We’ve all been there – your computer starts acting up, and you’re not sure whether to tough it out or seek help. Here are 10 clear signs that it’s time to bring your device to a professional:

1. Extremely Slow Performance

If your computer takes several minutes to boot up or programs take forever to open, there might be an underlying issue like a failing hard drive or malware infection.

2. Frequent Crashes and Blue Screens

Occasional crashes happen, but if you’re seeing the Blue Screen of Death regularly, it’s a sign of hardware failure or driver issues that need professional attention.

3. Strange Noises

Clicking, grinding, or whirring sounds from your computer are never a good sign. These often indicate failing hard drives or fans.

4. Overheating

If your laptop is too hot to touch or your desktop’s fans are constantly running at full speed, there could be a cooling system problem.

5. Pop-ups and Unwanted Programs

Unexpected pop-ups, new toolbars, or programs you didn’t install are classic signs of malware that needs professional removal.

6. Programs Freezing Regularly

When applications stop responding frequently, it could indicate RAM issues, software conflicts, or corrupted system files.

7. Internet Connection Issues

If your computer has connectivity problems while other devices work fine, you might have network card issues or malware affecting your connection.

8. Files Disappearing or Corrupting

Missing files or documents that won’t open properly could signal hard drive failure – get it checked immediately to prevent data loss.

9. Error Messages on Startup

Repeated error messages when your computer starts up indicate system file corruption or hardware problems.

10. Battery Draining Quickly

For laptops, rapid battery drain can indicate a failing battery, background processes, or power management issues.

What to Do Next

If you’re experiencing any of these issues, don’t wait until it’s too late. Bring your device to Gatley Computers for a free diagnostic assessment. Early intervention can prevent data loss and save you money in the long run.