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DIY Computer & Laptop Repair Guide

​​Welcome to Indy Laptop's DIY computer repair guide!

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Before bringing your device in for professional service, try these troubleshooting steps for common issues. If these don't resolve your problem, our expert technicians at IndyLaptops.com are ready to help.

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Common Computer Problems

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1. Computer Won't Turn On?

Possible causes: Power supply issues, loose connections, hardware failure

DIY Solutions:

  • Check that your power cable is firmly connected to both the computer and the wall outlet

  • Try a different power outlet

  • Check that all internal cables are securely connected (desktop computers)

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2. Computer Runs Slowly?

Possible causes: Too many startup programs, malware infection, full hard drive, outdated hardware

DIY Solutions:

  • Restart your computer

  • Uninstall unused programs

  • Clean up your hard drive (delete temporary files and empty recycle bin)

  • Run a malware scan

  • Disable unnecessary startup programs:

    • Windows: Task Manager > Startup tab

    • Mac: System Preferences > Users & Groups > Login Items

  • Consider upgrading your RAM or switching to an SSD if your hardware is older​

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3. Overheating Issues?

Possible causes: Dust buildup, poor ventilation, failing cooling components

DIY Solutions:

  • Ensure your computer has proper ventilation (don't use laptops on soft surfaces like beds)

  • Clean dust from vents using compressed air (spray in short bursts)

  • For desktops: open the case and carefully clean dust from internal components

  • Use a cooling pad for laptops

  • Check that all cooling fans are working

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4. Blue Screen of Death (Windows) or Kernel Panic (Mac)?

Possible causes: Driver issues, hardware problems, malware, operating system corruption

DIY Solutions:

  • Note any error codes that appear

  • Restart your computer in Safe Mode

  • Update or reinstall device drivers

  • Run system file checker:

    • Windows: Open Command Prompt as administrator and type "sfc /scannow"

    • Mac: Use Disk Utility to verify or repair disk

  • Restore system to an earlier restore point (Windows)

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5. Internet Connection Problems?

Possible causes: Router issues, ISP outage, network adapter problems, software conflicts

DIY Solutions:

  • Restart your router and modem (unplug for 30 seconds)

  • Check other devices to see if they can connect

  • Try using an ethernet cable instead of Wi-Fi

  • Reset network settings:

    • Windows: Settings > Network & Internet > Status > Network reset

    • Mac: System Preferences > Network > Advanced > TCP/IP > "Renew DHCP Lease"

  • Update network adapter drivers

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Laptop-Specific Issues

1. Battery Won't Hold Charge

Possible causes: Aging battery, charging port issues, software problems

DIY Solutions:

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