Empowering Users: 10 Crucial Steps Before Calling the IT Guy
In this ever-evolving world of technology, it is crucial to empower users with some basic troubleshooting steps when handling their company-issued devices. The situation right now is that you, yes you, will run to IT for the smallest hiccup you encounter when using your laptop. How about we arm you with some knowledge, so we can save you some time for small things you could fix on your own. Here are 10 steps to follow before reaching out to IT Support:
1. Basic Troubleshooting:
As simple as this may seem, many technical glitches can be fixed by restarting the device. Computers are like people in this way, when you overload the input, there is an information overload. It is also more secure to have a regular restart schedule which avoids hitches caused by uninstalled updates, including security features.
“The best way to reset is to restart”
Select the power icon at the bottom (Windows 11/10) or top (Windows 8) of the screen. Select Restart on the start menu.
You can also try to check your physical wire connections to the devices, ensuring that they are in their respective ports and connected to a power source. These can end up solving your challenge without professional assistance.
2. Check Network Connections:
Ensure your internet connection is stable. In the case that you have several Wi-Fi connections available, try switching from one to the other.
If you don’t know where to look, select the Start button on your keyboard, then type settings. Select Settings > Network & internet. The status of your network connection will appear at the top, and it should be Connected.
3. Update Software:
When you keep your device up-to-date, you get the latest fixes to issues that have been reported to your product’s development team. These may include the issue you’re currently experiencing. Updates often include security patches to protect against vulnerabilities and bug fixes to improve the software’s functionality. Therefore, aim to always keep your laptop updated and it will save you a lot of hassle. Similarly, recently installed software might be the issue, so you can check the update history and reinstall the latest ones. There is a chance that they did not install properly and are the cause of the hiccup.
To check for updates, select the Start button, and then go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update. Click check for updates and install all, and allow the restart to install the updates. The Update History is in the menu below the check updates button.
4. Document the issue:
Before calling for the IT guy, ensure that you maintain a clear record of the issue you are encountering. This means that you should cover when it started, what actions seemed to trigger it, and any incident that may have happened. It is also wise to include visual aids like screenshots to give a clearer picture of the challenge. I feel the strong need to warn you not to exempt any details, even if you fear that they may implicate you. The laptop could get further damage if you withhold any information about the issue, and that’s no better now, is it?
A clear note of this will make the troubleshooting process easier, faster, and more effective.
5. Backup your data:
Prioritize the files that are important to you and create backups, even for the entire system if feasible. This is in anticipation of the worst case scenario where the troubleshooting and/or repairs cause data loss. Make sure you do this in advance, as it may sometimes take up a lot of time.
6. Research online:
Dive deep into online resources using search engines while using specific keywords that are relevant to your challenge. Many of the common IT issues have been discussed at length in documentations and scrutinizing forums, providing step-by-step guides on how you can overcome the issue. Follow the most approved one, and attempt to troubleshoot your device.
7. Note Recent Changes
Consider any recent changes or installations that may have occurred just before onset of the issue. Be ready to discuss this information at length with the IT guys as this could be crucial to diagnosing and solving issues. A meticulous record of this may highlight any correlation that gives vital clues during diagnosis.
8. Run Antivirus and Malware Scans:
Perform a thorough antivirus and malware scan to rule out any potential security threats. Sometimes, unusual behavior in the device is caused by malicious software trying to access sensitive data. Let’s just make sure to rule out that an imminent security threat may be the root cause.
9. Error messages
If you encounter any error messages or codes, jolt them down. These can be invaluable in the process of determining the root cause of the challenge that you are experiencing. Delve into these messages on the internet before reaching out for assistance. There might be simple community-driven solutions and workarounds available for you.
10. IT Policies
Showcase a profound understanding of the IT policies in your organization. Ensure that your device is compliant, if not, take the necessary steps to make sure that it is before calling anyone. These are policies that were most probably listed in a bunch of papers that you signed upon employment, and you don’t wanna mess with that. Some issues may be due to failure to adhere to security protocols, in which case an authorized person like an IT Compliance Admin, will be requested to resolve the issue. DO NOT follow this article if any part of it violates these relevant policies. If you still do, well I warned you.
By taking these proactive measures, users can often resolve common issues on their own, facilitating a smoother collaboration with the IT department. This approach not only saves time but also empowers users to better understand the management of their digital environment. This will generate a more efficient technology support ecosystem.
Now, if none of this was helpful, go ahead, call the IT guy.
