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! 

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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. 

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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.

Day 1- Organise the photos on your Smartphone
Go through your photos and delete the pictures you don’t want. Next, organise your photos into folders so you know where to find those special pictures and finally, make sure you backup your photos- either to an external drive or to the cloud.

Day 2 - Clean up your desktop
Delete files and folders you no longer use or need. Organise everything else into the correct folders (anywhere except on your desktop). The result will be a nice clean looking desktop and hopefully it will run a bit faster too!

Day 3 - Update your Antivirus
Don’t give the hackers an easy ride- make sure your antivirus software is up to date and running (including your smartphone).

Day 4 - Update Your Operating System
An outdated operating system will slow down your device and make it vulnerable to security issues. Update your OS now to fix known bugs and security holes.

Day 5 - Delete unwanted Apps
Free up some space and speed up your device by getting rid of apps you no longer need or use.

Day 6 - Tidy up your Email Folders
1000’s of unread emails in your inbox? Organise them now and delete the rubbish. You’ll feel so much better once you’ve had a good clear out!

Day 7 - Backup Your Data
While you’re getting organised it’s a good time to make sure you have backed up all your important data- we recommend using an external drive as well as backing up to the cloud.

Day 8 - Use a Password Manager
Many of us will be doing lots of Christmas shopping online so it’s important to have strong passwords for your accounts. Keeping a track of them can seem impossible but password managers are a great way to generate and store those all important details.

Day 9 - Clean your Hardware
Dust, grease and grime can damage your pc and other devices so show them some love and spruce them up before Christmas! Clean air vents to remove dust, wipe screens and remove finger and hand prints and clean your keyboard to get rid of crumbs and other debris.

Day 10 - Give your Internet a Boost
Fast broadband is essential for streaming all those Christmas movies! Check your broadband speed and make sure you’re getting the service you are paying for. Ensure your router is running the latest firmware and that you are running the latest version of your browser.

Day 11 - Clear up your Contacts (and delete old texts)
Go through your list carefully and delete unneeded (or unwanted) contacts. Do the same with your text messages, it’s easy to just let them build up but they use up precious space on your device so delete the ones you no longer need.

Day 12 - Install A Santa Tracker
The big day is nearly here and if you have kids they’re probably getting very excited about Santa making his journey from the North Pole. At File Genie HQ we have a tradition of following Santa’s progress via one of the many tracker apps available- it’s magical!

Hopefully these steps will help you get your devices clean, organised and ready to capture the special moments you have over Christmas.

Wishing you a wonderful Christmas and we look forward to seeing you in the New Year.

So, what can you do if you are trying to keep overheads down, but you need someone you can rely on for all your tech troubles? Get yourself a reliable IT guru! Finding a local IT expert is pretty simple, ask your trusted friends for recommendations and check them out. A freelance tech support is going to be much more cost effective than paying a huge IT company.

Repairs and Refurbs
IT support will be able to help when your tech fails, be that pc’s malfunctioning, smartphone suddenly not working, cracked screens or viruses. Being self-employed means having reliable hardware is essential, so if it breaks or stops working you need to get it sorted as soon as possible.

Get Help Setting up Networks
Having IT support means you can be confident you’ll have a reliable network set up. They will help make sure you have the right equipment for the job and that it is running at its best. They can also offer advice on your internet and WIFI setup, help you check your broadband speed and make sure you’re getting the fastest connection available.

Antivirus Setup
Having antivirus is a must and not just for small businesses. Everyone should have up to date antivirus installed on all devices (including smartphones). Hacking, phishing and viruses are constantly evolving so a comprehensive antivirus is one of the most important things to keep on top of.

Help with Onsite and Offsite backup
Backing up your data is crucial and your trusty IT support will be able to help you set up an external backup and cloud storage to keep your precious information safe and secure.
 
PC and Device Health Check
Finally, having a tech person you can trust and rely on means you can call on them to carry out a regular health check on your PC and other devices. Not just for when things go wrong, they will also be able to help you manage and clean up your files, check for any software updates you might need and give you peace of mind everything is working as it should.
 
Contact us if you need any help with your PC or devices or want to talk about how File Genie can help with your small business IT.