Frozen screens, glitchy programs, mysterious lights, and strange pop-ups can be pretty concerning when you’re using your computer as usual. But don’t be too alarmed – there could be a simple fix!
Often times issues appear to be bigger than they are upon first glance. That’s why there are a few things you should do before you even call up tech support. It could save you loads of time and money.
What to Do Before You Call Tech Support
Computer issues are a pain, especially when your computer is an essential component of your business’s day-to-day operations.
But do you want to know what’s even more of a pain? Navigating through a menu of pressing 4 for this and pressing 1 for that until you finally get on the line with a live representative is the worst.
Here at TechTactonics, we specialize in tech and IT support, so we won’t put you through the pain of looping through an automated system. One of our live representatives is available to help you work out your computer issues, but there are a few steps you should take before ringing for help.
In this guide, we’re covering 11 things to do before you call tech support so you can troubleshoot your computer troubles right away.
1. Save Your Work
Before you take any action to try to work through your computer troubles, save all of the documents you’re working on. Clicking “save” upfront could prevent tons of trouble down the line.
If it’s possible, save your documents to the cloud or an external hard drive. You don’t want to lose anything in the event that your computer is damaged to the point of no return.
2. Look for Clues
There are a few telltale signs that could lead you to the source of your computer problems. Red or blinking lights are often clues to let you know that something is wrong.
Clues may also appear in the form of pop up windows, or notification bars. It is easy to subconsciously ignore important notifications and alerts.
Don’t click anything that appears suspicious.
3. Restart Your Program
Whether you’re working on an application or a web browser, sometimes programs just need to either be refreshed or restarted.
You can simply close out of the program. If that doesn’t work, click “ctrl + alt + delete” and use the Task Manager to close out of the open program.
Open it back up and see how it works.
4. Reboot
The power of a reboot is undeniable. Power down your computer, give it a few moments, then start it back up.
Make sure that you save all of your progress and bookmark any pages you’re using so that nothing is lost when you reboot.
5. Check the Vitals
It may sound silly, but many computer issues have very simple causes. Have you checked to make sure everything is properly plugged in completely? Is there a loose cable? Are the lights on?
These things may seem insignificant, but they make the difference between a working and malfunctioning computer.
6. Delete Your History
Something in your browsing or download history may be giving you issues. Resolve these issues by deleting your history and temporary files.
If this is not enough, navigate to your computer’s “Downloads” folder and delete anything that you don’t need. If the problem still exists, try deleting other downloads.
In order to avoid this completely, be very careful with what you download and where you download it from. Many newer computers have filters that protect you from issues that come with dangerous downloads.
7. Google It
If our Support team or knowledge base doesn’t have the answers you need, you can always do a Google search of your issue. Often, you will come across forums specific to the tools you are using where other users present solutions to common problems.
If you have trouble with a specific site or program, check out their FAQ pages. Usually, the company’s website will have their own knowledge base to help you solve the issue without having to contact tech support. We also recommend venturing to the company blog to see if the company outlines the most common issues users face in their blog posts.
8. Run an Antivirus Software
Your computer issues may be a little more deep-rooted than you had anticipated, but don’t worry too much yet.
Run antivirus software to detect any sort of virus or malware that has infected your computer. Newer computers should have built-in antivirus software. Windows Defender is better than nothing; Contact us for our preferred solutions.
9. Store Your Passwords
Did you know that more than a third of the calls that tech support lines receive are password related?
Avoid calling tech support by storing your passwords somewhere safe. A password manager like Keeper, Lastpass, or one that your IT service provider recommends is the safest option.
Make your passwords something that you will remember but not something that is so easy that it will make you susceptible to cybersecurity threats.
Knowing When It’s Time to Call
Even if you’ve tried just about everything to get your computer up and running properly, it may not be enough.
When you reach the point where experimenting with solutions may cause permanent damage or you’re simply over the hassle of fixing your computer, reach out to us.
We are here to help you through your computer struggles.