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Troubleshooting computer problems is a pain in the ass. I know how you feel.

In this post, I’ll discuss 5 straightforward steps to troubleshoot most PC laptop and desktop problems, from hardware to software, from Windows OS to Mac Safari.

Step 1. Determine if it’s a hardware or software problem

Usually it’s a silly performance issue – either a very slow laptop, or your monitor flashes, or the internet isn’t working.

Computer performance problems are 80% of the time caused by software – and 80% of the time it’s a Windows operating system computer because they just mess up a ton.

Macs are built cleaner and lighter – with less trojans and viruses. You have fewer concerns and fewer bad guys trying to beat the crap out of it.

Step 2. If it’s a software issue, uninstall the offending software application

How do you find the naughty program? Whatever program loads and causes your computer to crash, or is running when your computer is extremely slow is probably the culprit.

You can also run an Antivirus program or Resource management program to determine which software applications are hogging the most resources or behaving erratically.

Then, uninstall the offending application. Reinstall the latest version, making sure you patch it with any driver updates.

Reboot your laptop or desktop computer – this should resolve it.

Step 3. If it’s a hardware issue, isolate the equipment and get a replacement

Let’s say it’s your disc drive. Your DVD/CD drive isn’t burning DVDs, doesn’t read a CD, or simply keeps making clicking sounds for no good reason.

There are only 2 possible solutions – replace the drive yourself, or find a local computer repair store (unless you’re still under warranty, have a ton of patience, and want to test manufacturer computer support).

Step 4. Cleanse your computer hardware and software

This means both the software and hardware. Use a pressured wind spigot can to clear dust from your keyboard, monitor, mouse, wire ports, and speakers. Keeping small particles out of your hardware parts clean while prolong their useful life.

Then, do a software cleaning. Defragment your hard drive. Install any new updates to your OS and key support pieces like AVG Anti-virus.

In addition, remove applications that you don’t use or “use rarely”. Delete docs and mpegs and music mp3 files that you rarely view. Clean your recycle bin. Use something like CCleaner to fix the registry and update drivers and remove DLL files.

Step 5. Turn your PC off and let it wind down

Don’t reboot your laptop – that’s crucial. Turn it off, unplug the power cord, and let it rest for 12-24 hours. Often hardware is simply exhausted and needs to cool down for a brief period to let key components operate smoothly once again.

That finishes our tour of computer troubleshooting basics!