Troubleshooting computer problems is a complex art. It involves knowledge of hardware devices, the operating system, and application software. The purpose of this web page is to present a general overview of troubleshooting.
There are a few things you must consider before troubleshooting your computer. First, you need to know if you have the necessary skills to do the troubleshooting. I have found some of my most difficult troubleshooting sessions have been the result of a user attempting to resolve a problem which they did not have the necessary skills or knowledge to perform. Do not stop reading if you don't think you can do the troubleshooting yourself. This material should also assist you when speaking to a technical support person. If you really want to learn how to troubleshoot, there are many books on the subject at various skill levels.
Identifying the problem is the most important step in the troubleshooting process. It is also one of the most often overlooked. There are numerous error messages which say one thing, but in fact the problem is quite different. Take for example a problem I encountered with an application called 'Maximo'. The error message displayed as "Database not available". I first checked the directory where the database should have been. Further troubleshooting led me to the problem - the password assigned to the application's user account had been changed. Once the correct password was entered, the problem was resolved.
Part of identifying the problem includes gathering the facts concerning the problem. When did the problem start? When was the last time the application or computer functioned properly? What changes were made between these times? I have been led on some wild goose chases because I was not given all the information I should have had (not that I did not ask).
Is the problem related to hardware or software?
Identify the resources at your disposal for problem resolution. Resources include the Internet, web sites and Newsgroups, books, technical support, help desks, and consulting groups.
You will find the troubleshooters included with Windows 98 Help. Press the start button, then select Help. The troubleshooters appear at the bottom of the left hand column of the Help window. The troubleshooter tools walk you through a series of questions and answers selected with radio buttons. The troubleshooters are simple and the most novice user should be able to follow them. I do list the troubleshooters included in Windows 98, but because they are so easy to use, I do not include instructions.
 Networking |
Modem |
Startup and Shutdown |
Print |
| Drive Space 3 |
Memory |
MSDOS Programs |
Display |
| Direct X |
Sound |
The Microsoft Network |
Hardware Conflict |
| Dial Up Networking |
Direct Cable Connection |
PC Card |
Click the screwdriver to move to Windows 98 Tools.
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