If your computer is on the fritz, don't assume all is lost.

You push the power switch to turn on your computer...and nothing happens. Even in this worst-case scenario, you can work through a number of troubleshooting options—so don't panic yet.

When your desktop or laptop refuses to start, that means either the hardware or the software is having trouble. Identifying the problem's root cause isn't an exact science, but if you troubleshoot with a methodical approach, then you can rule out many potential issues one by one.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps you need to get a non-starting computer up and running again. We'll also explain when it might be best to call in the professionals. If all else fails, we'll tell you how to retrieve your data from a dead device.