Solve Windows start-up problems easily

Problems such as programs not running properly or intermittent internet connections are frustrating, but when Windows simply refuses to load it can leave you feeling helpless. After all, how can you fix a problem if you can’t get the PC started to change anything?

Thankfully, all is not lost, as there’s a selection of tools available to help get things back to normal. We’ll take you through the process of identifying and then fixing hardware and software problems.

First steps
When Windows fails to load, it’s important to first work out whether it’s a hardware or software problem. If you get to the stage where the Windows logo is displayed the issue is most likely software related, but if the computer crashes before this point (or nothing is displayed on the monitor), the chances are that something is physically broken.

If you suspect a hardware fault it’s best to take a methodical approach to diagnosing the problem. If the computer starts up but the monitor remains blank, check that all the cables are properly attached and the monitor is set to the correct input ­ if it has several sockets it may be trying to display the picture from a socket that’s not connected. Try all the inputs to see if any work. If you have access to a spare monitor, plug that in to see if your normal monitor has developed a fault.

Listen up
If nothing’s appearing on screen, try listening to your PC. If the hard disk is whirring away normally, the problem is likely to be with your monitor. However, if the hard disk is making a strange grinding noise (or no noise at all), it could have developed a fault.

If your PC has an internal speaker you’ll normally hear a short beep when you switch it on. If this changes to an unusual sequence of beeps (for example, four short beeps), it’s trying to alert you to a problem. Consult the motherboard’s manual to see what the different beep codes indicate; common problems include a faulty processor or memory module, and the beeps will often point towards a specific fix.

If nothing is happening when the power button is pushed, there’s a good chance it can be fixed at minimal expense. All PCs use a power supply unit (PSU) that turns the mains electricity into the lower voltages required by computer components, and these can break down.

If the PSU is broken, your PC won’t work. Thankfully, though, they’re relatively cheap (around £50) and easy to replace – ­ our article on building a new PC describes how to install one.

However, before buying a new power supply, it’s important to rule out simple causes. Check if the fuse in the PC’s plug has blown by using a different power cable, and plug another device into the same socket to check that it’s working. Many desktop PCs have a second power switch on the back ­ – has this been knocked into the off position?

Recent upgrades
Another important step is to think about what you’ve recently been doing to your PC. If a new piece of hardware has been installed it could be causing a problem that’s stopping Windows from loading, so try removing it. Similarly, if your PC has suffered a knock or recently been transported, some of the internal components may be dislodged.

If the PC still won’t start, try removing all unnecessary hardware, such as printers, scanners, USB modems and wireless keyboard or mouse receivers. If the PC still won’t start try removing any non-essential internal hardware, such as soundcards and TV tuners.

Before opening the PC, switch it off at the wall socket and press the power button. If Windows starts once the components have been removed then replace them one-by-one, turning the PC off each time to add one, to work out which is causing the problem.

Another thing to check while the PC is open is the components and cables. These should all be securely in place. If any appear dislodged (cables linking hard disks to the motherboard can pop out during transit) carefully but firmly push them back into position.

Also, make sure no screws have come loose and that there are no wires jamming any of the fans. If the inside of the PC is dusty, use a can of compressed air to blow the dust away.