Computer won’t start

Start with the simple things: power and cables. Most "dead" computers turn out to be a loose plug or a monitor that is switched off.

Guided fix

    All the steps on one page

    1. 1

      Check the power

      Check the power cable is pushed firmly into the computer and the wall socket, and that the socket is switched on. If it is plugged into a UPS or extension board, make sure that is on too. Try another socket.

    2. 2

      Laptop? Charge it first

      Plug in the charger and check its light comes on. Leave it charging for 15 minutes, then try again.

    3. 3

      Check the monitor

      Make sure the monitor is switched on and its cable is firmly connected at both ends. Press a key or move the mouse to wake it.

    4. 4

      Hold the power button

      Hold the power button for 10 seconds until the computer switches off. Wait a moment, then press it once to switch it on.

    When to contact us

    • Error messages and restart loops need an engineer. Take a photo of the message if you can, and raise a ticket.
    • Those were the safe checks. Raise a ticket and an engineer will take it from here, remotely or on site.