If you suspect a specific piece of hardware is not working correctly, click the appropriate links below. Otherwise, if you are unsure which hardware may have an issue, we suggest browsing through the whole document for a proper diagnosis. Although hardware failures most certainly may occur in your computer, it is important to check for as many software issues as you can before proceeding. The fact is, most errors are caused by software (such as drivers) related problems, not by a failing hardware device. See basic troubleshooting for a good starting point.

Computer HDD (hard disk drive)

  • How to test a hard drive for failures.

Computer RAM (random access memory)

  • How to test computer memory to determine if it’s bad.

Computer motherboard & CPU (central processing unit)

  • How to test a computer motherboard and CPU for failures.

Computer PSU (power supply unit)

Although some programs, such as SpeedFan, helps monitor the voltage and power supplied to computer fans, there is no software utility to test the integrity of computer power supplies.

  • Computer HDD (hard disk drive).
  • Computer RAM (random access memory).
  • Computer motherboard & CPU (central processing unit).
  • Computer PSU (power supply unit).
  • Computer CD/DVD disc drives.
  • Computer network, Wi-Fi, or Internet.

There are methods of testing the connectors on a power supply using a multimeter. However, due to potential damage to the power supply, the motherboard, and components connected to it, this information is not posted on Computer Hope. Due to their relatively low cost and easy installation, we recommend users replace the power supply if it’s believed to be failing or bad.

  • Why won’t my computer turn on?

Computer CD/DVD disc drives

  • How to test a computer CD-ROM and DVD drive for failures.

Computer network, Wi-Fi, or Internet

If you are having problems connecting to the Internet on your devices, you may be encountering a problem with your network or Wi-Fi connection. Below are the steps on troubleshooting networking and Wi-Fi related problems.

  • Basic network troubleshooting.
  • Why is my Wi-Fi not working?
  • How to adjust the settings of a home router.
  • Where do I find my WEP, WPA, or WPA2 key?
  • Basic computer troubleshooting.
  • POST troubleshooting steps.
  • See the CD, CPU, DVD, HDD, motherboard, PSU, and RAM definitions for further information and related links.
  • Computer hardware help and support.