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IT Troubleshooting Tips
Our Top Troubleshooting Tips
Your Application is Not Responding
- Make sure other applications you are using are not having the same issue.
- Check with your colleagues to see if they are having the same issue as you are.
- Closeout the application and quit/force the application. You can do this by holding “Ctrl”+”Alt”+”Delete” then selecting “Task Manager” then select the application from the list then hit “End Task”.
- If this does not resolve your issue, try rebooting your system as well.
- If that does not work, contact our help desk at 512.522.3991
Your Mac is Running Slow
- If your mac is running slow, you can view what is running on your Mac to see if it is slowing your computer down. Go to “Finder”, then select “Utilities” under the “Go” menu and select “Activity Monitor”.
- If that does not work, then the fact your system is running out of storage could cause this issue. To figure out how much storage your system has, go to the Apple menu and click “About This Mac”. Then click the “Storage” tab to see how much free space is left on your system.
- If this does not work, then reset “NVRAM/PRAM” on your system. To do this, shutdown your Mac completely and then turn you Mac back on and them immediately hold down the “Option + “Command” + “P” and “R” keys. Do not release these keys until you hear the startup sound twice or see the Apple logo is gone for the second time.
- If this does not work, then contact our help desk at 512.522.3991
Your Windows Computer is Running Slow
- Check Task Manager to see if there are any programs or “Processes” that are using up too many resources. To do this, select “Ctrl + Alt + Delete” at the same time. Then click on “Task Manager” and check to see if you have any programs or processes running that you are not using. If you see any, then select “End Process”.
- Another issue that could be causing your system to be running slow is your Windows system is running out of space. To check your storage usage, go to “File Explorer” under the “Start Menu”. In the left hand side of the menu, select “This PC” or “My Computer”. Under “Devices and Drivers, you will be able to see all of the devices and what storage is available for each space.
- If this does not work, then reboot your system to see if this helps.
- If this does not work, then contact our Help Desk at 512.522.3991
External Monitor Connected to MyLaptop Will Not Display
If you use a laptop with a docking station, then make sure your laptop is properly docked and then reboot your system.
WIFI (Wireless) is Not Working
If your wireless connection is not working, then press “FN + “F5” to turn the WiFi radio on. Some laptops have a physical WiFi switch on the side that can be pressed/slid to turn on the WiFi connection on.
Unable to Connect Via VPN
- Restart your VPN software
- If that does not work, double-check your internet connection is actually working. Open up your browser and surf to other websites to check this.
- If you have antivirus on your laptop that has a local firewall, disable this. If you do not have a local firewall, then restart your home router/firewall and see if this resolves your issue.
- Sometimes updates can affect your software so if you know how, try re-installing your VPN software.
- If your issues persists then please contact our help desk at 512.522.3991
How to Protect Yourself From Phishing Attacks
• “Think Before You Click”
• Be cautious of unexpected emails or messages asking for sensitive information or requesting urgent action.
• Verify the sender’s identity by checking email addresses and looking for any signs of impersonation or spoofing.
• Avoid clicking suspicious links.
• Hover over links to preview the URL before clicking, and only visit trusted websites.
• Keep up to date with the latest phishing tactics and common red flags
How to Secure Your Passwords and Accounts
• Use strong, unique passwords: mix of letters, numbers, and symbols, and avoid using the same password for multiple accounts.
• Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).
• Beware emails pertaining to resetting your password.
• Never share passwords via email or text, and be wary of unsolicited requests for login credentials.
How to Safeguard Your Devices and Data
• Install OS and app updates whenever they become available to address security vulnerabilities and protect against malware.
• Use antivirus and anti-malware software and run regular scans to detect and remove threats.
• Encrypt sensitive data to protect confidential information stored on devices or transmitted over networks.
• Back up your data regularly to secure locations to mitigate the impact of ransomware attacks or data loss incidents.
Stay Vigilant and Informed
• Educate yourself and your team on cybersecurity best practices and emerging threats.
• Promptly report any suspicious emails, messages, or activities to your IT support team or cybersecurity provider.
• Whenever in doubt, ask IT before entering your password or responding to a suspicious email.