If your computer won’t boot up, there are a few steps you should try before taking the machine to an IT professional or trying more drastic measures. First, try to troubleshoot the problem yourself.
1. Check the power supply: Make sure that the power cable is properly plugged into the wall outlet and the back of the computer. Try using a different wall outlet in case the original one isn’t working. Also, check to make sure the power button is actually being pressed, as this could be a cause of the computer not booting.
2. Check the RAM (Random Access Memory): If the memory has failed, it will prevent the computer from booting up. Check if any of the RAM sticks were dislodged or damaged. In such cases, replacing the old RAM with newer RAM may resolve the issue.
3. Check the hard drive: The hard drive is the storage area of the computer, and it contains the operating system, software, and files. If the hard drive has failed, then the computer won’t be able to boot. To check the hard drive, run a diagnostic tool or use a program like HDTune to see if there are any errors or bad sectors on the drive. If any errors are found, then the hard drive may need to be repaired or replaced.
4. Check the boot sequence: The boot sequence is the order in which the computer starts up. The BIOS is responsible for the boot sequence, and it can be accessed by pressing “F2” or “Delete” during startup. In the BIOS, check to make sure that the first device in the boot sequence is set correctly. It should point to the hard drive containing the operating system.
5. Check the graphics card: If the graphics card has failed or been disconnected, then the computer won’t boot. To check the graphics card, remove the side panel of the case and inspect the card. Make sure all of the connections are tight and there are no signs of damage.
6. Check the CPU fan: The CPU fan helps to keep the CPU cool and prevent the computer from overheating. If the fan isn’t working, then the computer won’t be able to boot. To check the fan, hold a hand at a distance of two inches from the CPU and feel for air movement. If you don’t feel any air movement, then the fan may need to be replaced.
7. Check the motherboard: The motherboard is home to all of the components within the computer and can be damaged if the computer is subjected to electric shock or other mishaps. If the motherboard has been damaged, then the computer won’t be able to boot. To check the motherboard, remove the side panel of the case and inspect it for signs of damage. If you see any bulging capacitors, then the motherboard may need to be replaced.
8. Check for viruses and malware: Viruses and malware can cause a wide range of problems, including preventing the computer from booting. Run a thorough virus scan and malware scan using reliable anti-virus and anti-malware programs. If any infections are found, then they should be removed or quarantined before attempting to boot the computer again.
9. Check the BIOS version: The BIOS version can become outdated over time, and this can cause the computer to crash during startup. To check the version of the BIOS, restart the computer and press “F2” or “Delete” during startup. In the BIOS, check the version number and compare it to the latest version available on the manufacturer’s website. If the version is out of date, then updating the BIOS may help to resolve the issue.
10. Try a system restore: If none of the above steps have worked, then you can try a system restore. This will restore the computer to a previous point in time when it was working correctly. To do this, restart the computer and press “F8” during startup. Select “Troubleshooting” and then “System Restore”. Follow the onscreen instructions to select the most recent restore point and restore the computer.
If none of these steps work, then you may need to resort to more drastic measures, such as reformatting the hard drive and reinstalling the operating system. If none of these methods work, then the computer should be taken to an IT professional for further diagnosis and repair.