At Reis Informatica, one of our techs is always available to help you work out your computer issues, but there are a few steps you should take before ringing for help.
Below we will cover 9 things to do before you call tech support so you can troubleshoot your computer troubles right away.
1. Save Your Work
Make sure you save all of the documents you’re working on before trying to troubleshoot your issue. Clicking “save” upfront could prevent tons of trouble in the future
If it’s possible, save your documents to the cloud or an external hard drive. You don’t want to lose anything in the event that your computer is damaged.
2. Search for Clues
There are a few signs that could lead you to the source of your computer issues. Red or blinking lights are often clues to let you know that something is wrong.
Clues may also appear in the form of notification bars or pop-up windows. It is easy to ignore important notifications and alerts.
Don’t click anything that appears suspicious.
3. Restart Your Program
Whether you’re working in an app or a web browser, sometimes programs just need to either be refreshed or restarted.
You can simply close out of the program. If that doesn’t work, click “ctrl + alt + delete” on windows computer and use the Task Manager to close out of the open program. On a Mac press these three keys together: Option (or Alt), Command, Esc (Escape).
Open it back up and see how it works.
4. Reboot
Power down your computer, give it a few moments, then start it back up. It may need time to rest.
Make sure that you save all of your work and bookmark any pages you’re using so that nothing is lost when you reboot.
5. Check the Vitals
It may sound weird, but many computer issues have very simple causes. Have you checked to make sure everything is properly plugged in completely? Is there a loose cable? Are the lights on?
These small things can make the difference between a working and a malfunctioning computer.
6. Delete Your History
Something in your browsing or download history may be the root of the problem. Resolve these issues by deleting your history and temporary files.
If this does not work, navigate to your computer’s “Downloads” folder and delete anything that you don’t need. If the problem still exists, try deleting other downloads.
You must be very careful with what you download and where you download it from. Many newer computers have filters that protect you from issues that come with dangerous downloads.
7. Refer to Google
You can always do a Google search of your issue. Often, you will come across forums specific to the tools you are using where other users present solutions to common problems.
If you have trouble with a specific site or program, check out the FAQ page. Usually, the company’s website will have its own knowledge base to help you solve the issue without having to contact tech support.
8. Run an Antivirus Software
Your computer issues may be a little more complicated than anticipated, but don’t worry too much yet.
Run antivirus software to see if any sort of virus or malware has infected your computer. Newer computers should have built-in antivirus software.
9. Store Your Passwords
A third of the calls that tech support lines receive are password related!
Avoid calling tech support by storing your passwords somewhere safe. A password manager like Keeper or Lastpass are the safest option.
Make your passwords something that you will remember but not something that is so easy that it will make you susceptible to cybersecurity threats.
When Should I Call Tech?
If you have tried all the steps above and your computer is still giving you a hard time it's time to reach out to Reis Tech Support.
Send in your ticket and our team will get back to you as soon as they are available.
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