Disclaimer
CommonFixes gives general guidance for common computer problems. It is not a repair service, and reading a guide does not create any professional relationship between us.
Back up first
Before repairs that touch your drive, your operating system or your files, copy anything important to another drive or to cloud storage. We will remind you inside the guides that need it, but the responsibility is yours.
Opening your computer
Cleaning fans, replacing drives and changing thermal paste can affect your warranty. Check your warranty terms first, and unplug the machine and remove the battery before you open anything.
Liquid, smoke and burning smells
Switch the computer off immediately, unplug it, and do not turn it back on. These are safety situations, not troubleshooting situations.
Scams
CommonFixes will never ask you to phone a support number, install remote access software, or pay to unlock your computer. Any page or pop-up asking you to do those things is a scam, wherever it appears.