DIY PC Repair Guides
Learn how to fix common issues yourself
Before You Begin
These guides are for common, simple repairs. If you're unsure or uncomfortable with any step, stop and contact a professional. We're not responsible for any damage that occurs while following these guides.
Always: Back up important data first • Work in a static-free environment • Disconnect power before opening hardware • Follow safety warnings carefully
Speed up your PC by cleaning up unnecessary files and optimising startup programmes.
Tools/Software Needed
- Built-in Windows tools - no downloads required
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Press Windows + R and type "temp" then press Enter. Delete all files in the folder.
- 2
Press Windows + R and type "%temp%" then press Enter. Delete all files.
- 3
Press Windows + R and type "prefetch" then press Enter. Delete all files.
- 4
Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc), go to Startup tab, and disable unnecessary programs.
- 5
Run Disk Cleanup: Search for "Disk Cleanup" in Start menu, select C: drive, and clean system files.
- 6
Restart your computer to apply changes.
Important Warnings
- •Only delete files from the temp folders mentioned, not from other system folders.
- •When disabling startup programs, keep essential security software enabled.
Fix common Wi-Fi and ethernet connection issues.
Tools/Software Needed
- Built-in Windows tools
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Check if the Wi-Fi is turned on: Look for the Wi-Fi icon in the system tray.
- 2
Restart your router: Unplug it for 30 seconds, then plug it back in and wait 2 minutes.
- 3
Forget and reconnect to network: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi, click your network, and select "Forget". Then reconnect.
- 4
Reset network settings: Open Command Prompt as administrator and run: "netsh winsock reset" then "netsh int ip reset".
- 5
Update network adapter driver: Press Windows + X, select Device Manager, expand Network adapters, right-click your adapter, and select "Update driver".
- 6
Restart your computer.
Important Warnings
- •Make sure you know your Wi-Fi password before forgetting the network.
- •Resetting network settings will remove all saved Wi-Fi networks.
Troubleshoot power issues and get your PC running again.
Tools/Software Needed
- No tools required for basic checks
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Check all power connections: Ensure power cable is firmly connected to both PC and wall outlet.
- 2
Try a different power outlet to rule out electrical issues.
- 3
For laptops: Remove battery (if removable), hold power button for 30 seconds, reconnect battery and try again.
- 4
For desktops: Check if the power supply switch on the back is in the ON position.
- 5
Disconnect all peripherals (USB devices, external drives) and try powering on.
- 6
Check for LED lights on motherboard or laptop - this indicates power is reaching the system.
- 7
If you hear beeping sounds, count the beeps and search online for your motherboard's beep code meaning.
Important Warnings
- •Never open the power supply unit - it contains dangerous voltages even when unplugged.
- •If working on a desktop, ensure it's unplugged before checking internal connections.
- •If you smell burning or see smoke, do not attempt to power on - seek professional help.
Fix display issues when your monitor shows no image.
Tools/Software Needed
- Spare video cable (if available)
- Alternative monitor for testing
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Check monitor power: Ensure monitor is plugged in and powered on (look for LED indicator).
- 2
Verify input source: Use monitor buttons to check correct input is selected (HDMI, DisplayPort, etc.).
- 3
Check cable connections: Ensure video cable is firmly connected to both PC and monitor.
- 4
Try a different video cable if available.
- 5
Increase brightness: Your monitor brightness might be turned all the way down.
- 6
Test with different monitor or TV if possible to isolate the issue.
- 7
For laptops: Try external monitor to check if laptop screen is faulty vs. graphics issue.
- 8
Press Windows + Ctrl + Shift + B to restart graphics driver.
Important Warnings
- •Don't force connectors - align pins carefully when connecting cables.
- •Ensure you're using the correct cable type for your monitor and graphics card.
Clean your computer from viruses and malware infections.
Tools/Software Needed
- Windows Defender (built-in)
- Malwarebytes Free (download)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Disconnect from internet to prevent further spread.
- 2
Boot into Safe Mode: Restart PC, press F8 repeatedly during startup, select "Safe Mode with Networking".
- 3
Run Windows Defender Full Scan: Open Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Scan options > Full scan.
- 4
Download and run Malwarebytes Free (from another clean computer if needed): www.malwarebytes.com
- 5
Let Malwarebytes complete a full scan and remove all detected threats.
- 6
Clear browser cache and reset browsers: Settings > Advanced > Reset settings.
- 7
Change all important passwords after cleaning.
- 8
Restart computer normally and run another scan to verify.
Important Warnings
- •Never pay ransom if you have ransomware - seek professional help.
- •Be careful downloading antivirus tools - only use trusted sources.
- •Some malware may prevent Safe Mode access - contact professionals if this occurs.
Reclaim storage space by removing unnecessary files.
Tools/Software Needed
- Built-in Windows tools
- External storage (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Run Disk Cleanup: Search "Disk Cleanup" in Start menu, select C: drive.
- 2
Click "Clean up system files" and check all boxes including "Previous Windows installations".
- 3
Empty Recycle Bin: Right-click Recycle Bin on desktop and select "Empty Recycle Bin".
- 4
Uninstall unused programs: Settings > Apps > Apps & features, remove programs you don't use.
- 5
Use Storage Sense: Settings > System > Storage > Configure Storage Sense, enable automatic cleanup.
- 6
Clear browser cache: In your browser settings, clear browsing data and cache.
- 7
Move files to external drive: Transfer photos, videos, and large files to external storage.
- 8
Use "Storage" in Settings to identify large files and folders.
Important Warnings
- •Don't delete files you don't recognise from system folders.
- •Back up important files before doing major cleanup.
- •Be careful when deleting "Previous Windows installations" - you won't be able to roll back.
Stop automatic restarts and identify the cause.
Tools/Software Needed
- Built-in Windows tools
- Compressed air for cleaning (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Disable automatic restart: Right-click This PC > Properties > Advanced system settings > Startup and Recovery Settings > Uncheck "Automatically restart".
- 2
Check for overheating: Ensure vents are not blocked, clean dust from fans if visible.
- 3
Boot into Safe Mode to test if software is causing issue.
- 4
Update Windows: Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > Check for updates.
- 5
Update drivers: Device Manager > right-click devices with yellow exclamation > Update driver.
- 6
Check for malware using Windows Defender full scan.
- 7
Run System File Checker: Open Command Prompt as admin and run "sfc /scannow".
- 8
Check Event Viewer for error codes: Windows key + X > Event Viewer > Windows Logs > System.
Important Warnings
- •If overheating is severe, shut down immediately to prevent hardware damage.
- •Don't ignore blue screen errors - note down the error code.
- •Hardware issues (RAM, power supply) may require professional diagnosis.
Fix Windows updates that won't complete.
Tools/Software Needed
- Built-in Windows tools
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Wait at least 2-3 hours - some updates genuinely take this long.
- 2
Force restart if truly stuck: Hold power button for 10 seconds.
- 3
Boot into Safe Mode and try updating again.
- 4
Run Windows Update Troubleshooter: Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Windows Update.
- 5
Clear Windows Update cache: Stop Windows Update service, delete C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution folder contents, restart service.
- 6
Run DISM tool: Open Command Prompt as admin and run "DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth".
- 7
Run System File Checker: "sfc /scannow" in Command Prompt as admin.
- 8
Try updating in Clean Boot state to avoid software conflicts.
Important Warnings
- •Don't interrupt updates unless absolutely necessary.
- •Back up important files before troubleshooting update issues.
- •Some steps require administrator access.
Fix unresponsive keyboard keys.
Tools/Software Needed
- Compressed air
- Soft brush
- External USB keyboard for testing
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Restart your computer - this fixes many temporary glitches.
- 2
Clean the keyboard: Turn off PC, gently clean around keys with compressed air or soft brush.
- 3
Check for physical damage or stuck keys.
- 4
Test in different program: Open Notepad and test all keys to identify which aren't working.
- 5
Update keyboard driver: Device Manager > Keyboards > right-click and update driver.
- 6
Try external USB keyboard to determine if it's hardware or software issue.
- 7
Check keyboard settings: Settings > Ease of Access > Keyboard, ensure Filter Keys is off.
- 8
For laptops: Check if Fn lock or special function is interfering.
Important Warnings
- •Never use liquid directly on keyboard - use damp (not wet) cloth only.
- •For laptops, keyboard replacement requires professional service.
- •Spilled liquids require immediate shutdown and professional cleaning.
Reduce fan noise and improve cooling.
Tools/Software Needed
- Compressed air
- Screwdriver for desktop case (if cleaning internally)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Check what's using CPU: Open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) and see if any program is using high CPU.
- 2
Close unnecessary programs and browser tabs.
- 3
Ensure proper ventilation: Keep laptop on hard surface, not on bed or couch.
- 4
Clean air vents: Use compressed air to blow out dust from vents (PC must be off).
- 5
For desktops: Open case and carefully clean fans and components with compressed air.
- 6
Update BIOS: Check manufacturer website for BIOS updates (advanced users only).
- 7
Adjust power settings: Control Panel > Power Options > select "Balanced" or "Power saver".
- 8
Check for malware that might be using resources in background.
Important Warnings
- •Use short bursts of compressed air, holding can upright.
- •Never spin fans with compressed air - hold them still while cleaning.
- •For laptops, internal cleaning requires professional disassembly.
- •BIOS updates carry risk - only proceed if confident.
Cool down your PC by improving airflow and reducing heat sources.
Tools/Software Needed
- Compressed air
- Screwdriver for desktop panels
- Thermal paste (advanced users)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Check vents and fans for dust; power off and clean gently with compressed air.
- 2
Ensure the PC sits on a hard surface with plenty of clearance for airflow.
- 3
Remove heavy background apps in Task Manager if CPU is constantly high.
- 4
For desktops: verify case fans are spinning and pointed to create front-to-back airflow.
- 5
Reapply thermal paste only if you are confident and have the right materials.
- 6
Monitor temps with HWMonitor or similar; aim for under 85°C under load.
Important Warnings
- •Always power down and unplug before opening a case.
- •Hold fans still while using compressed air to avoid damage.
- •If temps remain above 90°C, stop using the PC until fixed.
Fix common causes of Windows stop errors.
Tools/Software Needed
- Built-in Windows tools
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Note the stop code on the blue screen (e.g., MEMORY_MANAGEMENT, DRIVER_IRQL).
- 2
Disconnect recent USB devices and restart.
- 3
Update Windows and all drivers (especially graphics and chipset).
- 4
Run Memory Diagnostic: Press Windows + R, type 'mdsched', restart and test.
- 5
Run 'sfc /scannow' in an elevated Command Prompt to repair system files.
- 6
Check storage health: run 'chkdsk /f' on system drive (will schedule reboot).
Important Warnings
- •Backup important data if BSODs are frequent.
- •Stop code 'CRITICAL_PROCESS_DIED' or repeated failures may need professional help.
Restore audio when speakers or headphones are silent.
Tools/Software Needed
- Built-in Windows tools
- Spare headphones for testing
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Check the physical volume dial on speakers and the Windows volume slider.
- 2
Click the speaker icon and choose the correct output device.
- 3
Run the Audio Troubleshooter: Settings > System > Sound > Troubleshoot.
- 4
Ensure nothing is muted in Volume Mixer (right-click speaker icon).
- 5
Update or reinstall the audio driver in Device Manager.
- 6
Test with another app or a different pair of headphones.
Important Warnings
- •Loud pops can damage speakers—keep volume low while testing.
Resolve common printer connection and queue issues.
Tools/Software Needed
- Printer software/driver
- Wi-Fi password (for wireless setup)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Power-cycle the printer and ensure it's connected to Wi-Fi or USB.
- 2
Set it as default: Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers > Set default.
- 3
Clear the print queue: open Printers & scanners, select printer, open queue, cancel all.
- 4
Reinstall the printer driver from manufacturer site if jobs stay stuck.
- 5
Check paper, ink/toner levels, and open covers fully.
- 6
Try printing a test page from printer settings to confirm.
Important Warnings
- •Use the correct driver for your exact printer model.
- •Do not force paper out; follow jam removal steps in the manual.
Fix USB drives or peripherals that won't show up.
Tools/Software Needed
- Built-in Windows tools
- Spare USB port or powered hub
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Try a different USB port (prefer rear ports on desktops).
- 2
Disconnect other USB devices to reduce power draw.
- 3
Open Device Manager, expand Universal Serial Bus controllers, and scan for hardware changes.
- 4
Right-click the failing device and select Uninstall device, then reconnect it.
- 5
For storage drives: open Disk Management and assign a drive letter if missing.
Important Warnings
- •Avoid cheap USB hubs for power-hungry devices.
- •Do not format a drive unless you're sure data is backed up.
Extend battery life with quick power tweaks.
Tools/Software Needed
- Built-in Windows tools
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Select Battery Saver mode and lower screen brightness.
- 2
Disable background apps: Settings > Apps > Installed apps > turn off background permissions.
- 3
Turn off Bluetooth and Wi-Fi when not needed.
- 4
Check battery health in Windows (Settings > System > Power & battery > Battery usage).
- 5
Update BIOS and chipset drivers from manufacturer for power fixes.
- 6
Calibrate: charge to 100%, use to 5-10%, then recharge fully.
Important Warnings
- •Battery swelling is dangerous—stop using and seek service if the chassis bulges.
Stabilise apps that freeze or close unexpectedly.
Tools/Software Needed
- Built-in Windows tools
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Update the app to the latest version or reinstall it.
- 2
Run Windows Update to ensure dependencies are current.
- 3
Clear app cache/data if the app provides that option.
- 4
Run 'sfc /scannow' to repair missing system files.
- 5
Check Event Viewer > Windows Logs > Application for recurring errors.
Important Warnings
- •Repeated crashes after reinstall may indicate profile corruption—consider a new Windows user profile.
Get your camera detected again for calls and recordings.
Tools/Software Needed
- Built-in Windows tools
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Check for a physical privacy shutter or keyboard camera toggle.
- 2
Allow camera access: Settings > Privacy & security > Camera > enable for apps.
- 3
Test in the Camera app to confirm hardware works.
- 4
Update camera driver in Device Manager (Imaging devices/Cameras).
- 5
If using USB webcam, try another port and unplug other webcams.
Important Warnings
- •Cover the lens while troubleshooting if privacy is a concern.
Clean unwanted extensions and reset your browser.
Tools/Software Needed
- Windows Defender
- Malwarebytes Free (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Remove suspicious extensions/add-ons in your browser settings.
- 2
Reset browser settings to default (Chrome: Settings > Reset settings).
- 3
Run a full scan with Windows Defender and a second-opinion scanner (e.g., Malwarebytes).
- 4
Clear browsing data: cache, cookies, and site data.
- 5
Check startup programs and disable unknown entries.
Important Warnings
- •Avoid clicking unknown pop-ups even to close them—use Task Manager to end the browser if needed.
Speed up startup and logon.
Tools/Software Needed
- Built-in Windows tools
- SSD upgrade (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Disable unneeded startup apps: Task Manager > Startup apps.
- 2
Turn off Fast Startup toggle off/on: Control Panel > Power Options > Choose what the power buttons do.
- 3
Uninstall unused programs that auto-start services.
- 4
Ensure Windows and drivers are updated.
- 5
Run 'sfc /scannow' and 'DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth'.
- 6
If on HDD, consider upgrading to SSD for major improvement.
Important Warnings
- •Do not disable security software from startup.