Often times when you receive an error, or your shared drives are gone, you are unable to print, don't have internet access, programs aren't opening, your computer is just slower than usual, or many other random issues that can occur while using a computer, a restart or "reboot" will solve the issue. It is an important first step in the troubleshooting process and will fix a lot of computer issues quickly and on the spot. It is important to note that restarting or rebooting your computer is different from logging off/out, so if you've logged out and are still experiencing issues, try restarting instead.
Step-by-step guide
Windows 7
Before restarting your computer, you should close any open applications making sure to save your work if prompted.
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- On the physical computer itself, press and hold the power button
- Continue to hold the power button until the computer shuts down (it may take up to 5 full seconds or longer)
- Let go of the power button
- Wait 5 more seconds and press (do not hold) the power button like normal and the machine will start back up
Apple OS X
Again before restarting your computer remember to save any work and close open programs.
- Click on the in the upper left of the screen
- Highlight "Restart...." and click.
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You can also use the "Magic Finger" option of powering off. Againonlyafter attempting to restart properly. |
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To help avoid needing to restart during the day while you are working, instead of just "logging out" or "locking" your computer when you leave to go home, try to get in the habit of restarting. You don't have to wait for your computer to finish coming back up since it will automatically log you out during the reboot process. Simply click restart and go. |
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