Before You Begin

The steps provided here range from often-overlooked to more complicated solutions that require you to open your computer's case and work with hardware components or dive deeper into the Windows' core. Remember that your goal here is to correct a problem, not create a new one. If performing a certain action makes you uncomfortable, call in someone with more expertise. And if you do decide proceed with any of our Advanced Steps, please keep the following considerations in mind:

   * Prior to opening your computer's case,

1. Check to see if the PC warranty is still good. If so, send it back to the manufacturer for repair, as digging around inside the case can void the warranty.

2. You may also try calling your PC's manufacturer for tech support, especially if you've already paid for it. Often, tech support can provide quick fixes or will replace faulty components that are still under warranty.

3. Many manufacturers offer online chat, email support, and other options in addition to phone support.

   * Before making any hardware adjustments,

1. Observe all safety measures.

2. Purchase an anti static wrist strap and mat. While static electricity might sound like small, it can severely damage your computer's internal components.

3. Make sure that you and your PC are both properly grounded, so keep the computer plugged into the wall but the power switch turned off when working with its internal components.

4. Also, remember to hold on to the metal part of the computer's case when handling any electrical parts.

   * Although all computers contain most of the same core internal components (hard drive, processor, RAM, graphics card, etc.), the locations of those components can vary from machine to machine.

IMPORTANT:  Before you reseat, remove, or replace any internal components, arm yourself with a working knowledge of computer components, what they do, and how they interact with one another.