Common Hardware Failures

Because a PC is built from mechanical parts, over time it is likely that some will break down and eventually fail, meaning you'll require the services of a computer repair expert. Laptop computers, due to the size of their parts, are generally more difficult to repair. The two most common parts of your computer that are prone to failure are the power supply and your hard disk.

Spyware

Spyware is a form of software that is normally installed automatically without the user’s knowledge, and is used for a number of malicious purposes. Spyware was coined as a term around 1995, and is a very prevalent form of malicious software in New Zealand and worldwide. It is estimated that over 60% (some say over 90%) of computers are affected by some form of spyware. Some of the functions of spyware include: collecting and reporting user’s personal information; installing ad toolbars and pop up software; funnelling advertisement and affiliate marketing revenue to a third party; and redirecting Web browsers to advertising sites. Spyware will also generally slow a computer down and cause unexpected crashes. It is commonly installed when users click on unsolicited links and download software where the spyware “piggybacks” as part of the program; typical examples include P2P sharing software, Internet optimiser programs and shareware. Computer users in New Zealand who favour the Microsoft Internet Explorer Web browser are particularly vulnerable to spyware. A good way to reduce your risk is to use an alternative browser such as Mozilla Firefox or Opera. It is essential these days to have a good anti spyware program. As with anti virus programs, anti spyware software is available in both commercial and free forms, and will be updated automatically through your internet connection.

Hard Disk Failure

The hard disk is, to most people, the most critical component of their PC. It stores all the data and information, including important documents, photos, videos and all programs installed. The hard disk failing can cause a lot of tears - and there isn't a lot you can do to prevent it from happening. Causes of hard disk break down can be physical (that is, something is wrong with the components of the hard drive itself) or logical (something is wrong with the way the data is being stored on the disk). Physical problems can be related to an electrical spike causing damage, or components wearing out inside the hard disk. Logical problems are the most common type of hard disk crash, and can sometimes be fixed by using the check disk or scandisk programs that are standard with a Windows PC. However, when dealing with either physical or logical hard disk failures, trying to fix these errors yourself can lead to further loss of data. A good idea is to employ the services of an data repair expert. In addition, it is highly recommended that you back up all hard disk data regularly, as an insurance plan against possible failure.

Viruses

A computer virus is a malicious piece of code or computer program that can copy itself or infect a computer without the knowledge of the user. Viruses have been around since the early 1970’s and cause many issues in relation to computer repairs in New Zealand, and worldwide. The best way to stay virus free is to get a reliable  anti-virus expert and perform regular scans. Antivirus software is available in both commercial and free forms, and will be updated automatically through your Internet connection. In most cases, the program will scan your emails as they come in, as an extra precaution

Power Supply

Power supply failure The power supply of a computer is probably the component most prone to failure. This is due to it controlling the power for all other elements of your PC. The surge of current and constant heating and cooling cause the power supply to be under a lot of stress. Signs that your power supply is on the blink include random restarting of your operating system for no reason, a burning smell just before shutdown, or the failure of the cooling fan.

Common Software Problems

Many computer users in New Zealand will have experienced a gradual slowdown of their operating system over time; this can cause a lot of hassles as well as lost productivity. A simple solution is to keep your system as clean as possible. Minimise the number of programs you install, only loading the ones you need and uninstalling the ones you don’t. Delete your temporary Internet files, “cookies”, and stored offline content. Only set the necessary programs to start upon system start-up; this will make a big difference to your loading speed. Get a registry repair tool; this will improve your system’s file organisation function for improved performance. If all else fails, try a full “system restore” (only on Windows XP and Vista), or backup all of your important files, format the entire hard disk and reinstall your operating system.