File Genie: Blog

5 Common Computer Problems and How to Fix Them

22/7/2025

Whether you use a laptop for your small business or have a workhorse that caters for your whole family, when issues stop your computer performing properly it can really put a spanner in the works. Our lives are so reliant on tech that when it stops working it can seem like the end of the world especially if you rely on staying connected to the digital world or run a small business and need to access emails.

This month we thought we’d take a look at common problems you might encounter with your computer or laptop and offer ways in which you can remedy them and stay connected.

PC Not Turning on
This scenario always fills the user with dread – no response when you switch on your computer? No familiar whirring as the machine powers up? It’s an awful feeling and we’ve all been there! First things first – don’t panic! It’s likely to be a simple issue that can be fixed with little to no cost.

Is it plugged in and switched on at the wall? If the answer is yes, try a different socket.
If you’re using a laptop – does it need charging? If it’s plugged in already, try a different charging cable.
If you are tech savvy you can try booting up in safe mode to find the issue. Using a Mac? Try booting up in safe mode by following the instructions on this page: Safe Mode on a Mac
If you still can’t boot up you might be best getting some expert help!

Computer Running Slow
If your machine is taking ages to load apps, non responsive or freezing mid task there are a few remedies to try before you throw the thing out the window!

Clear the clutter – Over time your computer can get clogged up with files and apps that you no longer need and this will cause your machine to slow down. Spend some time decluttering and you might see an increase in performance.
Check for Malware – If decluttering doesn’t work you should do a scan to check your PC hasn’t picked up any malware or adware.

Slow Internet Connection
A common complaint that causes unnecessary stress, especially if you are in the middle of an online meeting!

Do a speed check! – Are you getting the speed your provider states you should be getting? Run a speed check – you need to do this through a wired connection first and then through WI-FI. If the speed check comes back as slow through both connections you need to contact your service provider.
Update your Router – If your router is old it’s probably time to replace it. Make sure it’s running the latest firmware. Make sure your router is password protected.
Update your Browser – Ensuring your PC is running the latest version of your internet browser will mean it is secure and it will run faster. Read our blog Get The Most Out Of Your Broadband.

PC Overheating
If your machine is overheating you will see issues such as poor performance and your machine randomly shutting itself down. It can be worrying when this happens and you do need to act promptly to prevent further problems.

Bust the dust – Dust is often the biggest cause of overheating. Use compressed air to clear dust from vents and fans.
Give your PC Space – Your PC needs to be in a well ventilated area with space around it to keep it cool. Laptops can be kept cool by using a cooling stand which allows the air to circulate.
Keep it cool – Use a cooling mat for your laptop to help stop it overheating. Keep it on a flat surface and avoid using it on your lap or on a bed.
Check the fans – If the fans don’t seem to be working properly you may need to replace the thermal paste on the CPU - we would recommend seeking help from a technician.

Unresponsive Apps
It’s frustrating when you’re mid task and suddenly the app freezes.

Force quit the app – key combination in Windows Ctrl + Alt + Delete and selecting Task Manager, or press Option (or Alt), Command and Esc on a Mac.
Restart the computer – If force quit didn't work then a restart might do the trick.
Update or reinstall the unresponsive app – Make sure you’re running the latest version. Sometimes apps can get corrupted so uninstalling then reinstalling can fix the bugs.

It can be stressful when your computer or laptop starts misbehaving or malfunctioning. If the solutions listed here aren’t working or you’re not confident carrying out some of the more complex tasks it’s advisable to get help from a professional. File Genie can help diagnose and repair your PC or Laptop and even teach you how to maintain your tech yourself.

Get in touch and find out more about our IT support.

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How Tech Can Help You Save Money

20/7/2022

Our top suggestions on how tech can help you save money.

This year we have seen prices rise dramatically- from energy to food, prices are continuing to spiral and there doesn’t seem to be a sign of them dropping anytime soon. It’s a scary time and we all need as much help and support as possible to help us through these difficult times. So we thought this month we would share some really useful ways that you can save money on some of your everyday costs using tech.

Add a Coupon or Cashback App to your Browser
Coupons are a great way to make savings and we now have a great selection of free apps that will do the hard work for you. Some will give you the discount in the form of cashback after you submit your receipt so it’s important you get and keep your receipt.

Cashback and coupons are great for things you needed to buy anyway but if the app is tempting you to buy something you don’t need then you really aren’t making a saving at all!

Sweeten your shopping with Paypal Honey. This free app can be added to Chrome, Safari and other browsers and it searches for coupons for over 3000 shops.

Vouchercodes is another well known coupon site and app that offers discounts and deals when you shop online.

For supermarket shopping Shopmium is another great free app to have to hand. It works in store or online at selected supermarkets and gives you exclusive offers and discounts that you get as cashback when you submit your receipts.

Top Cashback is probably one of the best known cashback apps. You can add the extension to your browser so you don’t forget when you shop online and there is also an app you can download to your smartphone. You can often get quite good returns on insurance and utilities so it’s worth a look when it’s time to renew.

Get control of your Finances
There are lots of budgeting apps out there all offering slightly different things. Some will link up with you bank accounts and help you keep track of your accounts, credit cards and savings while others will keep an eye on your payments and alert you when you are spending too much on different categories such as food, entertainment etc.

If you need help keeping no eye on where your money goes, then Emma is a great tool to keep you on the right track. The app analyses your subscriptions and keeps track of where you spend your money. The interface is simple to use so it’s great if you’re just getting the hang of budgeting.

Snoop is another good app that helps you track your money in one place, simply add your accounts to the app and it will show you all your transactions in one place. It also offers personalised money saving suggestions.

For money saving help there are a number of free apps out there. Chip monitors your spending and works out how much you could afford to save, then automatically moves the money into a savings account. Monzo is a free digital only banking app where you can set up a bank account and associated ‘Pots’ where you can set money aside i.e for bills, savings etc.

Get the Best Prices for Fuel
As fuel prices continue to make jaws drop it’s a great idea to be aware of the cheapest places to fill up in your area. Petrol Prices have an app you can use once you're signed up. It’s a great way to check which fuel station is offering the cheapest fuel at any given time.

Smart Life
You probably already have quite a lot of smart gadgets in your home so make sure you are making the most of them.

Hive are a great example of how we can live smarter. From heating to lighting, everything is linked and controlled in one app on your smartphone. Having smart features such as a thermostat that will switch off when a window is opened or motion sensor lights will save you money on your energy bills. Check out this Money Saving Expert guide to smart thermostats.

Smart meters are one way you can keep an eye on your energy usage (and take steps to reduce it if you need). They will help ensure you only get charged for the energy you’re using rather than relying on estimates. There are arguments to both sides when it comes to smart meters, especially as there are currently two generations of smart meter with the earlier version being unable to communicate with a new energy supplier if you switch.

If you would like any help with any of the apps or tech contact Ben here or why not pop along to one of our monthly surgeries over at The Kiosk at Itter Park?

What are your favourite money saving apps and websites? Leave us a comment and let us know.

Get The Most Out Of Your Broadband

19/11/2021

We’ve come a long way since the days of dial up internet and the associated time it took for - well, anything to happen really. If you don’t remember those days, then you should count yourself lucky.

Using the internet was often interrupted by someone (usually your mum or dad) trying to make a phone call or generally just slow and irritating.
Then broadband came along and changed life as we know it.

Suddenly you could access the internet at the touch of a button, no annoying dial up tone and everything was super-fast. That’s not to say it always runs smoothly, in fact more and more of us are dealing with slow broadband connection speeds daily. With our reliance on the internet for pretty much everything these days, it’s more than a little irritating if your broadband connection is running a bit under par.

But don’t panic just yet, there are a few tricks and tips you can try to help get the most out of your broadband:

Run a Speed Test
If you think your broadband is running much slower than the provider has guaranteed, then you should run a speed test. There are lots of online speed test tools, Thinkbroadband.com gives comprehensive results which you can then use when you contact your provider. You need to check your broadband speed through a wired connection first and then check through the Wi-Fi - if the speed is slow through both methods you need to contact your provider. If the speed is ok through the wired connection but slow with Wi-Fi, then you have a problem with your router.

Contact Your ISP
They should be able to help you work out what the cause could be.

Slow Wi-Fi
If you connect to your broadband using Wi-Fi, then there are a couple of things you can try to improve the speed such as moving your router:

Avoid metal objects and appliances that send out electromagnetic waves (metal is one of the biggest Wi-Fi signal disruptors) and keep it off the floor and as far away as possible from appliances such as tumble dryers, washing machines, microwaves and dishwashers. Ideally, your router needs to be as close to the centre of your house as possible and away from any obstructions.
Give the signal a boost by making sure the antennae are vertical and place it on a high shelf.
Update your router to make sure it’s running the latest firmware.
If your router is old, it might be time to upgrade - older tech is often outdated and it’s probably a good idea to replace it.
Invest in a Wi-Fi extender to give your Wi-Fi a much-needed boost. Check out TechRadar’s suggestions.
Make sure your router is password protected.

Update Your Browser
Make sure you’re using the latest version of your browser as this will offer better security and run faster.

Most importantly, remember you have a right to request a decent broadband service. From March 2020 if your download speed is less than 10 Mbps and your upload speed is less than 1 Mbps you have a right to request an upgraded service. Find out more here >.

Contact File Genie for further help with your broadband/Wi-Fi speed or for advice on upgrading your router.