For your convenience we have listed solutions for common computer problems. Our goal is to weed out the simple fixes to reduce customer costs and frustration .
My computer is running slow and/or locking up…
Possible solution: If your computer has been running gradually slower, it could be a sign of low system resources, meaning that you may just need some file and disk maintenance or a minor inexpensive hardware upgrade. You can start by removing all programs that are no longer needed, defragment the hard drive and disable all start up programs not needed. * In some cases, sudden sluggish or non responsive applications could be signs that the hard drive needs to be replaced. If you have important data that you do not want to lose, you may want to quickly backup your data if it isn’t already. If there is too much data and/or don’t know where it is all located we recommend that you shut down the computer as soon as possible and contact us, we will be happy to help.
I have popups and unusual activity…
Possible solution: Sudden irregular behavior could be a sign of a virus. Promptly close all open programs, update, and run a scan on your computer with your anti-virus software. Also ensure your operating system has all of the latest service packs and security updates, which will allow your anti-virus software to operate as efficiently as possible. If you are unable to successfully remove the virus or were able to remove some viruses but are still having problems, don’t work around the issue. The issue will always get more difficult to remove. Do yourself a favor and stop while you’re ahead. Contact us today and we will have you up and running in no time.
Computer is making loud noises…
Possible solution: This is typically caused by worn out bearings from a fan making it grind or vibrate. It is recommended that the computer be shutdown until serviced (fans are cheap). If the computer continues to be used, it may overheat some components and cause serious damage. *In some cases it could also be the hard drive. If this is the case we highly recommend that the computer be shutdown immediately, even if there hasn’t been any loss in performance. Time is limited for loud hard drives and data needs to be backed up. Contact us, we are happy to help.
My computer will not load Windows, instead I get a black or blue screen…
Possible solution: This could be a number of things if there is an error code, this is a good place to start. If you recently installed some new software or a piece of hardware, that could be the culprit. We many times see this caused from corrupt Windows updates that did not successfully install or Windows not shutting down correctly. You could also have a virus, please see “I have popups and unusual activity” above. Unfortunately, there is no easy or quick solution but this will hopefully get you in the right direction.
No internet…
Possible solution: There are certainly many possibilities but the most common are related to your ISP (Internet Service Provider) supplied modem / router. These devices lockup and many times need to be power cycled. This can be done by simply removing the power plug from the modem/router and waiting 30 seconds before plugging back in. If this still 
does not correct the issue, follow the ethernet cable from the modem /router to the computer, you should see a two tiny lights where the cable plugs in. A steady green light (which shows connectivity) and an amber light (which shows activity and may blink periodically). The lights need to be lit and/or blinking. If not, then you have a cable disconnected or a hardware issue. If the lights are lit, then it is typically a software issue with the operating system. Many times a virus can cause this type of an issue. We recommend scanning for viruses, please see “I have popups and unusual activity” above. If problems continue with no success, don’t be discouraged, contact us and let us know the troubleshooting that you have already done. This will help us narrow down the problem and keep system downtime to a minimum.
