
By AS Computer Solutions – Trusted Tech Support for Onoway and Beyond
Is your computer acting up? Before you haul it into a repair shop, try these 10 simple at-home fixes. At AS Computer Solutions (ASCS), we help Albertans save money with practical solutions—these tips can get you back up and running without spending a dime.
🔧 1. Restart the Computer
It sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how often this works. A simple reboot can:
- Clear temporary memory (RAM)
- Resolve software glitches
- Finish pending Windows updates
🔌 2. Check All Cables and Power
Loose power cords or unseated monitor cables cause more panic than they should. Make sure:
- Your power bar is on
- HDMI/DisplayPort cables are fully plugged in
- The power supply switch (back of desktop) is set to “I” (on)
🖱️ 3. Peripherals Not Working? Try Another USB Port
If your keyboard, mouse, or external drive isn’t detected:
- Try unplugging and switching USB ports
- Use a port directly on the motherboard (rear I/O) instead of front panel
- Avoid USB hubs during troubleshooting
🧼 4. Clean Out the Dust
Overheating = instability. Shut down your system and:
- Use compressed air to clean fans, vents, and heatsinks
- Avoid vacuuming—static discharge can harm components
- If you’re comfortable, remove the side panel to clean inside gently
🧪 5. Run a Malware/Virus Scan
Strange pop-ups? Slowdowns? Use a trusted scanner like:
- Malwarebytes (free version)
- Windows Defender (built-in to Windows 10/11)
Update definitions first, then run a full scan.
🧠 6. Task Manager: Check for Resource Hogs
Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc and check:
- What’s using the most CPU or memory?
- If a browser tab or random process is hogging resources, end it
- Google unknown process names to ensure they’re safe
💾 7. Free Up Storage Space
Low disk space can bring Windows to a crawl. Try:
- Win + R, then type cleanmgr
- Delete temp files and system cache
- Uninstall programs you no longer use
💡 8. Check for Windows Updates
Outdated drivers or OS files can cause issues:
- Go to Settings > Windows Update
- Install all available updates
- Reboot when prompted
🧰 9. Use Windows’ Built-In Troubleshooters
Go to:Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other Troubleshooters
From here you can scan for:
- Internet problems
- Audio issues
- Keyboard/mouse input bugs
- Blue screen causes
💣 10. System Restore (if all else fails)
If things just broke after an update or install:
- Type “System Restore” in Start Menu
- Select a restore point before the problem started
- Let Windows roll back changes (your files stay safe)
🛠️ Still Stuck? ASCS Has Your Back
If these tips didn’t help—or if you’re uncomfortable opening your PC—AS Computer Solutions is just a message away. We offer:
- Affordable diagnostics
- On-site or remote repairs
- Full system cleanups
- Custom upgrades and part sourcing
📞 Call us at (780) 243-5648🌐 Visit ASComputerSolutions.ca📍 Serving Onoway, Alberta, and surrounding areas
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