Software failures are common, and one of the most common reasons behind them is hardware breakdown. They are interlinked, and you need to consider every tiny bit of both to detect the actual problem and fix it without any delays.
Frequent crashes with or without error messages, sudden freezes, computers running too slow are some of the symptoms that notify you that something went wrong. If you notice any of such signs that are not usual, you should take quick action.
In this article, we explain some common errors and reasons that cause software failures in computers. Some of the fixes mentioned herein apply to both Windows and macOS computers, while some are platform-specific.
Virus Intrusions
Viruses and spyware are some of the most common issues that cause software failures, making the device slow and data inaccessible in severe cases. In some cases, you might see that the internet is not working, or there’s an icon that seems scary. Your system might have come in contact with the virus when you were downloading an app or opening an email with a suspicious link embedded.
Solution: Install an antivirus to get rid of the virus issue in your computer. It is recommended to get an antivirus app when you purchase the computer to protect your device from viruses. After installing the app, scan your computer completely to check for viruses and remove them right away.
Illegitimate Application
An application that you have installed recently from any random website can be a huge source of device failure. Such apps are not reliable and can pose a threat to your computer. If you are experiencing a spinning beachball that doesn’t seem to stop any sooner, there might be an app responsible for it. Waiting for minutes after clicking on the app icon also indicates insufficient RAM, so you need to detect the actual reason.
Solution: In this case, both software and hardware might be at fault, and you need to identify the cause. First, check what all processes are running in the background and disable the resource-consuming ones. If that doesn’t help resolve the problem, navigate to check the recently downloaded apps and delete them.
Login Items
Another common problem that leads to the occurrence of adverse outcomes is the login items that keep running all the time in the background when your computer is active. Some of these applications, such as Photoshop, gaming apps, image-editing apps, are resource heavy and occupy storage and memory along with processing power. They not only slow down your computer but don’t leave much room for important applications to run smoothly.
Solution: When login items are creating the problem, it is advised to deactivate or quit them to stop resource consumption. Not only will it speed up your computer, but it will also allocate resources to other important processes to help them work efficiently. Once you quit the login items or startup apps, you can delete them permanently from the computer.
Sudden Shutdown
If your computer shuts down abruptly and is not restarting, hardware breakdown can be the reason. In this case, there’s not much that you can do if the computer won’t start. Apart from hardware errors, some apps might be broken, or there could be driver issues. Also, you need to check if the operating system is working appropriately. Overheating can be one of the reasons that result in unusual shutdowns.
Solution: In most cases, a simple restart is all you need to bring your computer back to its normal working state. If not, check if the power outlet is in good condition and there is a sufficient power supply. If that’s not the problem, you need to contact the technician for assistance. You can try multiple methods only when you can see the screen; if it doesn’t display, technical support is the only way left.
Compatibility Errors
Technology is ever-changing and is not meant to last forever. There are updates, upgrades, and then all-new versions that are making it difficult for devices to cope. Software incompatibility is considered one of the major reasons that result in severe outcomes, and you may find it difficult to work smoothly on your computer. Even though the new app architecture is growing in complexity, developers are taking all possible steps to ensure it doesn’t break older versions.
Solution: Although you can select to run the applications in compatibility mode on several computers, it is highly recommended to check for the app version before installation. It will prevent you from downloading any incompatible app on your computer. Also, update and upgrade the operating system to make it highly compatible with the latest apps. It will also prevent you from falling into security gaps and fix any existing bugs straight away.
