Computers have revolutionized our lives. We are able to accomplish many more tasks more quickly than ever before. We are also able to communicate far quicker than 20 years ago thanks to the Internet, Email, Skype, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc. However, computing can also be extremely frustrating, especially when things go wrong, which seems to happen more often than we would like. What can you do to solve your computing problems once they occur?

The first step to take is to try and repeat the error. It can be both embarrassing and costly to call out an IT Consultant and the problem has disappeared. Sometimes errors are “human error” problems caused when you do something without realizing it. Then when you actually concentrate on what you are doing the “error” no longer occurs.

Switch off your computer, leave it for about 5 minutes then turn on again. It is amazing how many problems are solved by this simple procedure.

If the problem persists, make sure you know what you did to cause the problem. Try to write down as much as possible of what you did, step-by-step. It is of no use calling someone out to help you and then you cannot make the problem happen again.

Make sure that there are no obvious solutions – ever heard the urban legend about a call centre operator who runs through a whole battery of questions trying to solve the problem only to discover after 10 minutes that there is a power failure which is why the computer doesn’t work! Talk about frustration. So, make sure all plugs are connected and switched on where necessary.

When you contact an IT Consultant with your problem, try to describe the problem as clearly and accurately as possible. Many errors can be solved telephonically if the Consultant has an accurate picture of what is wrong. This can save you time and money, as well as plenty frustration and embarrassment.

Make sure that you have a recent backup of all important data. Also make sure that you have copies of all programs, especially your Operating System disk, Recovery disk, Motherboard Driver disk and any other program installed on your computer.

Finally, once the problem has been solved, make sure that you know what, if anything, you could have done to prevent the problem occurring in the first place. Don’t get caught again by problems that can easily be avoided.

Please contact us on 083 693 4923 or info@beycom.co.za for further advice or assistance with your IT related problem.