Fix a Problem With Your Computer
By Tim Fisher, About.com Guide to PC Support
Is your computer locking up? Are you getting a weird error message that you can't figure out? Are you having trouble even starting your computer? No matter what kind of problem you're having, big or small, you've come to the right place in your search to find the solution!
It doesn't matter if you're a seasoned computer professional, a fix-it novice, or somewhere in between - these resources will help you get your computer back up and running in no time.
Common Error Messages
Anyone who regularly uses a computer knows all about error messages. Those of you who are also Windows users probably see more than your fair share of them. As a computer service professional, I see more error messages than anyone should in a lifetime!
Listed below are some of the more common error messages that my readers and clients see on their computers.
- 404: Not Found
- 500: Internal Server Error
- 403: Forbidden
- Hal.dll is Missing or Corrupt
- Unknown Hard Error C:\Winnt\System32\Ntdll.dll
- NTLDR is Missing
- D3dx9_36.dll Not Found
- Res://ieframe.dll/dnserror.htm#
- LAME_ENC.DLL Was Not Found
- [PROGRAM NAME] has caused an error in Kernel32.dll
Working Inside Your Computer
If you've never done it, opening up your computer to service or replace something inside can seem overwhelming. The thought alone sends many people speeding toward the expensive repair shop.
Working inside your computer is much easier than you may believe, especially when you have a little help. These resources will help you get in and out of your computer like an expert!
- How to Open a Standard PC Case
- A Visual Tour Inside Your Computer
- Computer Repair Safety Tips
- What is a Motherboard?
- What is a Hard Drive?
Reinstalling Windows
As unfortunate as it may be, sometimes the only solution to some Windows based PC problems involves a complete reinstallation of the operating system itself. There are few different ways to reinstall Windows and the right choice for you depends on how serious your problem is.
Below are step-by-step guides to each kind of installation, complete with images and detailed instructions. These resources make a traditionally complicated procedure easy enough for anyone to take on!
