Computer Troubleshooting Guide

Are you looking for a computer troubleshooting guide? No connection or a slow connection can be caused by a number of things, including some which are not your fault. Working through the problem is usually relatively easy so there is no need to call an outside service in which can be costly.

1. If you have no connection at all but your modem lights are working, contact your service provider. This should always be your first step in computer troubleshooting if you can not operate your computer. The customer service reps usually know when an area is affected with an outage that is affecting your computer connection. You may also need to explain your proximity to local stations for them to know if there is an outage affecting you.
2. If you have the ability to turn your system on but can not browse this can be caused by a number of things. First, always check your firewall first to ensure the settings are consistent with what you set them to and that the firewall is still operating. If everything looks okay with your firewall continue your computer troubleshooting by pinging yourself or your internet service provider. To do this on your Windows operating system click start, then click run. Type in your loopback or service providers ip address, ping-t (your loopback or service providers ip address). You can also type your service providers IP address in the address bar without a connection to the internet as a way of computer troubleshooting. From the providers website you can test your modem to ensure you have a proper connection.
3. If you have recently downloaded new software, it may cause problems. Uninstall the newly added software unless it is vital for the operating system. After uninstalling you may need to continue computer troubleshooting techniques.
4. Always keep your drivers and software up to date. This rule applies to all programs on your computer. Outdated drivers and/or software can cause a variety of problems.
5. "Ccleaner" is a free program available for download. Always keep this program on your computer. This program can even be accessed in safe mode in owner or administrator rights by clicking my computer, C:, programs, Ccleaner. Open the program and run it daily to remove useless items left behind from installs or updates.
6. Defrag often to avoid computer troubleshooting on a regular basis. This rule applies to Windows operating systems only.