10 Common Tech Problems and How to Fix Them
Technology frustrations happen to everyone. Before calling for help, try these simple fixes that solve the most common problems. You might be surprised what you can fix yourself!
#1: Computer Running Slowly
The most common complaint! A slow computer is usually fixable without buying a new one.
Quick Fixes:
- Restart your computer — This simple step clears memory and fixes many issues
- Close unused programs — Look for programs in the taskbar and close what you're not using
- Run Disk Cleanup — Search for "Disk Cleanup" in Windows to remove temporary files
- Check for updates — Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates
#2: WiFi Not Working or Slow
Internet problems are frustrating, but often have simple solutions.
Quick Fixes:
- Restart your router — Unplug for 30 seconds, plug back in, wait 2 minutes
- Check if WiFi is on — Look for WiFi icon in taskbar, make sure it's connected
- Move closer to router — Distance and walls weaken WiFi signal
- Forget and reconnect — Settings → Network → WiFi → Click your network → Forget → Reconnect
💡 Tip: If all devices lose internet, the problem is likely your router or internet service. If only one device has issues, the problem is with that device.
#3: Printer Won't Print
Printers are notoriously finicky. Here's what to check first.
Quick Fixes:
- Check printer is on — Look for a solid green or blue light
- Check paper and ink — Make sure there's paper loaded and ink/toner isn't empty
- Check connection — For USB: cable firmly connected. For wireless: printer connected to WiFi
- Clear print queue — Settings → Devices → Printers → Open queue → Clear all
- Restart everything — Turn off printer and computer, then turn both back on
#4: No Sound
No audio coming from your computer? Usually an easy fix.
Quick Fixes:
- Check volume — Click speaker icon in taskbar, make sure volume is up and not muted
- Check headphones — If headphones are plugged in, sound goes there instead of speakers
- Check output device — Right-click speaker icon → Sound settings → Make sure correct device is selected
- Run troubleshooter — Settings → System → Sound → Troubleshoot
#5: Mouse or Keyboard Not Working
Input devices stop working? Here's how to get them going again.
For Wireless Devices:
- Check batteries — Replace with fresh batteries
- Check USB receiver — Make sure the small USB dongle is plugged in
- Turn off and on — Use the power switch on the device
For Wired Devices:
- Check connection — Unplug and replug the USB cable
- Try different USB port — Some ports may be damaged
- Restart computer — This reloads device drivers
#6: Laptop Battery Draining Fast
Laptop not lasting as long as it used to? Try these tips.
Quick Fixes:
- Lower screen brightness — The screen uses the most power
- Close unused apps — Programs running in background drain battery
- Turn off WiFi/Bluetooth — When not in use, these drain battery
- Use Battery Saver mode — Click battery icon → Select "Battery saver"
- Check battery health — After 2-3 years, batteries naturally hold less charge
#7: Webcam Not Working
Video calls becoming a problem? Here's how to fix your camera.
Quick Fixes:
- Check for physical cover — Many laptops have a privacy cover that slides over the camera
- Check app permissions — Settings → Privacy → Camera → Allow apps to access camera
- Close other apps — Only one app can use the camera at a time
- Restart the video app — Close and reopen Zoom, Skype, etc.
#8: Computer Frozen / Not Responding
When your computer stops responding completely, here's what to do.
Step-by-Step:
- 1.Wait 30 seconds — Sometimes the computer is just processing
- 2.Try Ctrl + Alt + Delete — This opens a menu where you can open Task Manager
- 3.In Task Manager — Find the non-responding program and click "End Task"
- 4.If nothing works — Hold the power button for 10 seconds to force shutdown
- 5.Last resort — Unplug power (and remove battery on laptops if possible)
⚠️ Warning: Force shutdowns can cause data loss. Only use as a last resort.
#9: Running Out of Storage Space
"Low disk space" warnings? Here's how to free up room.
Quick Fixes:
- Empty Recycle Bin — Right-click → Empty Recycle Bin
- Clear Downloads folder — Delete files you don't need
- Run Disk Cleanup — Search "Disk Cleanup" and run it
- Uninstall unused programs — Settings → Apps → Sort by size
- Move files to cloud — Use OneDrive, Google Drive, or Dropbox for photos/documents
#10: Email Not Sending or Receiving
Email issues can be stressful. Here's how to troubleshoot.
Quick Fixes:
- Check internet connection — Email needs internet to work
- Check spam/junk folder — Missing emails may have been filtered
- Log in via web browser — Go directly to gmail.com or outlook.com to check
- Check storage space — Full inbox can stop new emails from arriving
- Verify password — Try logging in fresh to make sure your password works
The Golden Rule of Tech Troubleshooting
Have you tried turning it off and on again?
It sounds like a joke, but restarting genuinely fixes about 80% of tech problems. Always try a restart first before anything else. It clears memory, resets connections, and gives the system a fresh start.
Problem Not Solved?
Some problems need an expert touch. Our technicians can remotely connect to your computer and fix the issue while you watch.