Clear answers for common tech problems.
Start with what you see. These guides explain safe first steps and when another kind of help may be needed.
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Browse all 18 guides by topic below.
18 guides across 6 topics
Safety
- A pop-up says to call Microsoft or Apple. What should you do?Safe first steps when a computer warning tells you to call support, pay money, install an app, or allow remote access.
- What safe remote computer help should look likeLearn how screen sharing should begin, what you control, what to close first, and which remote-support warning signs to avoid.
- A scammer remotely accessed your computer. What should you do now?Gave a scammer remote access to your computer? Follow safe first steps for the device, passwords, payments, accounts, and official reports.
Printers
- Why does my printer say offline?A plain-language checklist for an offline printer, including power, Wi-Fi, the print queue, and when the problem may be mechanical.
- How do you set up a new printer on Wi-Fi?A plain-language checklist for setting up a new printer, connecting it to Wi-Fi, adding computers and phones, and printing a test page.
- Why did my printer stop working after a router or Wi-Fi change?How to reconnect a printer after a new router, internet provider, Wi-Fi name, or password, and what to check before reinstalling software.
Wi-Fi
- Why does Wi-Fi work in one room but not another?Wi-Fi does not reach one room? Compare one device near the router and in the weak area, then check distance, walls, placement, interference, and equipment.
- Is the internet down, or is it a Wi-Fi problem?Learn how to tell whether one device, your Wi-Fi equipment, or your internet provider may be causing a connection problem at home.
Computers
- Should you repair or replace an older computer?A practical way to weigh computer condition, security updates, parts, performance, files, and the work you need it to do.
- Why is my computer so slow?A plain-language checklist for a slow Windows PC or Mac, including startup apps, storage, updates, browser problems, and warning signs.
- What should you do when a computer will not turn on?Safe first checks for a Windows PC or Mac that will not power on, shows a blank screen, or stops before the normal desktop appears.
- Windows 10 support ended. What should you do now?A calm guide to checking your Windows version, backing up files, testing Windows 11 compatibility, and deciding whether to upgrade, assess, or replace a PC.
- Why is your laptop battery not charging?Safe first checks when a Windows or Mac laptop will not charge, plus signs that a battery, charger, port, or specialist needs attention.
- Why does my computer keep freezing or restarting?What to note when a Windows PC or Mac freezes, crashes, or restarts unexpectedly, plus safe first steps and signs that need a careful check.
Files and backups
- What to do before moving files to a new computerA careful checklist for a new computer, including backups, accounts, photos, documents, programs, accessories, and the old device.
- How to protect important photos and files with a backupA plain-language guide to choosing important files, using cloud or external-drive backups, and checking that copies can be restored.
Accounts
- What to do when email will not sign inSafe steps for an email sign-in problem, including account recovery, saved passwords, security codes, app settings, and provider limits.
- What should you do if your email account may be hacked?Safe first steps for unfamiliar email activity, unexpected sign-in alerts, changed recovery details, or messages sent without your permission.
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