Computer Troubleshooting

This guide covers common issues with FVSD Windows computers and basic steps to try before contacting IT.
Computer Won't Turn On
Make sure the power cable is connected — check both ends (wall outlet and computer)
If it's a portable computer, plug in the charger and wait a few minutes — the battery may be drained
Press and hold the Power button for 10 seconds, then release and press it again
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
Restart your computer — this fixes many performance issues. Use Start > Power > Restart (not Shut Down, as Restart clears more temporary data)
Close programs you're not using — too many open applications use up memory
Close extra browser tabs — each tab uses resources
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
Wait a minute — it may be processing something
Try Ctrl + Alt + Delete > Task Manager — close any applications marked "Not Responding"
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
Check the volume — click the speaker icon in the taskbar and make sure it's not muted or set to zero
Make sure the correct output device is selected — right-click the speaker icon > Sound settings > choose the right device under Output
If using headphones, try unplugging and replugging them
Restart your computer
Docking Station Issues
If your monitor, keyboard, mouse, or network aren't working through a docking station:
Unplug the docking station cable from your computer, wait 10 seconds, and plug it back in
Try connecting your computer's charger directly (not through the dock) to rule out a power issue
If a specific device isn't working (e.g., monitor), check that its cable is firmly connected to the dock
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