Constant computer reboots

Q: Lately I’ve had to reboot my computer at least once a day. Is that normal and if not, what could be causing the computer to need constant rebooting?

A: The first thing I would want to know is the reason you are having to reboot the computer. Is it because the computer is locking up or because it is running excessively slow?

If the computer is locking up (keyboard or mouse are unresponsive, windows stop responding) you may have a virus or spyware that is wreaking havoc with the computer. The first step I would take would be to make sure you have up-to-date anti-virus and anti-spyware software installed and do full scans on your computer using the software. If you do not have this type of software, McAfee, Symantec and Microsoft all offer product suites that can help you.

If the computer is running excessively slow, it may be that you do not have enough memory installed on your computer to run the applications you want to run. In this case, I would recommend a memory upgrade. Start by calling the manufacturer of your computer so they can help you decide what upgrade options are available to you. Make sure you weigh the cost of a memory upgrade against the cost of a brand new computer with more memory pre-installed. You might be surprised at how little the difference in cost is.

This post was originally broadcast Friday, January 19, 2007 on “Tech Talk with Noobie”, a weekly radio show on WCBK 102.3 FM in Martinsville, Indiana. Tech Talk with Noobie airs every Friday at 11:30 a.m. If you have a question you would like Noobie to answer on the air, simply e-mail your question to .