Top 10 Common Computer Issues and How to Fix Them
We rely on our computers for everything from work and school to gaming and entertainment, so when something goes wrong, it can be incredibly frustrating. Fortunately, many common computer problems have simple solutions. In this post, we'll look at the top 10 most frequent PC issues and what you can do to resolve them.
π» 1. Slow Performance
Symptoms: Programs take forever to load, system is sluggish.
Fix:
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Uninstall unused programs
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Disable startup apps via Task Manager
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Run a disk cleanup or defragment the hard drive (HDD only)
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Consider upgrading RAM or switching to an SSD
π 2. Computer Won’t Turn On
Symptoms: No power, no display, or just a black screen.
Fix:
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Check power cables and power source
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Try a different wall outlet
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If it’s a laptop, remove and reinsert the battery (if possible)
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Reset the BIOS/CMOS
π 3. Frequent Crashes or Freezing
Symptoms: Blue screen (BSOD), freezing mid-task, automatic restarts.
Fix:
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Run hardware diagnostics
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Check for driver updates
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Scan for malware
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Clean out internal dust — overheating can cause crashes
π 4. Internet Connectivity Issues
Symptoms: No connection, slow browsing, or constant disconnects.
Fix:
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Restart your router/modem
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Update your network drivers
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Try using a different browser or device to rule out hardware issues
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Use Windows’ built-in network troubleshooter
π 5. No Sound
Symptoms: Audio not working from speakers or headphones.
Fix:
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Check if the audio is muted or turned down
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Set the correct output device in sound settings
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Reinstall or update audio drivers
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Try different speakers or headphones
π¦ 6. Pop-Ups and Unwanted Programs
Symptoms: Ads, toolbars, or software you didn’t install.
Fix:
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Use antivirus or anti-malware tools (e.g., Malwarebytes)
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Remove suspicious programs in Control Panel > Programs
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Clear browser extensions
π¨️ 7. Printer Won’t Work
Symptoms: PC can't detect the printer, or print jobs fail.
Fix:
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Make sure the printer is on and properly connected
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Reinstall printer drivers
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Set the printer as default
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Run the Windows Printer Troubleshooter
π 8. Forgotten Password
Symptoms: Locked out of your system or online accounts.
Fix:
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Use password reset tools or recovery options
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Create a password reset disk (for future use)
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Consider using a password manager
π 9. Missing or Corrupted Files
Symptoms: Important files won't open or have disappeared.
Fix:
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Check the Recycle Bin
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Use file recovery software (e.g., Recuva)
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Enable File History or backup regularly to avoid data loss
π 10. Software Not Installing or Opening
Symptoms: Installer crashes, program won’t start, or errors appear.
Fix:
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Run the installer as administrator
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Check compatibility with your system version
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Ensure you have enough storage space
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Disable antivirus temporarily during installation (if safe to do so)
Final Tips π‘
Prevention is always better than cure:
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Keep your system updated
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Run regular antivirus scans
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Back up important data regularly
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Avoid suspicious websites and downloads
π¬ Have you experienced any of these issues? Let me know in the comments — and feel free to share your own quick fixes!
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