Computer Repair – Diamond Certified for 18 Years

Computer Repair - Diamond Certified For 18 Years

We know that when your computer, desktop, or laptop breaks you need quick and easy computer repair, and you need experts that are affordable, convenient, and reliable.

You use your computer for work, home, email, browsing, chatting, and much more. When you need high-quality computer repair, you need it done quickly and properly. ClickAway tech support started in 2002. We are the original Bay Area computer technology company and our award-winning expertise is reflected in our large, loyal customer base of over 850,000 In San Jose, Ca, and beyond.

Call us for a free basic computer repair diagnostic. We have been a top Diamond Certified service provider for the past 19 years.

We Guarantee All Our Computer Services

Some of the computer problems we solve

compuer is overheating due to dusk accumulated inside - see fans coated with white powder

Before/After PC overheating due to dust.

expanding batteries before and after

Before/After battery going bad and expanding.

retina replacement and screen updateing

Before/After Retina coating repair.

Frequent Computer Problems

Computer Making Noise:

Why is my computer making noise? Why is that? No PC is truly silent, but your computer shouldn’t be noisier than your lawnmower. If you have to turn up your music just to drown out the whirring or grinding noises your computer makes, you may want to look into that—it could be the first signal of some serious problems.

A lot of noise coming from your computer is generally a sign of either hardware malfunction or a noisy fan. A loud computer fan happens when your computer is generating a lot of heat, which causes your computer’s fans to leap into action, forcing the hot air out of your PC so that cooler air can cycle in. Loud computer fans can also be caused by dust building up in your PC, which negatively impacts its performance.

Hard drives often make noise just before they fail, so you may want to back up information just in case, and fans are very easy to replace. Call us at 800.960.9030.
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computer making noise

Clicking or grinding – computer making noise

Let’s start with the most worrisome sound. If your computer starts to click, grind, or make any sort of low-pitched buzzing noise, you should stop what you’re doing and check the hard drive. This sound could indicate a dying disk. Do not ignore this sound.

To check your drive’s health, ClickAway can do this quickly or try a third-party tool. Fire up the program, click on each of your drives in the menu, and make sure they’re all listed as “Good.” If it indicates your drive is anything less than that, you should back up all your data as soon as possible. You may still have some time to do so—occasionally a drive marked “Caution” can still run for years, but if it’s making noises, the drive’s death might be close.

Once all your files are safe, consider replacing your drive with an SSD—not only will it likely last longer, but it’ll make your computer feel much faster. If your hard drives are healthy, take the incident as a warning and avoid any unpleasant surprises by backing up your data regularly, because as it happens to any living creature, all hard drives will die one day.

One you’ve ruled out your hard drive as the culprit, you’ll need to dig a little deeper to find the source of that clicking sound. If your computer still has a DVD drive, then it could be in the process of failing, and needs repair or replacement.

Category: computer repair

Trouble shooting why is my computer running so slow?

Below are steps users can follow to help speed up a computer or determine why is my computer running so slow. It should be noted that this page only covers an overall slow computer and not a computer that starts slow or has a slow Internet connection.

You can often fix the problem simply by cleaning the hard disk of unwanted files. You can also install a firewall, anti-virus and anti-spyware tools, and schedule regular registry scans. External hard drives are great storage solutions for overtaxed CPU’s, and will help your computer run faster. Call ClickAway at 800.960.9030.make-appointment

Here steps to take – why is my computer running so slow

Reboot

If your computer has not been rebooted recently, make sure to reboot it before following any of the steps below. Rebooting the computer can fix many problems and is an easy first step.

Background programs

One of the most common reasons for a slow computer is programs running in the background. Remove or disable any TSRs and startup programs that automatically start each time the computer boots. If you have an antivirus scanner on the computer, spyware protection program, or another security utility, make sure it’s not scanning your computer in the background. If a scan is in progress, it decreases the overall performance of your computer. If this is the case, allow the scan to complete, and the computer’s performance should improve.

Delete temp files

As a computer runs programs, temporary files are stored on the hard drive. Deleting these temp files help improve computer performance.

Free hard drive space

Verify that there is at least 200-500MB of free hard drive space. This available space allows the computer to have room for the swap file to increase in size and give room for temporary files.

why is my computer running so slow

Bad, corrupted or fragmented hard drive

Check the hard drive for errors

On a Windows computer, run ScanDisk, chkdsk, or something equivalent to verify there is nothing physically wrong with the computer’s hard drive.

Scan for viruses

If your computer is infected with one or more viruses, it may run more slowly. If your computer doesn’t have an antivirus program installed, run Trend Micro’s free Housecall online utility to scan and remove viruses on your computer. We also recommend you install an antivirus program for active protection against viruses.

Scan for malware

Today, spyware and other malware is a big cause of many computer problems, including slower performance. Even if an antivirus scanner is installed on the computer, we recommend running a malware scan as well. Use the free version of Malwarebytes to scan your computer for malware.

Hardware conflicts

Verify that the Device Manager has no conflicts. If any exist, resolve these issues as they could be causing your problem.

How to Identify problems in the Windows Device Manager.

Update the operating system

To update a computer running Microsoft Windows, run Windows Update.

To update a macOS computer, run Software Update. To upgrade the operating system, use the App Store.

Disable browser plug-ins

If your computer runs especially slow when you’re using your web browser, considering disabling any browser plug-ins, add-ons, or extensions.

Category: computer repair

Trouble shooting a blank computer screen

Why do I have a blank computer screen even though it’s turned on? If your computer monitor displays a black screen with no picture when you turn on your computer, the following steps may help you troubleshoot or repair the problem.

The main culprits of a blank computer screen on Windows 10 are a malfunctioning screen, a bad video card or a bad connection. Other causes include a corrupted system file, which manifests with a blinking prompt and a blank screen, a faulty display adapter, or your computerjust crashed due to a motherboard failure.

There may be an issue with the connection between the computer and the screen. First, check to see if the monitor is plugged into a power point and that the connection between the monitor and computer hard drive is secure. If the problem is on a laptop, then you may need to get a professional to fix it as some of the internal wires may be worn. Call us at 800.960.9030.make-appointment

blank computer screen

Other Trouble Shooting Steps Or Call ClickAway

Monitor is not on

It may seem obvious, but first, make sure the monitor is turned on. If you don’t see a power LED (blue, green, or orange light) on the monitor’s front or bottom, press the power button again. If no light comes on after several attempts, proceed to the next section.

Computer is asleep

If you stepped away from the computer for a bit and returned to a black screen, the computer is likely asleep. Try moving your mouse, clicking the mouse buttons, or pressing any key (e.g., spacebar) to wake it up. If none of those actions work, press the power button.

Loose or improper connections

The following steps help you ensure the monitor is connected correctly to the computer.

Try a different cable

If your monitor is getting power, but you still don’t see an image, the data cable may be the issue. Try using a different DVI, HDMI, or DisplayPort cable with your monitor.

Turn up the brightness and contrast

If you’re able to view your monitor’s settings menu even though the screen is blank, you likely need to turn up the brightness and contrast.

Hardware issue

If you have followed the recommendations above and still have the same issue, your computer may have either a bad monitor, video card (graphics card), or motherboard. Various issues can cause the Black Screen of Death. The most common causes are these:

  • Incomplete Windows 10 installation
  • Windows Update
  • Software and driver errors
  • Display issues
  • Overheating
  • Power supply problems

Fix the Black Screen of Death With These Tricks

The Black Screen of Death is usually caused by a software glitch (or Windows Update) but can often be repaired. Black screens that occur seemingly at random are usually the result of a more serious hardware problem. This will require component repair or replacement. Whatever the case, there is almost always a solution.

 

Category: computer repair

Are you wondering why your computer won’t start? If your computer won’t start, don’t panic (yet). Here are some troubleshooting steps to take when your computer fails to boot correctly. A computer that suddenly shuts off or has difficulty starting up could have a failing power supply. Check that the computer is plugged into the power point properly and, if that doesn’t work, test the power point with another working device to confirm whether or not there is adequate power. Call us at 800.960.9030.
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Computer Won’t Start?

Is your computer not turning on at all? No fans are running, no lights are blinking, and nothing appears on screen? In these cases you probably have a power issue. Let’s discuss some troubleshooting ideas to answer the question, “why is my computer not turning on?”

Unplug your computer and plug it directly into a wall outlet you know is working, rather than a power strip or battery backup that may be failing. Make sure the power switch on the back of your power supply is flipped on, and if the outlet is connected to a light switch, make sure that switch is turned on too.

If you’re using a laptop, make sure your charger is plugged in properly and to the correct port—if it charges via USB-C, only some of the USB ports may actually provide power. A failing power supply can often cause boot problems, even if the fans and lights do turn on. So if the troubleshooting steps in this guide fail you, it might be time to replace your power supply.

Check the Monitor

If the computer sounds like it’s turning on but you don’t see anything on the screen, the computer may be booting and the monitor just isn’t showing an image. Check to make sure your monitor is plugged in (again, try a wall outlet instead of a power strip), turned on, and set to the right input using the buttons on the side or bottom. You’ll also want to make sure the cable connecting your monitor to your PC hasn’t come loose.

If you’re using a laptop, this may sound silly, but make sure the brightness is turned up. I’ve had multiple people ask me for help with a computer that won’t start, only to find the brightness was turned all the way down causing a black screen.

If these fixes don’t help, try plugging your PC into another monitor if you have one—or even a TV—and see if Windows shows up there. If it does, your monitor may be dead, and you need to buy a new one.

Does it Beep?

When your computer boots, it may make a beeping sound—usually a single beep means everything is A-okay. But if the computer is having trouble starting up, it may make a series of beeps (kind of like Morse code) that tell you what’s wrong.

Check the manual for your PC (or the PC’s motherboard, if you built it yourself) and figure out what the beeps mean. If you don’t have your manual, you can probably find it on the manufacturer’s website.

If your computer doesn’t beep at all, you might be out of luck—though some desktop PCs may have a header on the motherboard where you can install a cheap speaker, or might even have a digital display with a numerical code that corresponds to an error message.

Other Trouble Shooting Steps When Computer Won’t Start

  • Unplug unnecessary USB drives
  • Reseat the Hardware Inside
  • Explore the BIOS
  • Scan for Viruses
  • Boot Into Safe Mode
  • Roll back to the previous Windows version
  • Check Your Hard Drive for Corruption
  • Repair a Busted Bootloader
  • Test the Drive in Another PC and Pray

These are all steps ClickAway can do for you in our stops, in your office or help you via remote access. We always start with a free diagnosis so you know what you’re getting into first.

Category: computer repair

Troubleshooting – Why does my computer keep freezing

When you computer freezes, you may have no other option than to reboot and risk losing any unsaved work. Freezes can be a sign of insufficient ram, registry conflicts, corrupt or missing files, or spyware. Press and hold the power button until the computer turns off, then restart it and get to work cleaning up the system so that it doesn’t freeze again. Call ClickAway at 800.960.9030.
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Make sure the fan is running and that there is proper ventilation. Check the software you are using, it may need to be updated or restarted. Third-party software is often the culprit for computer freezes. … If your operating system or software programs have updates pending, allow these to run and restart your computer. Let’s discuss in more detail.

why does my computer keep freezing

Top 9 Reasons for “Why does my computer keep freezing.”

It is important to identify the actual causes for why does my computer keep freezing. The 9 most common causes of why Windows 10, Windows 8 or Windows 7 keeps freezing are shown below.

  1. Too Many Programs Opening

    Every program in your computer requires certain amount of both internal and external (hardware) resources to function. If multiple programs are running concurrently, your computer might not have enough memory or computing power to support all of them.

    In this situation, you should right-click Task Manager, choose Task Manager, click the Processes, find the program that is frozen and click End Task. It is recommended to run programs you need at a time.

  2. Driver Corruption or Errors

    Drivers are used for communications between hardware devices and the operating system. Outdated or damaged drivers could be reasons to why your Windows keeps freezing. Therefore, you should make sure that your drives are always updated.

  3. Overheating

    Excess heat can slow down a computer, eventually causing computer freeze. If the temperature is high enough, it can even damage the integrated circuit of your system processor and render it unusable.

    To avoid this, please make sure your computer is thoroughly vented. Computer casing should be used for harsh environments.

  4. Insufficient RAM

    If your computer freezes frequently and regularly, you might have insufficient RAM. You can consider upgrading your RAM or reinstalling the operating system to solve this issue.

  5. BIOS Settings

    Modifying BIOS settings may put the system in the freeze mode. Resetting the BIOS to default could fix your freezing problem.

  6. Faulty External Devices

    Faulty USB or other external devices such as the mouse and keyboard can cause the computer to freeze. You can try connecting one device at a time to investigate the root cause. Also try updating the USB device drivers to fix this computer keeps freezing problem.

  7. Computer Viruses

    Viruses could also be the main cause for a computer to freeze. You should perform an antivirus check regularly.

  8. Corrupted or Missing System Files

    According to our investigations, we found that Windows 10 / Windows 7 keeps freezing due to corrupted or missing system files.

  9. Software Errors

    Regardless of the vendor, any third-party software could be freezing your computer.

Category: computer repair

The reason why are my downloads so slow could be related to a hard drive issue. Perhaps it’s near full or could be damaged. Try uploading or downloading with a wired connection if possible. Sometimes your ISP will be the cause of slow uploads or downloads. With Cable internet the download speed is often much faster than your upload speed.

More detail – Why are my downloads so slow?

Many things can contribute to slow download speed and figuring out the underlying problem to your slow connection can sometimes be tricky. While it may be a simple fix like checking your internet speed or restarting your computer, some solutions are more complex.

Download speed refers to how many megabits (Mbps) per second it takes your server to download data to your device. Files, videos, images, and text are all forms of downloads. Any applications you use on your devices, like Spotify, Instagram, and YouTube, all require you to download data.

According to the Broadband Speed Guide from the Federal Communication Commission (FCC), download speeds of at least 25 Mbps are considered good download speeds. But how can you increase download speed if yours is slow?

Call ClickAway for either computer repair or network repair help at 800.960.9030.
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Category: computer repair
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With Every Computer Repair You Get:

Free Basic Diagnostics

The first thing our skilled technicians do is perform a free basic diagnostic exam to determine exactly what is wrong with your computer, desktop, or laptop. Once we have found the root of the problem, our tech support will explain what is wrong and provide repair options, including cost and time estimates. If you choose to proceed, they will get started on your computer and laptop repair right away. Our diagnostic is high quality and saves you a lot of time and agony. It really is how computer repairing shops  near me should be.

Expert Service

One thing you can be assured of with ClickAway, your computer and laptop are in good hands. Our trained technicians have experience with all computer brands. We have repair services including cooling fans, cracked screens, ports, batteries, RAM, hard drives and more. The technician will keep you updated on the progress of your device throughout the process. No matter what brand of computer, desktop, or laptop you have or your repair needs, you can be assured we will fix it quickly and professionally.

Low Price Guarantee

ClickAway has always offered the lowest price guarantee on all computer, desktop, and laptop repairs. If you find a lower published price on the same repair we will match or beat that price. All of our repairs come with a 90-day guarantee so you can rest assured. If you are looking for the most affordable computer repair near me, desktop repair, or laptop repair near me, come to ClickAway.

Computer Repair - Helping You or Your Business Be More Productive

ClickAway is proud to be your choice for Northern California’s best computer repair services for individuals and businesses. As such, we offer a wide range of services such as virus removal, data recovery, hard drive replacements, and SSD upgrades, computer tune-ups, computer trade-ins and custom builds. For home, personal, and business needs, you can turn to ClickAway's 6 computer repair shops near me to get expert advice, professional service, and unbeatable prices. opens in a new windowRead how ClickAway technicians get it done right and save you more.

Top Computer Repair Shops Near Me

Finding the best computer repair near you is easy by bookmarking ClickAway.  Furthermore, our certified technicians know that you or your business need solutions, not salesmanship, and you need it fast so our staff is ready to answer any questions you have. We provide a free diagnosis before you pay a dime. As a result, you'll know if that old PC is worth the upgrade or it's time for a new device.

Visit one of our 5 computer repair locations near you, whether in San Jose, CA or elsewhere in the Bay Area. Because we do repair and setup services in your home or business, we pride ourselves on honesty, dedication, teamwork, and knowledge. From a home office to a growing enterprise, we make sure that you have what you need now, and are ready to face the future.

We're Technology Specialists So You Don't Have To Be

See the many accolades our technicians have earned, and many are consecutive year awards. And you can also read customer reviews from multiple sources by technicians such as Ardeshir (Eddy) Zandian.