Having trouble with your computer? You've come to the right place. Even if you don't know a computer language (or want to), you can solve several common PC problems on your own.

In this article, Professional Computer Services in Walsall offer many ways to do what you need to do in Windows 7 and Windows Vista. Often, there may not be a Help topic for Windows XP, but the process is often the same as in Windows 7 or Windows Vista. The only difference is usually where to find the link in Control Panel. Most often, it’s just a matter of slightly different wording in the heading or the text describing the task. Don’t worry. If you search in Control Panel, you’ll usually find the link you need.

F1 is magic: Get help on your PC

If you can’t figure out how to complete a particular task in your software program—and you’re using a PC—the most important shortcut to know is the F1 key. Just push it while the program—Word, Excel, or whichever program you’re using—is open and active, wait a moment, and the Help window specific to your active program will appear. The F1 key works with almost all Microsoft products, so it’s a helpful starting point for a wide variety of problems.

The basics

If you’re encountering a different kind of obstacle – your new device won’t appear on your desktop, an application you added won’t run, you see an error message, or your computer is refusing to start up – here are a few preliminary steps:

1. Before adding any major hardware or software to your system, make sure you've recently backed up your windows 7-based PC or your windows vista-based PC as a safeguard. By using the automatic backup functions, you can schedule regular upkeep for maximum convenience.

2. Many issues can be resolved by simply checking to be sure that all of your plugs are connected properly. After you are sure of that, try restarting (“rebooting”) your system. Turn your computer off, and then back on a few seconds later. If the problem continues, follow the steps below.

3. Write down the error message and what happens then do a internet search on it .Take a second to print any instructions as well, and keep them handy as you walk through the troubleshooting process.

4. Never down load anything from the internet which states it will repair your problem unless it’s from a trusted site. Otherwise you could end up with more problems than when you started.

5. Take your time following the instructions don’t be tempted to click on something because your patience is running out.

6. Use the built-in system restore process and go back to a date before the error happened most software errors are due to a device being installed and can be repaired in this way.

7. Don’t panic unless you hear a clicking noise on start up your data is safe on the hard drive and it is possible to retrieve it later.

8. Unplug all power cables and leave 5 minutes there is a failsafe which won’t restart until system is cold.

For help and advice, call Professional Computer Services on 01922 438741.

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