Written by Paul West

Everyone has problems with their computer at some point. Here are just a few of them with suggestions of what can be done to resolve them.

1. Internet Browsing Problems

Typical problems include pop-ups which are browser windows that suddenly appear to spoil your time on the internet. These pop-ups are usually adverts for gambling or adult sites. Another problem is called ‘browser hijacking’ where you type in the web address of one site, only to be re-directed to a completely different site. If you perform a search using Google, Yahoo, MSN, etc, you should expect to see the results of your search displayed in the same search engine. If your search results suddenly show up in anything else, then you have a problem that needs to be fixed.

2. Cannot View Web Pages

Very occasionally this can be caused by problems in something called a TCP/IP stack. Sometimes there will be a temporary problem with your modem (dial up), cable modem (NTL), or ADSL router that is cured by switching the device off, then on again a few minutes later. If this doesn’t work, then you need to call the number at the top of this page. Very rarely will the fault lay with your internet service provider.

3. Your Computer Does Strange Things

If you start to see strange characters on your screen, if your applications start to do strange things, or if your computer seems noticeably slower, then you may have a virus. Viruses can be cleansed using appropriate software, or you can call the number at the top of this page.

4. Cannot Connect More Than One PC or Laptop to the Internet

If you have more than one pc or laptop and you want broadband internet access from each of them, you will need to install a wireless network. You will need to buy either an ADSL or DSL wireless router and possibly wireless network adaptors for the pc’s or laptops. You may be able to perform the installation yourself, but don’t forget to set up the security features. Or once again, you can call the number at the top of this page.

5. Your Computer Takes Ages to Start Up or Shut Down

This is usually caused by programs loading themselves into the Windows start-up routine. When Windows starts, it will execute anything within this routine and this takes time. The computer will not be ready for you to use until this process is complete. Most of these programs do not need to be loaded at this point and can be prevented from doing so. Shut down delays can be caused by software that is still running when the shutdown is attempted. Some Windows services can also cause a slow shut-down.

6. Windows XP Shows Error Messages When it Starts

The error message itself should be a big clue to the actual problem, but sometimes there is no error message. It is sometimes quicker and easier to simply re-install Windows, than it is to find the exact cause of, and remedy for the problem. Sometimes, if an application has not been un-installed properly, it will produce an error message when Windows starts, indicating that an associated file is missing.

7. Cannot get External Devices to Connect With Your Computer

Devices such as digital cameras, electronic keyboards (music), printers, and others, all require software drivers to enable them to communicate with Windows. The most common reason why external devices do not appear to work, is that the device drivers have been incorrectly installed. Another reason could be that the wrong drivers are used for a particular device.

If you are experiencing any of the above problems, please call 07738 712181.

If you have a problem with your pc or have an internet related problem, please call either 07738 712181 or 01234 818616, or send me a message using the 'contact us ' link.