How to Troubleshoot a Computer

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer Tool Kits

1. Step 1

   Restart the computer. Many software problems will correct themselves when you do.

2. Step 2

   Check your cables. Keyboard not working? Make sure it's plugged in. Mouse not responding? Make sure it's plugged in.

3. Step 3

   Check the electric power. Plug a lamp into the same power outlet that's connected to your computer to make sure the outlet is working.

4. Step 4

   Make sure the computer and monitor are plugged in.

5. Step 5

   Disconnect peripheral devices (such as a printer or external Zip disk) and restart the computer.

6. Step 6

   Listen for unusual sounds. Is the cooling fan running? Is the hard drive making noises?

7. Step 7

   Look inside the computer for wires that aren't plugged in all the way or other faulty connections.

8. Step 8

   Start the computer from an external start-up disk, such as the system software CD that came with your computer.