We’ve all been there—your computer’s acting weird, and you’re wondering, “Do I really need to call someone, or can I fix this myself?” 

The good news? Not every tech hiccup needs a trip to the repair shop. At AS Computer Solutions, we love helping our Onoway neighbours stay up and running, and sometimes, all it takes is a bit of guidance.

So before you bring your system in, here are a few safe, simple fixes you can try at home—no special tools or tech degree required.

⚠️ Before You Get Started

Let’s talk safety first:

• Unplug it: Always shut down your computer and unplug it from the wall before opening anything up.
• Static is sneaky: Touch a metal part of your computer case before working inside to ground yourself—or better yet, use an anti-static wrist strap.
• Take photos: Snap pics of how things look before unplugging or removing parts. It’ll make reassembly way easier.

And remember:💡 If you’re ever unsure, stop and give us a call. We’re here to help!

🐌 Slow Computer? Try a Quick Software Tune-Up

If your computer’s running like it’s stuck in molasses, chances are it’s software—not hardware—causing the slowdown. Try these quick cleanups:

✅ Clean Out Old Programs

• On Windows: Go to Settings > Apps and uninstall anything you don’t use.
• On Mac: Open the Applications folder and drag unused apps to the trash.

✅ Disable Startup Clutter

• Windows: Hit Ctrl + Shift + Esc, go to the Startup tab, and disable programs you don’t need launching at boot.
• macOS: Go to System Settings > General > Login Items and remove unneeded entries.

✅ Clear Temporary Files

Use built-in tools like Disk Cleanup (Windows) or a reputable tool like CCleaner to get rid of browser junk, cache, and temp files.

✅ Run a Malware Scan

Even with built-in protection, a second opinion helps. (Check out our post: Do I Need Antivirus in 2025? for our recommended tools.)

💨 Overheating? Time for a Dust-Off

If your laptop feels like a mini space heater or your desktop fans are howling, dust might be clogging up the airflow.

For Laptops:

• Use compressed air to blow dust out of vents (usually along the sides or bottom).
• If you can see the fan blades, gently hold them still while you blow to avoid over-spinning.

For Desktops:

• Power down and unplug the system.
• Open the side panel and gently blow out dust from:
  • CPU cooler
  • GPU (graphics card)
  • Power supply vents
  • Any case fans or dust filters

Dust bunnies are not your friends. A quick cleaning can do wonders for performance and longevity!

📺 “No Signal” on Monitor? Don’t Panic Yet

If your screen is black but the computer sounds like it’s running, it might be a simple connection issue.

Try This:

• Double-check the cable: Make sure the HDMI, DisplayPort, or VGA cable is secure at both ends.
• Check the right port: If your system has both onboard and graphics card outputs, make sure you’re plugged into the correct one.
• Power cycle both devices: Turn off the monitor and PC, unplug both for 30 seconds, then plug them back in and turn them on.
• Swap it out: Try a different cable or monitor if you have one handy.

Still no luck? It might be a graphics card or motherboard issue—give us a shout.

🖱️ Mouse, Keyboard, or Printer Acting Up?

When peripherals stop responding, the fix is often simpler than you’d think.

✅ Start with the Basics:

• Unplug and replug the device.
• Replace batteries (for wireless gear).
• Restart your computer.

✅ Check Device Drivers (Windows):

• Right-click the Start button > Device Manager.
• Look for yellow ⚠️ icons.
• Right-click the device > Update driver or Uninstall, then restart your system.

✅ Printer Trouble?

Download and reinstall the official drivers from the manufacturer’s website—this fixes more issues than you’d expect.

🌐 Wi-Fi Cutting Out?

Wi-Fi acting wonky? Before blaming your internet provider, try these steps:

✅ Reboot Your Router & Modem

Unplug both, wait 60 seconds, plug the modem in first, then the router. Wait a few minutes for everything to sync back up.

✅ Update Wi-Fi Drivers

Check the manufacturer’s website for the latest drivers for your laptop or wireless adapter.

✅ Forget & Reconnect

On your computer, forget the Wi-Fi network, then reconnect and enter your password again. Simple, but effective.

🧠 When to Call the Pros at A.S. Computer Solutions

Some problems are best left to the experts—like us!

Call us if you’re dealing with:

• 🔵 Blue screens (BSOD) that keep popping up
• ⚡ No power or no boot at all
• 💧 Spills or physical damage
• 💽 Strange clicking from your hard drive (seriously—turn it off right away!)
• 🦠 Stubborn viruses or ransomware
• 🧩 Upgrades you’re nervous about doing yourself

We’ve got the tools, training, and parts to get things running smoothly again—and we’re right here in Onoway when you need us.

👋 Local. Friendly. Here When You Need Us.

At AS Computer Solutions, we love helping people gain confidence with their tech—and we’re always just a phone call or visit away if you hit a roadblock.

🧰 Try the tips above first.☎️ Still stuck? Let us handle the rest.

📞 Call or Visit Us Today:

🌐 www.ascomputersolutions.ca

📍 Onoway, Alberta

📧 [email protected]