Should You Try and Fix Your Own Computer?
By Timothy Tibbetts |
We've been able to help people with their computer problems since 2001 with downloads that help you diagnose issues, how-tos, and even a support forum. If you've ever considered trying to fix your computer, here's our advice.
We're going first to discuss general considerations and then move on to software or hardware problems.
General Considerations
Sometimes it is rocket science is a saying we have here on MajorGeeks, but it doesn't hurt to at least use Google to attempt to diagnose your problem. Remember that Windows has millions of hardware and software configurations, so often, you will find numerous solutions to your question.
If you do have to take your computer to a computer shop, we recommend you look for your local computer repair shop. The techs at big box stores like Best Buy are capable, but Best Buy puts limitations on them. On the other hand, the local shops have always treated us right.
Important - Be sure you back up your important files, including Documents, Photos, and Videos. It's been our experience that many people are afraid to tackle repairing their computers because they haven't backed up their files and now it's too late. Everyone should have a thumb drive, second hard drive, and should back up routinely depending on how often you use your computer.
Software Problems
Tweaking.com - Windows Repair can solve any Windows problem by resetting and repairing Windows by resetting many Registry and system settings that cause problems.
If your issues are with Windows or third-party apps, Windows 10 now has more ways than ever to diagnose your problems.
Reset your PC can reset Windows to a brand new state. You'll need to have your files backed up and reinstall most of your apps, but Reset my PC is easier than reinstalling Windows with the same results. Watch this video to see just how easy it is.
Windows previously had some awful diagnostic tools, but they've stepped up their game with Windows 10 Troubleshooters, which can find and offer solutions to known problems. See Windows 10 Problems You Can Fix Yourself With Included Troubleshooters for more information.
When all else fails, you can reinstall Windows. You'll need to Create a Windows 10 Bootable USB Flash Drive With Windows 10 Media Creation Tool. Reinstalling windows should always be a last resort.
Hardware Problems
If you can't get into Windows, or you're having keyboard or mouse problems, try booting into Safe Mode. The reason for this is we just discussed Windows 10 Troubleshooters. They can diagnose hardware and software problems, so we thought we'd mention them first while fresh in your mind.
Swapping hardware is a fast way to diagnose some hardware problems if you have another computer or parts. We always keep as many parts as possible when recycling an old computer. You can't swap everything, but you can often swap memory, video, or a hard drive. Computers with an onboard graphics card can still accept a slotted video card.
Always unplug any peripherals you don't need to boot Windows. By doing so, you narrow down failed, failing, or conflicting devices. For example, disconnect any USB devices, sound cards, and wireless network cards. You're going to need your keyboard and mouse, of course.
Laptops and All-in-One computers are an entirely different beast but make no mistake; the hard drive and memory are always easy to find, remove, and replace. Many laptops have a small icon representing where the hard drives and memory are located, allowing quick and easy access to them. If not, you'll need to remove the back panel. Google your computer make and model and find a YouTube video for instruction.
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We're going first to discuss general considerations and then move on to software or hardware problems.
Sometimes it is rocket science is a saying we have here on MajorGeeks, but it doesn't hurt to at least use Google to attempt to diagnose your problem. Remember that Windows has millions of hardware and software configurations, so often, you will find numerous solutions to your question.
If you do have to take your computer to a computer shop, we recommend you look for your local computer repair shop. The techs at big box stores like Best Buy are capable, but Best Buy puts limitations on them. On the other hand, the local shops have always treated us right.
Important - Be sure you back up your important files, including Documents, Photos, and Videos. It's been our experience that many people are afraid to tackle repairing their computers because they haven't backed up their files and now it's too late. Everyone should have a thumb drive, second hard drive, and should back up routinely depending on how often you use your computer.
Tweaking.com - Windows Repair can solve any Windows problem by resetting and repairing Windows by resetting many Registry and system settings that cause problems.
If your issues are with Windows or third-party apps, Windows 10 now has more ways than ever to diagnose your problems.
Reset your PC can reset Windows to a brand new state. You'll need to have your files backed up and reinstall most of your apps, but Reset my PC is easier than reinstalling Windows with the same results. Watch this video to see just how easy it is.
Windows previously had some awful diagnostic tools, but they've stepped up their game with Windows 10 Troubleshooters, which can find and offer solutions to known problems. See Windows 10 Problems You Can Fix Yourself With Included Troubleshooters for more information.
When all else fails, you can reinstall Windows. You'll need to Create a Windows 10 Bootable USB Flash Drive With Windows 10 Media Creation Tool. Reinstalling windows should always be a last resort.
If you can't get into Windows, or you're having keyboard or mouse problems, try booting into Safe Mode. The reason for this is we just discussed Windows 10 Troubleshooters. They can diagnose hardware and software problems, so we thought we'd mention them first while fresh in your mind.
Swapping hardware is a fast way to diagnose some hardware problems if you have another computer or parts. We always keep as many parts as possible when recycling an old computer. You can't swap everything, but you can often swap memory, video, or a hard drive. Computers with an onboard graphics card can still accept a slotted video card.
Always unplug any peripherals you don't need to boot Windows. By doing so, you narrow down failed, failing, or conflicting devices. For example, disconnect any USB devices, sound cards, and wireless network cards. You're going to need your keyboard and mouse, of course.
Laptops and All-in-One computers are an entirely different beast but make no mistake; the hard drive and memory are always easy to find, remove, and replace. Many laptops have a small icon representing where the hard drives and memory are located, allowing quick and easy access to them. If not, you'll need to remove the back panel. Google your computer make and model and find a YouTube video for instruction.
Similar:
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