# Computer Troubleshooting

This guide covers common issues with FVSD Windows computers and basic steps to try before contacting IT.

## Computer Won't Turn On

1. Make sure the **power cable is connected** — check both ends (wall outlet and computer)
2. If it's a portable computer, plug in the charger and wait a few minutes — the battery may be drained
3. Press and hold the **Power button** for 10 seconds, then release and press it again
4. If using a docking station, try connecting the power cable directly to the computer instead

If it still won't power on, contact IT.

## Computer Is Slow

1. **Restart your computer** — this fixes many performance issues. Use **Start** > **Power** > **Restart** (not Shut Down, as Restart clears more temporary data)
2. **Close programs you're not using** — too many open applications use up memory
3. **Close extra browser tabs** — each tab uses resources
4. **Check for Windows updates** — go to **Settings** > **Windows Update** and install any pending updates, then restart

If your computer is consistently slow after restarting, contact IT.

## Screen Is Black or Frozen

### Screen Is Black

- Press a key or move the mouse — the computer may be asleep
- Check that the monitor cable is connected (if using an external monitor)
- Try pressing **Ctrl + Alt + Delete** — if a menu appears, the computer is on but the display may have an issue

### Computer Is Frozen

1. Wait a minute — it may be processing something
2. Try **Ctrl + Alt + Delete** > **Task Manager** — close any applications marked "Not Responding"
3. If nothing responds, hold the **Power button** for 10 seconds to force shut down, then turn it back on

## Keyboard or Mouse Not Working

### Wired (USB)

- Unplug and replug the USB cable
- Try a different USB port
- Restart your computer

### Wireless (Bluetooth)

- Check that the device is turned on and charged
- Try turning Bluetooth off and on: **Settings** > **Bluetooth & devices**
- Restart your computer

## No Sound

1. Check the **volume** — click the speaker icon in the taskbar and make sure it's not muted or set to zero
2. Make sure the correct **output device** is selected — right-click the speaker icon > **Sound settings** > choose the right device under Output
3. If using headphones, try unplugging and replugging them
4. Restart your computer

## Docking Station Issues

If your monitor, keyboard, mouse, or network aren't working through a docking station:

1. **Unplug the docking station cable** from your computer, wait 10 seconds, and plug it back in
2. Try connecting your computer's charger directly (not through the dock) to rule out a power issue
3. If a specific device isn't working (e.g., monitor), check that its cable is firmly connected to the dock
4. Restart your computer

If the dock is still not working, contact IT.

## Contact IT

Contact IT if:

- The issue persists after trying the steps above
- Your computer has **physical damage** (cracked screen, broken keys, etc.)
- You see **error messages** you don't understand
- Your computer was **lost or stolen** — report this immediately

- **Submit a ticket** through the IT helpdesk
- **Email:** helpdesk@fvsd.ab.ca

Please include:

- Your **name and school**
- A description of what's happening
- The **computer name or asset tag** if you know it
- Any error messages you see