Common Computer Errors & How to Fix Them

Computers are amazing—until something goes wrong. Whether it’s a blue screen, slow boot time, or weird pop-ups, errors can be frustrating and confusing.

But the good news? Most common computer errors are easy to fix, even if you’re not a tech expert.

Below are 10 common computer problems and how to fix them like a pro:

🧱 1. Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) – “Your PC ran into a problem…”

🛠️ Cause:

• Faulty drivers
• Overheating
• Hardware failure
• Software conflicts

💡 Fix:

• Restart in Safe Mode
• Update or roll back device drivers
• Run Windows Memory Diagnostic (mdsched.exe)
• Use System Restore to revert recent changes

🐢 2. Computer Running Slow

🛠️ Cause:

• Too many background apps
• Low disk space
• Malware
• Aging hardware

💡 Fix:

• Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc → End unnecessary tasks
• Clear temp files: Run → temp, prefetch, cleanmgr
• Uninstall unused programs
• Upgrade RAM or switch to SSD

❌ 3. Applications Keep Crashing

🛠️ Cause:

• Outdated software
• Corrupted files
• Compatibility issues

💡 Fix:

• Update the app and OS
• Reinstall the application
• Run SFC scan (Windows): sfc /scannow in CMD
• Check Event Viewer for crash logs

🌐 4. No Internet Connection / Network Error

🛠️ Cause:

• Router issues
• DNS errors
• Driver problems

💡 Fix:

• Restart modem/router
• Run Windows Network Troubleshooter
• Flush DNS: ipconfig /flushdns
• Update network adapter driver

🔋 5. Laptop Battery Not Charging

🛠️ Cause:

• Faulty charger
• Battery health degraded
• Power supply issues

💡 Fix:

• Try another charger or outlet
• Uninstall “Battery Drivers” in Device Manager → Reboot
• Calibrate the battery (fully drain & charge)
• If old, consider battery replacement

🔐 6. PC Keeps Restarting Randomly

🛠️ Cause:

• Overheating
• Faulty RAM or power supply
• Malware

💡 Fix:

• Clean fans/vents (overheating)
• Run Windows Memory Diagnostic
• Scan for malware using Defender/Malwarebytes
• Disable automatic restart:
  System Properties → Startup & Recovery → Uncheck auto restart

🎧 7. No Sound / Audio Not Working

🛠️ Cause:

• Disabled audio device
• Driver issue
• Incorrect playback device

💡 Fix:

• Check speaker icon → Playback Devices
• Set correct output device
• Update or reinstall sound drivers
• Run Windows Audio Troubleshooter

🔎 8. Black Screen on Boot (But Fan/Lights On)

🛠️ Cause:

• Display issue
• Boot error
• BIOS misconfiguration

💡 Fix:

• Try another monitor or HDMI cable
• Boot into Safe Mode
• Reset BIOS settings (Remove CMOS battery or press BIOS reset key)

🐛 9. Virus or Malware Infection

🛠️ Symptoms:

• Pop-ups
• Sluggish PC
• Unknown apps installed

💡 Fix:

• Boot into Safe Mode + Networking
• Scan with Malwarebytes or Windows Defender
• Remove suspicious apps
• Use RogueKiller or AdwCleaner for deep cleanup

📝 10. File Not Opening / “Corrupted File” Error

🛠️ Cause:

• Improper save
• Virus or disk errors
• Unsupported file format

💡 Fix:

• Try opening in another program (e.g., Notepad for text files)
• Use CHKDSK: chkdsk /f in CMD
• Restore from backup or use file repair software