Get free PC help online

Few things can compare to the sense of quiet horror that strikes whenever your computer goes wrong. Whether it’s an incomprehensible error message that pops up out of the blue or a complete freeze, that initial sinking feeling is accompanied by dozens of frantic questions –­ has my PC been completely ruined? Is my computer infected with a deadly virus? Have I lost all my files? And, eventually, how on earth am I going to fix this?

In this feature we’ll be helping you to help yourself with all kinds of computer problems, using search engines, user forums and online support options, the majority of which are free. So, next time disaster strikes, don’t lose your cool.

Read our advice over the next few pages and empower yourself with the ability to diagnose and fix the problem yourself.

Obviously the suggestions we make here rely on an internet connection, which isn’t much help if yours is not working. However, many libraries offer internet access so you can research problems, get advice and download tools. To book an internet session at a library, contact your local council.

Under warranty?
We should point out that if your PC is still under warranty and your manufacturer offers free telephone or email support, this may be your best route to fixing a problem, particularly if your trouble stems from an obvious hardware fault (a monitor that doesn’t work or a PC that doesn’t switch on, for example).

And if your manufacturer starts playing hard to get, then our free guide to consumer rights could help.

Thankfully, the majority of PC problems aren’t caused by faulty hardware. Most errors can be sorted out by tweaking software settings, tidying up your hard disk or uninstalling applications. These are things you can often do yourself –­ all you need to know is how.