As an IT support company, Town & Country have helped fix thousands of different PC and tech problems. Here are 3 of the most common IT problems we see people struggle with, why they happen, and how you can fix them!
1. Slow Performance
Nothing tests your patience like a slow PC. If your computer takes an age to boot up and seems to be running in slow motion when it does, there’s probably an underlying problem you need to look at. Here are the most common culprits:
- RAM: Having too many programs open can slow your computer to a crawl. Reduce your RAM usage by only running the programs you need.
- Hard drive: Due to the time it takes to process them, too many files stored in your hard drive will make your computer run more slowly. Delete any files that you don’t need, especially large files like photos and videos.
- Malware: Malware is always a threat. A virus that has infected your PC will use up resources, corrupt data, or even try to take over your system, slowing it down considerably. Run antivirus software to clear it. If the malware is especially resilient, you may need to get it looked at by a professional.
- Age: Unfortunately, even the most high-end system will slow down after enough use. Sometimes the only solution is to replace your old computer outright.
If your computer isn’t old enough to be replaced but you’ve had no luck with the steps above, it may be time to get it looked at by an expert. Town & Country will diagnose and fix whatever performance problems your computer is having, getting it running smoothly in no time.
2. Overheating
Is your computer starting to feel like a furnace? An overheating computer can cause your device to shut down without warning, or even fry its internal components. Overheating is usually caused by:
- Dust: An accumulation of dust will hamper airflow inside the chassis, raising the temperature of your device. Open the case and clean out the dust with compressed air and a lint-free cloth. Always take proper safety precautions before opening a computer: disconnect it from the power, don’t touch the motherboard with your bare hands, and make sure to ground yourself to avoid electric shocks.
- Crowding: If your fans are blocked, they won’t be able to cool your machine as effectively. Make sure your computer has enough space away from objects in the room, especially anything that radiates heat.
- Sunlight: Unsurprisingly, being left in direct sunlight will eventually cause your PC to overheat. This risk is biggest with laptops, so make sure to sit in the shade if you’re working outside.
If you’re not confident opening up your computer, Town & Country are happy to help. We will deeply clean your PC and make sure it’s free from dust and grime, restoring airflow to keep it running cool.
3. Slow or Unreliable Internet
Nearly every business depends on the internet in some way, so a slow or spotty connection can be a serious disruption. To
- Router: If your router is overloaded, your internet connection will suffer. Rebooting your router will clean out the device's short-term memory to keep it running more smoothly. To reboot your router, switch off the power at the outlet and wait thirty seconds before turning it back on. Give it a few minutes to get back up to speed, then check to see if your connection has improved.
- Distance: Too much distance between your computer and your router will weaken your internet connection. To fix this, move your computer closer to the router or install more WiFi stations around your office. Switching to an ethernet cable will also help speed things up.
The internet is incredibly complex, so it can be hard to tell exactly what’s wrong. If you still can’t get a strong connection after trying the steps above, get in touch with Town & Country. We will visit your premises to analyse your system, diagnosing the problem and taking the steps needed to make your internet run quickly and reliably once again.
For more information about solving PC problems, including those not mentioned above, read through our expert troubleshooting guides.
Struggling With Your PC? Call In the Experts
Town & Country are here to help you with whatever issue your computer is having. Over the 17 years we’ve been in business, we’ve dealt with thousands of different computer problems for businesses across Dorset, Hampshire, and Wiltshire. We’ll use our resources and expertise to get your PC running as it should in no time, all at an impressively low cost.
Get a quote online or call us on 01202 514444!
