Basic Troubleshooting Checklist

Common checks

1. Describe the problem
Write the exact error or symptom. Note what you were doing and when it began.

2. Protect unsaved work
Save any open documents that can still be saved. Photograph or copy the error message.

3. Check the scope
Decide whether the issue affects one file, one application, one user, one device, or the whole network.

4. Check power and connections
Confirm plugs, chargers, cables, wireless switches, volume, display input, and indicator lights.

5. Check the selected device
Confirm the correct printer, speaker, microphone, camera, drive, or Wi-Fi network is selected.

6. Try a known-good item
Test another website, file, cable, port, account, or device to isolate the problem.

7. Close and reopen
Close the affected application normally and open it again.

8. Restart normally
Save work and restart the computer through the operating system.

9. Check storage and updates
Confirm there is free space and note whether an update is pending or just installed.

10. Record the result
Write what changed, what did not, and any new error.

11. Stop before risky changes
Back up data before reinstalling, resetting, editing system settings, or opening hardware.

12. Escalate safely
Use official support or a trusted technician. Do not grant remote access to an unsolicited caller.

Notes for yourself or support

0 of 12 checks completed

Begin by describing the problem.

When to stop

Stop when the next step would risk data, expose credentials, defeat security controls, require payment to an unknown party, or involve internal electrical work. A clear record of the problem is valuable even when you do not solve it yourself.

Remote-access warningLegitimate organizations do not need an unexpected caller to take over your computer to issue a refund, remove a virus, or protect a bank account.