Computer Not Working?

There might be a loose cord connecting the screen, or a simple power problem. There might also be something more serious — a failing hard drive, a corrupted operating system, or a hardware component that’s finally given out after years of service.

The trick is telling the difference before spending money, which is why I always diagnose in person rather than guess over the phone.

Common reasons a computer stops working

• No power at all — screen stays completely black or dark
• Turns on but never gets past a logo or loading screen
• Freezes randomly during normal use
• Blue, black, or gray screen with an error message
• Keyboard, mouse, or trackpad stops responding
• Strange noises — clicking, grinding, or a loud continuous fan

How Larry approaches a dead or frozen computer

1. Rule out the simple stuff first Loose cables, a dead outlet, or a power adapter that's failed account for more "broken" computers than people expect.
2. Test the power supply and battery On laptops especially, a failing battery or charger can look exactly like a bigger problem.
3. Check for hardware failure I test the hard drive, memory, and other core components to find out what actually failed.
4. Attempt data recovery first If the drive is failing, getting your files off safely comes before anything else.
5. Repair, replace, or advise honestly Sometimes it's a five-minute fix. Sometimes the machine has reached the end of its useful life — I'll tell you which, and why.

You won't get a repair you didn't need. If the honest answer is "replace it," I'll say so, and help you set up the new one with everything transferred over.

Looking for computer not working? near you? Larry personally provides computer not working? throughout New Jersey and New York, including Springfield, Livingston, Millburn, Montclair, and Summit in New Jersey, and Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens in New York. See all cities we serve →

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