TROUBLESHOOTING

What to do when your computer won't start?

📅 25 Aug 2026 · ⏱️ 6 min read

It's the moment nobody hopes for: you press the power button, but the computer does nothing. Or you see a black screen. Or the computer beeps strangely.

Before bringing it in for repair, go through these steps – often the problem is easy to fix yourself.

First: identify the symptom

What happens when you press the power button?

  • Nothing – the computer doesn't react at all
  • Lights come on, but the screen is black
  • Logo appears, but it freezes
  • The computer beeps strangely
  • Error message at startup
  • Starts and shuts down immediately

Step 1: Check power and cables

✅ Do these first

  1. Make sure the power cable is properly connected to both the computer and the outlet
  2. Try another outlet
  3. Laptop: try another charger
  4. Check that the power button isn't stuck
  5. Desktop: check the power supply switch on the back (I/0)

Step 2: Check the monitor

  • Is the monitor's power cable connected?
  • Is the monitor on? (Green light vs. orange)
  • Try another monitor or cable (HDMI/DisplayPort)
  • Laptop: press Fn + display toggle key to switch to an external monitor

Step 3: Force shutdown and restart

If the computer freezes, try a forced shutdown:

  1. Hold the power button for 10 seconds
  2. Wait 30 seconds
  3. Restart

Laptop: remove the battery (if possible) and power cable, hold the power button for 30 seconds, put the battery back.

Step 4: Disconnect external devices

Sometimes a USB device, printer, or external drive prevents startup:

  1. Shut down the computer
  2. Disconnect all USB devices (except keyboard and mouse)
  3. Restart

Step 5: Listen to the beeps

If the computer beeps at startup, the code tells you the problem:

  • 1 long + 1 short: Motherboard issue
  • 1 long + 2 short: Graphics card issue
  • Continuous beeping: Memory (RAM) issue
  • 3 long: Memory issue
⚠️ Note: Beep codes vary by motherboard manufacturer. Check the exact codes in your motherboard manual.

Step 6: Try Safe Mode

If the computer starts but freezes while loading the operating system:

Windows:

  1. Start the computer and hold F8 or Shift + F8
  2. Select "Safe Mode"
  3. If the computer works in Safe Mode, the problem is likely software

Step 7: Check internal components (desktop)

Only if you have experience and the computer is disconnected from mains power:

  • Open the case
  • Check that the memory sticks are properly seated
  • Check that all cables are connected (power supply, motherboard, graphics card)
  • Carefully clean the dust
  • Try to start
⚠️ Warning: Don't open the computer if it's under warranty – the warranty is voided. Don't touch components with bare hands (static electricity can damage them).

Step 8: Try startup repair (Windows)

  1. Boot from Windows installation media (USB)
  2. Select "Repair your computer"
  3. Select "Troubleshoot" → "Startup Repair"

When to call a professional?

  • The computer doesn't react to the power button at all
  • Strange noises (clicking, humming)
  • Smoke or burning smell
  • The computer beeps strangely and you don't know what to do
  • You've tried all the steps, but nothing helps
  • You have important files on the computer that you don't want to lose
💡 Tip: If the computer won't start, don't try to fix the hard drive yourself. You can damage the data irreversibly. A professional can rescue the data.

Summary

Most startup problems are solved with simple checks: power cable, monitor, external devices. If the problem persists, it may be a hardware issue that requires a professional.

Never try to force a fix – it can make things worse.

Computer won't start? We can help.

We provide a free diagnosis and tell you what's worth doing – with no obligation.

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📞 Or call: +358 45 114 0016