys to stop working. In this case, it might be best to replace the entire keyboard or seek professional help. There’s usually no one-size-fits-all solution for physical keyboard damage as each case is unique.
Wireless Keyboard Connection Problems
If you’re using a wireless keyboard, connection problems can occur. The solution is always to make sure that the keyboard is fully charged, and the battery is replaced because that’s usually a significant issue. Ensure that the keyboard and computer are compatible and that no other wireless devices interfere with the connection.
Outdated Drivers
Outdated drivers can cause trouble with your keyboard. If your keyboard isn’t responding or typing correctly, the first thing to do is to check online for the latest keyboard drivers. They can be downloaded from the official keyboard manufacturer’s website, or you might have them included in the driver’s software or program on your computer.
As you use your keyboard regularly, always remember to turn off your computer, regularly clean the keys, and have it checked by professionals once in a while can help prolong its lifespan.
5: Audio Issues
We all know how annoying it feels when you’re trying to watch your favorite movie or listen to your favorite song, but there’s little to no audio coming out of your computer.
First, let’s dive into what might be causing the issue. The most common causes of audio issues on your computer are system updates, outdated audio driver problems, incorrect audio settings, malfunctioning hardware, or even a virus. Many people run into these problems without even realizing it, as the hardware may seem fine, and the software might work perfectly well otherwise. But to fix the issues, we need to understand their root cause.
Solutions
One of the easiest and quickest ways to fix audio issues is to check the computer’s volume settings. Ensure the audio is not muted or turned down too low. It’s surprising how often we forget to turn up the volume or accidentally mute it. Once you’ve checked the volume, you can try updating your audio drivers. Obsolete audio drivers often cause a multitude of audio-related problems.
Check if the audio cables are unplugged or have become loose. It’s essential to check the hardware of the computer from time to time for glitches to avoid any unexpected problems. If you’re still having trouble after checking the hardware, try running a virus scan. Many viruses target audio drivers and disrupt the audio system, so it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
If after all these checks, the issue persists, try running the audio troubleshooter. In Windows, it’s straightforward to use the audio troubleshooter. Go to the settings section, and click on “Updates & Security,” followed by “Troubleshoot.” Select “Playing Audio,” and the troubleshooter will detect any issues with your speakers and troubleshoot accordingly.
6: Blue Screen
The blue screen of death is a sign of serious problems in your computer’s system. They usually appear when there are hardware or software conflicts that the computer can’t handle and will shut down to protect itself from further damage. It could also be because of a malfunctioning or incompatible hardware device, such as your RAM, hard disk, or graphics card. It could also be due to overheating or power issues. Another cause could be outdated or corrupted device drivers that need to be updated or replaced.
Solutions
Now let’s move on to how to fix it. Depending on the cause, there will be different solutions to remedy the situation. If it’s a hardware issue, such as a damaged hard disk or malfunctioning RAM, you may need to have the hardware replaced. However, If the problem is due to overheating, you can try cleaning your computer’s hardware to ensure proper airflow. If it’s because of outdated or corrupted device drivers, you can try updating or reinstalling them.
Another way to fix the blue screen of death error is by running the CHKDSK command in Windows. CHKDSK is a utility that checks and repairs disk errors. You can run this command by opening the Command Prompt and typing “chkdsk” followed by the drive letter of the affected device (i.e., chkdsk C:). This process may take some time to complete, but it could save you from the dreaded blue screen errors in the future.
Moreover, running a virus scan is also essential in preventing blue screen of death errors. Viruses and malware can be the cause of many computer issues, including the blue screen. Consider downloading trusted antivirus software that can scan and remove any malicious software on your computer.
7: Computer Restarting
There are several reasons why your computer might keep restarting on its own. It could be due to hardware or software issues, such as overheating or a corrupted operating system. One of the most common causes of computer restarting is a problem with the power supply unit (PSU), which could be failing to deliver enough power to your computer’s components, resulting in sudden shutdowns and reboots.
If you suspect that your computer’s power supply unit is causing constant restarts, you can check it by opening the computer’s casing and checking the voltage output using a multimeter. This can help determine whether the power supply unit is working correctly or not. If it’s not functioning correctly, you can replace it with a new one.
Another reason why your computer might keep restarting is due to overheating. When your computer overheats, it triggers the built-in temperature sensors, which will instruct the computer to shut down or restart to prevent any damage from occurring. To avoid this issue, you can clean the computer’s internal components, especially the fan, to ensure that there is no dust buildup.
A corrupted operating system can also cause your computer to restart constantly. In this case, you might need to reinstall the operating system or perform a system restore to an earlier point. Additionally, running a malware scan can help detect and remove any virus or malware that might be causing the issue.
If you have tried all the troubleshooting steps mentioned above and your computer is still restarting, it could be due to failing hardware components such as the RAM, hard drive, or graphics card. To determine which component is causing the issue, you can run diagnostic tests to identify the faulty hardware component and then replace it with a new one.
These are some of the most common computer problems that you may encounter. Understanding their causes and knowing how to troubleshoot them can help keep your computer running smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should I do if my computer freezes or crashes frequently?
If your computer freezes or crashes frequently, your computer is likely overloaded, and you need to free up some memory. One way to do this is by closing any unnecessary programs that are running in the background. You can also try restarting your computer and running a virus scan to ensure that your computer is not infected with any malware that could be causing the problem. If none of these options work, consider upgrading your hardware, such as your RAM or hard drive.
Q: How do I clean up my computer and free up disk space?
Cleaning up your computer and freeing up disk space can be achieved in several ways. First, you can uninstall any programs that you’re no longer using. You can also delete any unnecessary files or folders on your computer, such as temporary files, browser cache, and downloaded files. Another option is to use disk cleanup tools that come built into your operating systems, such as Windows Disk Cleanup or macOS Disk Utility.
Q: How can I recover deleted files on my computer?
Accidentally deleting files is a common occurrence, but thankfully, you can recover them. One way to do this is by checking your computer’s recycle bin or trash folder. If the files are not there, you can use file recovery software to try and recover them. Some popular file recovery software options include Recuva, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, and Stellar Phoenix Windows Data Recovery.
Q: How do I resolve a mouse not working on my computer?
If your mouse is not working on your computer, several potential issues could be causing the problem. First, ensure that your mouse is properly connected to your computer or that the batteries are replaced or charged. If the mouse is still not working, try updating your mouse drivers or reinstalling them. Restarting your computer can also sometimes resolve the issue.
Final Words
After doing some extensive research and experiencing a few tech mishaps of my own, I can confidently say that the most common computer problems are a pain in the neck. From annoying pop-up ads to slow processing and pesky viruses, there’s always something that can go wrong with our digital devices. But despite the frustration that comes with navigating these issues, I also believe that they help us to become more tech-savvy and ingenious problem-solvers. After all, who doesn’t enjoy that victorious feeling of fixing a computer glitch on our own? So, the next time you encounter one of these pesky issues, take a deep breath, check the fixes and solutions above, do some troubleshooting, and get ready to feel like a tech superhero.
