We get it.
PC issues are the worst. All you want to do is rip out your hair and smash in your screen with the nearest caveman-like weapon.
But before you go and do anything like that, we have a few helpful pointers for you. In fact, they’re so helpful that you might even make fun of the old hairless, bat-wielding version of yourself.
Here are 3 super common PC issues and simple steps on how to fix these issues in 30 seconds … or less.
Problem #1: The blue screen of death
The blue screen of death is an issue that’s plagued Windows users for years, and while it’s not the end of the world, it sure feels like it.
The BSOD is an error screen on Windows computer systems that appears after a serious system error. If the dreaded blue screen of death shows up on your monitor, your computer will be unusable, and you’ll probably shed a tear or two … or 10.
The solution:
This BSOD is pretty easy to fix yourself, even if you don’t know that much about computers.
If you don’t mind losing some data, then you can uninstall any recent hardware drivers or updates on your system. To do this, use the System Restore feature to reverse any changes made over the last few days.
And if you’ve got more time on your hands, go ahead and perform a quick computer scan, too. Pesky viruses might have infested your master boot record (a fancy name for the device that controls the computer start-up process).
Problem #2: Your computer is really, really loud
If your computer is louder than the last concert you went to, then you’ve probably got a problem. Luckily, this is one of those hardware issues you can easily fix.
The noise is most likely coming from the fan inside your computer. This fan keeps your computer from overheating, but over time, it can lose its touch and make an awful racket.
The solution:
Use could use the hose on a vacuum cleaner to remove dust from the vent in the back of your computer. But that might take a bit longer than 30 seconds.
Instead, you might be able to get by if you kill off some of your processes. Visit the Task Manager to view which processes are running and stop the ones you don’t need to run. Fewer processes means less work for your computer — which means your fan won’t need to work as hard and make all that racket.
Problem #3: Your Wi-Fi keeps disconnecting
So you’re in the middle of a Skype (or better yet, Cisco Webex Teams) call, and suddenly, the person on the other end just freezes. What’s going on?
In all likelihood, your Wi-Fi is probably the culprit. Bad Wi-Fi connections are the worst. But, don’t worry, this one is also a pretty easy fix.
The solution:
First, check whether you’re in good range of your Wi-Fi router or Wireless Access Point (at home, this is probably a Wi-Fi router). A weak connection could be to blame here. And while you’re at it, make sure nothing is interfering with your router — this can be anything from nearby Wi-Fi networks to indoor appliances.
If that’s not the issue and you have more than 30 seconds to spare, try installing the latest drivers for your computer’s wireless card. If you’re using Windows, head over to Device Manager (Start menu, Device Manager, right-click on Network Adapters) to find out if there’s anything you need to download.
So you’re not a computer whiz. That’s not a big deal. Very few people are. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t help yourself out. And more oft than not, you won’t need a box of complicated tools or spare parts to do that..
And hey, if you’re looking for more helpful hardware and PC tips, bookmark this super-useful article from CNET.
