A laptop is the backbone of an efficient work-from-home system. It allows you to connect to the internet, complete assignments online, send emails, and hold virtual meetings. And, to be able to do these things, your laptop needs to be robust and reliable. 

At some point your laptop will display certain warning signs. While there are some issues that will require professional repairs or a full laptop replacement, other problems can be fixed by just running a few diagnostics yourself. Below, we break down the most common laptop issues and what you can do to fix them. 

The problem: the laptop starts but the screen remains black

The solution: First make sure that the laptop is receiving enough power supply by checking both ends of the power adapter. If the cable is firmly connected, a hard reset may do the trick. To perform a power restart, unplug the charger and remove the battery. Press and hold the power button for up to sixty seconds. Then, insert the battery and charger, and press the power button to reboot. If you’re presented with a startup menu, navigate to ‘Start Windows Normally’ using the arrow keys and select this option by pressing enter. 

The problem: the laptop suddenly freezes

The solution: A range of issues can cause your display to whiten and show a “Not Responding” notification. If you don’t have the patience to wait it out, press the Ctrl+Shift+Esc keys simultaneously to bring up the Windows Task Manager. It shows you which processes are consuming the highest CPU resources and RAM. Make a note of the programmes that have gone haywire, then uninstall or update them after restarting your laptop. You could also look to free up some space on your hard drive by deleting unused applications.

The problem: The laptop reboots itself over and over again

The solution: A corrupted driver, or malware infection is a likely cause of a laptop that restarts by itself. An anti-virus scan is something that you need to perform regularly so that your system works properly. If you have a built-in antivirus programme, let it run a complete check on your internal and external drives. You can also install additional anti-virus programmes for an extra layer of security. When the scan is complete, follow the on-screen instructions to remove harmful files or unwanted applications, then reboot your laptop.

The problem: The laptop fails to connect to your Wi-Fi network

The solution: If your Wi-Fi is working fine and your laptop cannot connect to it, check that you don’t have airplane mode activated and that the Wi-Fi button is turned on. For some laptops, simply having the Wi-Fi button switched on will automatically prevent airplane mode. Updating the drivers of your network adapter may also solve your connectivity issue. On your desktop, just right click on ‘My Computer’ or ‘My PC’ and select ‘Manage’. Click on ‘Device Manager,’ go to ‘Network Adapters’ to find your wireless adapter. Right click on it to select ‘Enable’ or ‘Install’. Then, choose ‘Scan for hardware changes’ and your drivers will be updated.

The problem: Microsoft Office 365 won’t install

The solution: If you’re unable to load Office 365 onto your laptop, it’s likely that your computer and the software are not compatible with each other. There are minimum system requirements to install these applications on your laptop, which can be viewed here. If your laptop does not have these specifications, these apps won’t run.

The problem: The laptop gets really hot

The solution: A lack of airflow will push up the temperatures in the processor, causing your computer to work harder. An overheating laptop can slow down performance and lead to frequent shutdowns. Touch the underpart of your laptop and if your fingers burn, you’ll know that your laptop is overheating. You can also check that your laptop is getting enough ventilation by placing your hand close to the fan vents. If you don’t feel hot air blowing out, the ducts might be blocked. Unplug and shut down the laptop, then open up the air vents to clean out dust and debris. To ensure your laptop stays cool and increase airflow, never place it on top of fabrics like blankets. Always keep it on a hard surface, preferably a laptop cooling pad. 

To maintain productivity levels at home, you’ll need a laptop that won’t let you down. Of course, issues will pop up sooner or later, sometimes at the most inconvenient times. Knowing how to troubleshoot and fix the most common hiccups yourself may help you bring your laptop back to its original condition. 

However, if you feel that it’s time to upgrade, Nashua now offers you three remote working packages, featuring laptops with the latest computing technology as well as supporting software and accessories. Contact us via our Remote Working Packages page for more information on our ICT solutions.