6 Signs That Your Computer Is in Trouble

Computers are a huge help with a lot of everyday things we do. However, it’s also a huge inconvenience when they stop working. A lot of files and deadlines are at stake when this occurs. Luckily, you can avoid such a disaster. To prevent an unexpected tragedy from happening, watch out for these warning signs that your computer is in trouble:

  1. Peripherals Not Working Properly

Peripheral devices may show signs that your computer is in trouble. These devices, such as keyboards, can malfunction when there is a problem with your computer. It could be something as simple as malfunctioning keys, which you can replace with keyboard switches such as those from Keyboard Queen.

Notice any changes in the performance of your keyboard, mouse, or printers. The problem could be on the ports, which need hardware fixing, or it could be because of driver issues, which are a software problem.

  1. Sluggish or Unresponsive Performance

There’s nothing more inconvenient than when you’re nearing a deadline and suddenly your computer starts slowing down or stops working altogether. It’s like they can smell your fear. It just has to stop working when you urgently need to speed things up.

There are many reasons why your computer slows down.

  • HackersHackers use huge gigabytes of data to carry on their attacks. It’s very dangerous not just for your computer but for you as well. Hackers might be snooping on your data, sending spam, or mining cryptocurrencies.
  • Malware – There could be malicious bugs and software running on your computer. These viruses infect your computers and attack your programs and applications, causing your computer to slow down.
  • Low Space – Different computers have different amounts of storage built into them. You’re lucky if your computer has large storage because you can keep lots of files but still have optimum performance. However, when too many files are on your computer, your PC could slow down.
  • Slow Processor – Each computer comes with a RAM. It determines how your computer can handle multiple programs running at the same time. If you have a slow processor, then don’t expect your computer to run heavy apps efficiently.

Running an antivirus or malware scan can determine whether your computer is being hacked or has a computer virus. If the scan came up clear, then the problem might be because of low space or slow processor.

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You can free up space by deleting files or moving them to an external hard drive. You can also upgrade slow processors or old ones so your computer can handle all its tasks.

  1. Random Changes in Settings

If you notice anything unusual with anything about your computer, then that’s a sign. A virus may have infected your computer and made changes that you didn’t authorize. Malware can penetrate your system and make changes so it can carry out its tasks that will harm your computer.

When you see new or unfamiliar features such as icons, homepages, extensions, etc., check your computer immediately. The malware can gain control over your computer and prevent you from making any changes to it.

  1. Strange Sounds

Any sound that your computer makes that you haven’t heard before could indicate a problem with your hardware. It’s understandable because, over time, the parts slowly wear out. However, you shouldn’t overlook these because more damage might happen to your computer if you ignore it.

When it gets too warm inside your computer, the fan could start sounding louder than usual. Prevent overheating because it can cause hardware failure. Whirring or rattling sounds from your hard drive could also mean trouble. Check your computer and see if any replacements are needed.

  1. Random Web Pop-up Ads

Pop-up ads are normal albeit extremely annoying. These ads pop up out of nowhere and block the actual content you want to see. You can get rid of these pop-ups by simply clicking the close button. Start getting alarmed when these pop-ups appear more often than usual, especially if the ad contains malicious content.

Pop-up ads that say you won something, invite you to play games and makes it difficult to return to your page, or flashes a malware alert are signs for worry. Run a malware scan or check your browser extensions to see if there are any suspicious bugs or software.

  1. Recurring Error Messages

If you missed the signs above, then maybe a direct error message is your wake up call. When you continually receive messages saying there’s an error or issue with your computer that needs fixing, then you probably should have it checked out.

When you notice any of these signs, check your computer or have someone inspect it. Don’t ignore these red flags and take immediate action. Some computer problems are preventable if you act on them straightaway. This way, you prevent further damage to your computer – or maybe it’s time to buy a new one.

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