A single hour of IT downtime costs the average business around $100,000. That might seem a little high if the issue is someone can’t get the printer going, but even smaller IT issues can run up enormous bills. This is especially true if they happen over and over again, or if they require experts to fix them.
The good news is that many of the most common IT problems can be fixed without expert help. Knowing how to fix these 10 IT issues will help you keep your team and your budget on track.
1. Startup Failure
Some of the most common IT problems involve the computer failing to startup. This can happen for a few different reasons.
One of the most common reasons is that the computer is unplugged. There’s a reason this is one of the first questions tech support asks, even if it seems obvious.
If the computer is plugged in, sometimes unplugging it and plugging it in again will solve the issue. If not, you may want to try another outlet or another cord. Either could cause an issue with the flow of electricity.
Next, make sure the monitor or display is functional. If that seems to be working, then you may have another issue and a call to tech support may be in order.
2. Blank Screens
Sometimes, your computer will boot, but you won’t be able to see anything. This usually indicates an issue with the display.
Fixing this issue is sometimes as simple as making sure the monitor is plugged in. You can try connecting the machine to another external display and see if that fixes the issue.
Computers, including laptops, sometimes get stuck in sleep mode. Hold down the power button to shut the machine down. Then reboot it.
If a built-in screen still isn’t working, there may be an issue with the internal connections. You’ll want to have a professional look at this issue.
3. Slow Computers
Perhaps the most common IT issue is the “slow computer.” Computers may lag for any number of reasons, so it can be a bit difficult to pinpoint why the machine is slow. The good news is that there as many potential fixes as there are reasons for your machine to get bogged down.
You may want to see if you have a program gobbling up all your memory. To check on this, you can launch Task Manager on Windows or Force Quit on Mac. These can tell you if there are programs running in the background or unresponsive programs that could be slowing you down.
Cleaning up the computer may also help. Unwanted or unused files can be deleted or offloaded to an external drive. This then frees up space for the computer to use.
You may even want to install security measures such as anti-virus and anti-spyware software. These programs can help detect programs that could affect your computer’s performance.
4. Noisy Computers
Some of the top issues in IT support and troubleshooting focus on computers that are making some funny noises.
In some cases, this could be a sign of a problem with the fan. The computer may be in danger of overheating.
More often, a “noisy computer” indicates hard drive failure is imminent. Hard drives are normally next to silent, although they do occasionally click. If you hear grinding, whirring, or other loud sounds, it’s time to back up your computer.
Traditional hard drives spin, so they do wear down over time. If your hard drive fails and you haven’t made a backup, you’ll need to check in with the experts to see if they can help. You can also consult with them to make sure the issue is the hard drive and to get help replacing it.
5. Common IT Problems with Internet
The Internet is another very common source of IT issues for both the everyday computer user and the office worker. One of the more common complaints is slow or lagging Internet connections.
If you’re using a WiFi connection, then it could be because you’re too far from the router. You can try moving closer.
If you’re already pretty close to the router or you’re hardwired, then it could be network traffic slowing you down.
Clearing cookies and the temporary Internet file cache can also help speed up the Internet. Make sure you’re using the most up-to-date version of your preferred browser as well.
You may also want to check for potential security issues that could be slowing you down.
6. Fan Failures and Overheating
Fan failures often come in under the “noisy computer” issue. If the hard drive isn’t making the noise, then it’s likely the fan.
Fans are easy to replace. They’re also important. Without them, computers may overheat and suffer damage to internal components.
Keep the fan clear of dust and other debris by cleaning it regularly. This can extend the life of the fan and your computer too.
7. The Printer Won’t Print
The printer going down may not seem like a big deal, but it can cause lost productivity. It also causes plenty of frustration.
First, check to make sure the printer is plugged in. Then check to make sure it has paper and toner. Next, check for any error lights or messages.
If all seems like a go, you can try rebooting the printer. If that still doesn’t help, then it’s time to check the machine you’re trying to print from. Sometimes, an update or a re-installation of printer drivers is all that’s needed.
8. Lack of Security
IT problems and solutions often go hand-in-hand with security. A lack of security can leave your computer exposed to all sorts of risks, such as malware and ransomware.
Your computer might run slowly or you might encounter other problems, such as the computer not booting.
Anyone who uses a computer should have a security plan in place. Business leaders should make sure they have security policies and that their team members are familiar with them. Better security can limit other IT issues and downtime.
9. Outdated Technology
Another very common issue is outdated technology, especially in the workplace. Outdated technology costs businesses much more than upgrading would.
How? First, it can lower your productivity. Lagging machines, unstable software, and more mean your team spends more time on any given task.
According to the experts at Ascendant Technologies, it also increases your security risks. If your machine is lagging or you keep getting viruses, then it might be time to upgrade.
10. No Backups and No Backup Plan
Common technology problems can sometimes lead to a loss of data. You may even lose your entire hard drive.
That’s why it’s so important to keep regular backups of your machine. If you’re running a business, you should most certainly have a policy about backups as well.
If all else fails, a backup can help you restore your machine. It may also help you recover files or data in the event you need to replace a machine.
The Tech Tips You Need
These common IT problems can cause plenty of headaches for employees and employers alike. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to fixing most of them when they crop up.
Looking for more great tech tips? Check out our archives! We have plenty of informative articles, with all the latest tips and tricks.