If your computer suddenly stops working, there are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue and get your computer up and running again. Before doing anything, make sure you have backed up all of your important data, including any documents, photos, and music files.
1. Check the power cord – Make sure that your computer power cord is securely connected to both the power outlet and the back of your computer. If it’s not, plug it in and see if the computer will turn on.
2. Reset the power – Unplug the power cord from both the outlet and the back of your computer for at least 10 seconds, then plug it back in and try turning the computer on again.
3. Monitor the display – If your computer starts but you don’t see the Windows logo or any other information on the screen, it is possible that the monitor isn’t working properly. Check the cables and make sure they are firmly connected to your computer and the monitor. Also, adjust the brightness settings on the monitor to make sure that the display is on.
4. Listen for fan noise – If your computer turns on but you don’t hear the fan running, this could indicate an overheating problem. Shut down the computer immediately and let it cool off for at least 15 minutes before trying to turn it on again.
5. Troubleshoot BIOS errors – When you turn on your computer, it should boot up into the BIOS (Basic Input Output System). If you encounter an error message or a blank screen instead, these can indicate hardware problems and you will need to investigate further.
6. Run a diagnostic – Most computers come with a pre-installed diagnostic program, such as Dell’s PC Checkup or HP’s Diagnostics solutions. This program can detect and fix hardware problems with your system.
7. Check for malware – If you haven’t run a malware scan recently, it’s possible that your computer is infected with malicious software. Run a scan and remove any threats that are found.
8. Update drivers – Outdated device drivers can cause many issues, including random shutdowns and start-up problems. Make sure you are running the latest version of all of your drivers.
9. Clean the interior – Dust buildup inside your computer can cause serious malfunctions. Open the case and use compressed air to blow out any dust or dirt that has accumulated.
10. Try a bootable repair disc – If none of the above steps have worked, you can create a bootable repair disc and run various system repairs from it. This disc can be created using Windows, a third-party program, or a Linux operating system.
If none of these steps are successful and your computer still isn’t working, it may be time to take it to a professional. A qualified technician should be able to diagnose and repair the problem, allowing you to get your computer back up and running.