CIW - Troubleshooting Hardware and Software {LESSON}

Troubleshooting Hardware and Software

As you think about using hardware and software associated with computers, you must acknowledge there are problems that may arise.

• What if your screen goes blank?
• What if you accidentally close out an application you were using?
• You can’t hear any sound from speakers?

Just know there is always a chance that you can encounter a problem with your devices. But whenever you have a problem, DO NOT PANIC! There is always a way to solve the problem. In this lesson, you will learn strategies to troubleshoot common problems that may arise with your computer.

General Tips to Keep in Mind

There are many things that could cause a problem with your computer. Troubleshooting is the answer to that problem. Troubleshooting is a  step-by-step approach to finding the root cause of an issue and deciding the best way to fix the problem. Troubleshooting will always be a process of trial and error. There are several approaches you can use to find a solution. Troubleshooting is the process of figuring out how to solve a computer problem. Even with the most updated software and hardware, occasionally computers can malfunction. In order to solve a problem, you must figure out which part of the system is malfunctioning. You will need to check each component of the computer unless it is obvious where the problem is coming from. Isolating the problem will help you solve the problem quickly.

Basic Troubleshooting Steps Activity

So let’s start with some recommended steps below. Click each number to reveal the Basic Troubleshooting Steps.

Now that you have taken a look at the basic troubleshooting steps, let’s take a look at a common problem and a possible solution.

For example, take the common issue of your printer not working properly. How could you fix that problem?

• Check if the printer is turned on. If not, turn it on and try again.
• Check if the printer has paper. If not, put paper in the paper tray and try printing again. 
• Check if the printer has a paper jam. If so, remove the paper, close the printer, and try printing again.
• Ensure that all printer cables are properly connected.
• Turn off the printer and turn it on again.
• Check to see if a new printer driver is needed. Do this by going to the manufacturer’s website to search for your printer model and checking for any updated driver.
• Seek assistance from your system administrator before installing any drivers.

As you begin to look into the problems with your computer, the process of elimination may be useful. This means you'll make a list of things that could be causing the problem and then test them out one by one to eliminate them. Once you've identified the source of your computer issue, it will be easier to find a solution.

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