How to Repair a Computer / PC or its Components – Step-by-Step DIY Guide
Some abnormalities in a computer’s integrated components may prove detrimental to its functionality, but some common computer problems can solve without professional IT assistance. To repair a computer, you need to decide if there is anything you can do to fix the problem. However, for more complex issues, consider seeking the help of a professional.
Update your Drivers
Believe it or not, but you have more software installed on your computer than Windows, your apps, and your games. These are small pieces of software that make sure that different parts of your device work together. However, if you often use outdated drivers, you will not make the most of your computer’s potential. You can use driver update software to scan and update your drivers automatically.
Defrag your Hard Drive
Well, if you are running a computer with a traditional mechanical disk drive, “defragging” is still an issue. New PCs come with flash-based storage (SSD), while older drives still use mechanical disks grouped into clusters. If you store and delete too many programs and files on your disk, the bits and bytes will mess up. Your mechanical disk makes it harder to put it all together, and this slows things down. A Defrag tool holds all these components together so that your computer can read them all at once.
Upgrade your Hardware if possible
- CPU: If you have an older CPU (1st or 2nd generation Core i3 / i5 / i7 or Core 2 Duo), it may be time to upgrade. In most cases, this can only do if you replace the entire motherboard because your existing motherboard has a different CPU slot or does not support the new CPU.
- RAM: Less than 4 GB of RAM? It is worth updating to 4 GBs or more.
- GPU: If you’re a gamer or video professional, upgrading from a 2-3-year-old graphics card can double or triple your performance.
- Hard Disk: SSDs these days are cheaper and easier to install – if you still have an older mechanical drive, this will have the most visible impact on performance.
Physically dust it off
As your computer fan blows air in and out of the system over the years. A dust bun family is likely to thrive in your device. These tend to slow down or stop your fans, leading to heat problems and (more) poor performance or frequent breakdowns.
Get new Peripherals
A new or premium mouse and keyboard can do things live, though sometimes more mental than useful. Replace the old 3-button mouse that came with your computer with something like a Logitech or Microsoft mouse, then your productivity (and fun level!) Will increase. If you can and should, try to get a new screen and new speakers to complete your “computer experience.” Even if your desktop is five years old, if it is surrounded by 2016 technology, the feeling that you need to replace it will be much less.
Check your Power Source
If your computer does not work at all, the fault is most likely the power supply (desktop only) or the motherboard. Ensure the connectors are properly connected, the switch on the back of the power supply is activated.
Test the Screen or Monitor
If you hear that the computer is working, but nothing is visible on the screen, check that your monitor is connected properly. Try switching monitors for laptops or plugging in an external monitor. Remove your laptop’s bottom panel and make sure the display cable is properly connecting to the motherboard.
Reset the RAM
Carefully remove the ram and try to force it. Most computers, when operated properly, will give a long, repetitive ‘memory error.’ Deactivate and replace the battery, one rod at a time—activation when the ram is properly seated.
Back-up your Data, if possible
Suppose you can boot into safe mode. Take the great opportunity to back up your important files and data as much as you can. Also, you can back up your files to an external hard drive or a flash drive. Further, if you can boot into Safe Mode with Networking, you can back up your data to a cloud storage service like Dropbox, iCloud, or Google Drive. If you are looking for how to repair a Computer or fix/modify your PC, this might be an important step before you take an action.
Clean Install
If your computer has been running for years and slows you down, a clean installation will usually give you vitality. Save your files, wipe your hard drive (be sure to back up all your important data beforehand), and install from a bootable USB drive for Windows 7, 8, or 10. Then reinstall your programs and customize everything you want!
Conclusion
If you have tried everything and your computer does not work or does not start, you will need to repair or replace your computer. If you have an old computer, it may be cheaper to buy a new computer than repair it. Or you can take it to a computer repair shop to have it repaired. If your computer is still under warranty, contact the manufacturer or retailer to see what you can do to repair or replace your computer.
This is a fair guide which explains how to repair a computer by yourself with a general knowledge. Also, don’t miss out this article which has listed a Top 5 Curved Computer Monitors.
