Common Computer Support Questions and Answers

For the last 13 years, Spectra Networks has made it our business to provide technology services for small-to-medium businesses throughout Boston and the North Shore. One of the services that we are happy to provide our clients is one-on-one computer support anytime, day or night. Knowing how difficult technology can be at times, we are proud of our ability to offer our clients a single point of contact IT expert who can answer questions and provide advice as needed. Believe me, we have encountered all sorts of questions and we answer all of them without the “tech-speak” that many outside of our field get thrown off by. Here are a few of the most common computer support questions, problems and solutions. Problem - Windows freezing or stopping Solution Checklist -

Lock ups are often caused by software. Be sure you have the most recent updates to software to prevent these freezes from happening.
Close any unnecessary windows that are open and running on your computer. Computers run slower and can freeze if programs are pulling on too many resources.
If a computer is overheating or the fan has malfunctioned, a computer can, and does, freeze. Verify that the computer or laptop has ventilation, that the fan is operating, and that the CPU is not running too hot.
Lock ups can also be caused by outdated or corrupted drives. Make sure no errors exist in the Windows Device Manager and verify that no "Other Devices" are listed.

Problem - Malfunctioning Scanner Solution Checklist -

Confirm that all cables are connected properly by following them from energy source to input location.
Confirm that the scanner is indeed getting power. Potential troubleshooting on this includes unplugging from a power strip and plugging in directly to the wall as well as restarting the scanner.

Problem - Wi-Fi Connection not working Solution Checklist -

Confirm that the Wi-Fi is turned on if using a laptop.
Confirm that the router indicator light is on.
Verify that the wireless connection is enabled which can be done by clicking the Start button, typing network connection in the search text box, and then clicking on the View network connections option.
Check that the internet service provider is working. Confirm this by logging in to another device such as a tablet, smartphone or laptop.
Try resetting the modem. To do this disconnect the power from the back of the modem and router. Once disconnected, wait 10-15 seconds and then reconnect the power.
Temporarily disable firewalls to confirm that this is not the problem.

Problem - Keyboard not working Solution Checklist -

Check the connections running from the keyboard to the computer. Try a different port if that is possible or plug into another computer to determine if it is the keyboard or computer.
Check the keyboard in device managers.
Check that the drivers are updated.
Confirm if it is certain keys not working or the entire keyboard.

While this only scratches the surfaces of potential computer support issues, check back with us periodically as we discuss more common IT problems and how to solve them. Remember, all of Spectra Networks technicians and engineers are either Microsoft, Apple, and/or CompTIA certified to ensure the highest standard of customer service and business computer support. Call Spectra Networks at at 978.219.9752, or visit our website at Spectra Networks.]]>