Few things are more alarming than pressing your computer's power button and getting... nothing. Before you assume the worst, try these troubleshooting steps. Many 'dead' computers have simple fixes.
Step 1: Check the Power Connection
This sounds obvious, but it's the cause of many 'won't turn on' situations. Verify the power cable is firmly connected to both the computer and the wall outlet. If using a power strip, make sure it's switched on.
For laptops, try removing the battery (if removable) and running on AC power alone. Also try a different outlet — outlets can fail without any visible sign.
Step 2: Look for Signs of Life
When you press power, do any lights come on? Do you hear fans spinning, even briefly? Does the screen show anything at all, even momentarily? These clues help narrow down the problem.
If you see lights and hear fans but get no display, the issue is likely display-related, not a complete failure. Try connecting an external monitor if available.
Step 3: Try a Hard Reset
Unplug the power cable, remove the battery (for laptops), then press and hold the power button for 30 seconds. This drains residual electricity from the components. Reconnect power and try again.
This simple step fixes a surprising number of startup problems by clearing stuck power states.
Step 4: Check for Beep Codes
Listen carefully when you power on. Many computers emit beep patterns that indicate specific problems. One beep usually means normal startup. Multiple beeps or patterns often indicate RAM, graphics card, or motherboard issues.
Search your computer's make and model plus 'beep codes' to decode what the pattern means.
Step 5: Test Basic Components
For desktops, try reseating the RAM — remove it and firmly reinstall it. Loose RAM is a common cause of startup failures. Do the same with graphics cards if you have a dedicated one.
If you recently installed new hardware, remove it and try starting with only original components. New hardware can sometimes cause compatibility issues.
When to Call a Professional
If none of these steps work, or if you hear clicking sounds from a hard drive, smell something burning, or see visible damage, it's time to call for help. Continuing to troubleshoot at this point risks making things worse.
The most common professional fixes for this issue are power supply replacement, motherboard repair, or in some cases, simply a component that came loose during transport. I can usually diagnose the specific issue within an hour.