ACLC COLLEGE OF TACLOBAN

359 Real Street Main Campus Tacloban City

Application Development and Emerging Technology

Maintaining and Repairing Computer

Systems and Networks

Reporters:

Aruy, Renielyn
Bulilan, Iayanna Angel
Conopio, Lloyd Francis
Dizon, Althea Jean
Lacorte, Shila Mae
Mirande, Eunice
Oros, Dempsy
Raga, Jay Ar
Suvillaga, Loise
Tobis, Oscar

Golez, Niezan

Computing Fundamentals | 1
ACLC COLLEGE OF TACLOBAN
359 Real Street Main Campus Tacloban City
Application Development and Emerging Technology

Lesson Outlines:

1. Troubleshooting Hardware Issues

Diagnosing Common Hardware Problems
Using Diagnostic Tools (e.g., POST cards, multimeters)
Replacing Faulty Components
2. Performing System Maintenance
Regular Software Updates and Patching
Preventive Maintenance for Hardware
System Optimization Techniques
3. Repairing Network Connections
Identifying Network Faults
Reconfiguring Network Devices
Replacing Network Hardware
4. Backup and Restore Data

Computing Fundamentals | 1
ACLC COLLEGE OF TACLOBAN
359 Real Street Main Campus Tacloban City
Application Development and Emerging Technology

Maintaining and Repairing Computer Systems and

Networks
Preventive maintenance involves checking, cleaning, and swapping out worn parts,
materials, and systems on a regular basis. This helps stop unexpected breakdowns in
computer systems and networks. Putting good preventive maintenance plans into action
keeps things running, makes equipment last longer, and cuts down on time when
systems aren't working.

Troubleshooting Hardware Issues

1. Diagnosing Common Hardware Problems

System crashes at sluggish speeds, or the computer not starting at all often point to
hardware troubles. Spotting these signs quick might stop worse problems.

 System Crashes & Overheating: Often caused by dust buildup, poor ventilation,
or failing cooling systems.

(When a computer gets too hot, it can shut down or crash. This often
happens because dust builds up, air vents get blocked, or cooling fans stop
working right. Bad airflow or old thermal paste can also make things too hot,
which hurts the CPU and GPU. To fix this, clean your computer and make
sure air can flow.)

 Power Supply Issues: A faulty PSU can lead to random shutdowns or failure to
power on.

(A bad power supply unit (PSU) can make your computer shut down or not
turn on at all. Power that goes up and down loose wires, or a PSU that's
dying can make your computer work. To protect your hardware from power
problems, use a good PSU and a backup power supply (UPS).)

 Motherboard Failures: Symptoms include no power, continuous beeping

sounds, or failed POST.

(If your motherboard is broken, you might see no power, hear constant
beeping, or your computer might not start up right. Bad capacitors, short
circuits, or physical damage can break your motherboard. To fix it, look for
burnt parts, reset the BIOS, or you might need to get a new motherboard.)

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359 Real Street Main Campus Tacloban City
Application Development and Emerging Technology

 RAM Failures: Signs include frequent system freezes, blue screen errors, or
failure to boot.

(Faulty RAM sticks can lead to regular computer crashes, lockups blue
screens (BSOD), or startup failures. To fix RAM problems, you can run
memory tests, take out and put back in RAM modules, or swap out bad
ones.)

 Hard Drive Malfunctions: Slow performance, corrupted files, and clicking noises
indicate potential drive failure, use S.M.A.R.T. tools to check drive health.

(A computer damaged files and strange clicking sounds often point to a hard
drive on its last legs. When the drive's parts wear out or some areas go bad,
you might lose your data if you don't act fast. Tools that use S.M.A.R.T. (Self-
Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology) can check how healthy your
drive is and help you spot trouble saving your data.)

2. Using Diagnostic Tools

Software systems for diagnosis are super useful for figuring out and fixing
computer parts problems.

 POST (Power-On Self-Test) Cards: Used to diagnose motherboard

and BIOS-related errors by displaying error codes during boot-up.

(These are diagnostic cards you plug in to spot issues with

motherboards and BIOS. When a computer starts up, the BIOS runs a
bunch of hardware checks. If something's wrong, the POST card
shows error codes. Repair techs look at these codes to figure out
what's broken, like bad RAM, CPU, or parts on the motherboard.)

 Multimeters: Measure voltage and test power supply stability to

ensure proper electrical flow.

(Multimeters check voltage, current, and resistance to make sure a

computer's power supply is steady. A power supply unit (PSU) that's
on the fritz can make the whole system act up so testing what it puts
out keeps the electricity flowing right. You can also use multimeters to
check if cables are connected and to find short circuits in motherboard
parts.)

 Hardware Monitoring Software: Applications like HWMonitor and

CPU-Z provide real-time insights into CPU temperature, voltage, and
fan speeds.

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359 Real Street Main Campus Tacloban City
Application Development and Emerging Technology

(Software like HWMonitor, CPU-Z, and SpeedFan keep an eye on

system parts in real time. These tools show you important stuff like
how hot the CPU and GPU are how fast the fans are spinning, and
what the voltage levels are. Keeping tabs on how the hardware's
doing helps stop things from getting too hot and keeps the system
running.)

 BIOS/UEFI Diagnostic Tools: Built-in system firmware tools that test

hardware components before the operating system loads.

(Today's computers come with self-check tools already in the

BIOS/UEFI firmware. These programs do quick checks on the
hardware before the OS boots up. They test stuff like memory sticks,
storage drives, and the processor. When they find a problem, you
might see error alerts or hear beeps that tell you what part's not
working right.)

3. Replacing Faulty Components

Switching out is a bad habit, needs to take care to dodge static harm and make
sure the pieces fit right together.

 Static-Sensitive Components: Use anti-static wrist straps and mats

when handling electronic components.

(RAM, CPUs, and other motherboard parts don't like static. Slap on an
anti-static wrist strap and plop your gear on anti-static mats to dodge
electrostatic discharge (ESD) ruinin' your hardware. Stick to a dry
place with no static when you work and grab those parts by their
edges alright.)

 Step-by-Step Replacement:
o Power Supply (PSU): Disconnect and replace it if there are power
fluctuations or no boot issues.

(Power hiccups PCs that just won't turn on, or ones that peace out
could mean a bunk PSU. Yank out all them cables, chuck the old
PSU, and shove in a new one that's got the right power and plugs.)

o RAM Modules & Expansion Cards: Swap faulty RAM sticks if

experiencing system crashes or slow performance.

(When your computer often freezes up, throws up a blue screen of

death (BSOD), or just crawls along super slow bad RAM could be
messing things up. Yank out those dud RAM sticks and swap them in

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359 Real Street Main Campus Tacloban City
Application Development and Emerging Technology

right making sure they click into place. And for stuff like graphics or
sound cards, you gotta make sure they're all the way in the
motherboard.)

o Hard Drive (HDD/SSD): Replace drives showing signs of bad

sectors or read/write failures.

(Bad sectors mistakes in reading or writing, or a clicking sound could

mean a hard drive's about to crash. Save your must-keep files, yank
out the dud drive, and slot in a fresh one. Once it's in there, slap your
system back on or load up your backup.)

o CPU & Cooling System: If experiencing overheating or boot

failures, reseat or replace the CPU and apply new thermal paste.

(Whew, if your machine keeps getting too hot shutting down a lot, or
not starting up right, the CPU might be crying for help or your cooling's
just not cutting it. Gotta get a new CPU? Take your time pulling out
the old chip, pop the new one in place making sure it fits snug in its
home, and don't skimp on new thermal paste to keep that heat flow
in check.)

 Post-Replacement Testing: After installation, boot the system and use

diagnostic tools to ensure the new components function correctly.

(Once you've got the new parts in place, crank up your system and
watch to make sure everything's running smooth. You gotta grab
those diagnostic tools to keep an eye on the heat levels electric juice,
and how the whole thing's chugging along. Hitting a snag? Better
double-check all those hookups and make sure everything's snug
where it belongs.)

Performing System Maintenance

1. Regular Software Updates and Patching

Keeping software updated is crucial for security, stability, and performance.

 Importance of Updates: Protects against malware, fixes bugs, and

improves efficiency.

(To prevent malicious attacks, routine software updates deliver

important security patches that fend off malware, viruses, and
cyberattacks. Updates often enhance the user experience by fixing

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359 Real Street Main Campus Tacloban City
Application Development and Emerging Technology

bugs, resolving new errors, crashes, and improving performance.

Additionally, other features and optimizations are also implemented.)

 Types of Updates:
o Security Patches: Fix vulnerabilities to prevent cyber threats.

(Aid in resolving security risks that are often taken advantage of by

attackers, reducing the chances of malware infection and data
breaches.)

o Bug Fixes: Resolve system errors and crashes.

(Eliminate known problems that cause slow, glitchy, and poorly

functioning software, to improve system performance.)

o Feature Enhancements: Introduce new functionalities for better

user experience.

(New capabilities aside, improved adaptability, and optimization of the

software enhances its overall functionality.)

 Automatic vs. Manual Updates:

o Automatic Updates: Ensures timely updates but may consume
bandwidth.

(An automated solution that maintains and updates software without

user input. Although it may run in the background, it can consume
system and bandwidth resources.)

o Manual Updates: Allows control over what gets installed but

requires regular checks.

(User has the option to select and install updates for review.
Regular intervention is needed to make sure important patches are
applied on schedule.)

 Patch Management Strategies: Enterprises use centralized tools like

WSUS (Windows Server Update Services) or third-party patch
management solutions to deploy updates across multiple systems.

(Patch management tools are a big deal for businesses and

organizations that want to update many systems all at once. Using
stuff like WSUS—short for Windows Server Update Services—and
third-party options is super helpful when you gotta roll out updates in a
big-time company environment. When you automate all that patch
managing, you cut down on downtime and make sure every device
stays safe and current.)

 Risks of Outdated Software: Increases exposure to cyberattacks,

system instability, and incompatibility with newer applications.

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Application Development and Emerging Technology

(Being behind on patching ups the risk of nasty cyber stuff like
ransomware, phishing, and stealing sensitive data. Your systems
might get all wonky, crash a lot, and not work as fast. And if you're not
careful older software might not play nice with the new gear and apps,
which could kill your workflow.)

2. Preventive Maintenance for Hardware

Regular maintenance extends hardware lifespan and prevents failures.

 Routine Inspections & Cleaning: Check for dust buildup, loose connections,
and signs of wear.

(You gotta check your hardware to see if there's a pile-up of dust

loose bits, or signs of components wearing out. If you let dust and
junk gather, things can get way too hot and that’ll mess up your
hardware and slow things down. Make sure to keep your computer's
housing, air holes, and the bits that keep it cool super tidy for the best
air moving action.)

 Managing Dust Accumulation: Use compressed air and cooling fans to

prevent overheating.

(Blow away the dust mites from your cooling buddies and power juice
pathways using a shot of compressed air. Make sure those cooling
buddies aren't slacking to stop your high-powered gear from boiling
over. Put those computing brains in spots with loads of fresh air to cut
down on dust bunnies and keep the breeze flowing.)

 Checking & Securing Cable Connections: Loose cables can cause

intermittent failures in power and data transmission.

(You got loose electric ropes or info-tethers and you'll be dealing

with hit-or-miss nightmares, system freak-outs, or stone-cold
peripherals. Every so often, make sure to double-check and
plug everything back tight for bits like memory boxes electric
lifelines, and computer backbones. Get your wires in line and
out of the way to sidestep the oopsies of yanking them out.)

 Testing Power Supplies: Use a multimeter to check for stable voltage

output and avoid sudden shutdowns.

(An unreliable power source might make your computer shut off
without warning and mess with its performance. Grab a
multimeter to test the voltage and make sure your power is
dependable. Swap out old or weak PSUs to keep your other
parts safe from harm.)

 Monitoring Hard Drives with S.M.A.R.T.: Tools like CrystalDiskInfo or

BIOS diagnostics help detect drive failures before they occur.

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359 Real Street Main Campus Tacloban City
Application Development and Emerging Technology

(Hard drives aren’t forever—they wear out as time goes on. Spotting
issues early can save your files. Tools for checking up on your hard
drive, like CrystalDiskInfo or those BIOS checks, can flag up trouble
before it’s too late. Notice signs like bad sectors dragging speed, or
weird noises? Better save your stuff elsewhere and get a new hard
drive.)

3. System Optimization Techniques

Optimizing the system improves performance and efficiency.

 Disk Cleanup & Defragmentation: Removes unnecessary files and

organizes disk storage for faster data access.

(Disk Cleanup wipes out temporary files, cache, and stuff your system
doesn't use to get you more storage and boost your computer's zip.
Disk Defragmentation puts scattered pieces of files in order on HDDs
so your machine finds data quicker (but skip this if you've got an
SSD). Throwing these built-in goodies like Windows Disk Cleanup and
Defragmenter into the mix is wicked for keeping your hard drive trim.)

 Removing Unnecessary Programs: Frees up memory and CPU resources

by disabling startup applications.

(Uninstalling unused applications frees up RAM, CPU, and storage

resources. Disabling startup programs reduces boot time and
improves overall performance. Task Manager or third-party tools like
CCleaner can help manage startup programs efficiently.)

 Adjusting System Settings:

o Optimize virtual memory (page file).

(Adjusting the page file size can help improve performance, especially
for systems with limited RAM.)

o Adjust power settings for better performance or energy efficiency.

(Selecting a high-performance power plan can enhance speed on

desktops, while an energy-saving plan is ideal for laptops to conserve
battery life.)

 Using Antivirus Software: Regular scans help detect and remove malware,
preventing system slowdowns.

Regular virus and malware scans protect the system from threats that
slow down performance. Keeping antivirus definitions up to date
ensures protection against the latest cyber threats. Tools like

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Application Development and Emerging Technology

Windows Defender, Malwarebytes, and Bitdefender provide real-time

security.

 Backup & Recovery Strategies: Protects against data loss by implementing

scheduled backups using external drives or cloud services.

(Scheduled backups prevent data loss due to hardware failures,

system crashes, or cyberattacks. Use external drives, cloud storage
(Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox), or built-in Windows Backup tools.
Creating a system restore point allows users to revert to a stable
system state if issues.)

Repairing Network Connections

1. Identifying Network Faults

Network issues can disrupt connectivity and slow down internet performance.

 Symptoms of Network Issues: Slow speeds, frequent disconnections,

inability to access the internet, or unstable connections.
 Common Causes of Network Failures:
o Faulty Cables: Broken or loose Ethernet cables can interrupt the
connection.

(A primary cause of network failure is faulty cables. Ethernet cables

that are broken, frayed, or loosely connected can interrupt the
connection between the router, switch, or modem, leading to unstable
performance. Checking and replacing damaged cables can often
resolve connectivity issues.)

o Misconfigured Devices: Incorrect router, switch, or firewall settings

may block network access.

(Another common issue is misconfigured devices. Incorrect settings

on routers, switches, or firewalls may inadvertently block network
access. For instance, an improperly configured DHCP (Dynamic Host
Configuration Protocol) setting can prevent devices from obtaining an
IP address, leading to connectivity failures.)

o Network Congestion: Too many devices using bandwidth can cause

slow speeds.

(Network congestion is also a frequent cause of slow speeds. When

multiple devices on the same network consume a large portion of
bandwidth—such as streaming videos, downloading large files, or
gaming—it can reduce the overall network performance. In such
cases, using Quality of Service (QoS) settings on routers can help
prioritize bandwidth allocation for essential tasks.)

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Application Development and Emerging Technology

o Software Conflicts: Firewalls, antivirus software, or outdated drivers

may interfere with network performance.

(can interfere with network performance. Firewalls, antivirus software,

or outdated network drivers may block internet access or cause erratic
behavior. Keeping drivers updated and properly configuring security
settings can help mitigate these issues.)

 Diagnostic Tools:
o Ping & Traceroute: Tests connectivity and helps identify routing
problems.

(To identify network faults, various diagnostic tools are available. Ping
and Traceroute commands are useful for testing connectivity and
identifying routing problems. Running a ping test to a specific website
or server can determine whether data packets are successfully
transmitted and received. If packet loss occurs or response times are
significantly high, it may indicate a network issue.)

o IPconfig (Windows) / Ifconfig (Linux/Mac): Displays network

configuration and helps troubleshoot IP-related issues.

(For checking IP-related problems, IPconfig (Windows) or Ifconfig

(Linux/Mac) provides detailed network configuration information. This
tool helps troubleshoot IP address conflicts, subnet mismatches, or
DNS resolution issues.)

o Network Analyzers (Wireshark, NetFlow): Monitors traffic to detect

anomalies and security threats.

(For more advanced troubleshooting, network analyzers like

Wireshark and NetFlow monitor network traffic to detect anomalies
and potential security threats. These tools help diagnose excessive
bandwidth usage, unauthorized access, or unusual traffic patterns that
might be slowing down the network.)

 Physical Layer Troubleshooting: Check cables, switches, routers, and

modems for damage or loose connections.

(Network issues are often caused by physical layer problems. Checking the
cables, routers, modems, and switches for any visible damage, loose
connections, or overheating components can resolve many hardware-related
faults. If a router or modem is not functioning properly, restarting the device
can often help refresh the network connection.)

 Addressing Software Conflicts: Ensure network drivers, firewalls, and

security software do not block internet access.

(On the software side, ensuring that network drivers, firewalls, and
security programs are properly configured is essential. If an antivirus
or firewall is too restrictive, it may block network connections.

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Temporarily disabling these programs can help determine whether they

are the source of the problem.)

2. Reconfiguring Network Devices

Proper configuration ensures network stability and performance.

 Router & Switch Configuration: Adjust IP settings, DNS configurations, and

subnet masks to improve performance.
 Wi-Fi Settings & Wireless Troubleshooting:
o Change SSIDs (network names) and passwords to secure the network.
o Modify channels to avoid interference from nearby Wi-Fi networks.
 DHCP Settings: Verify that the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol
(DHCP) is properly assigning IP addresses.
 VLANs & Subnetting: Virtual LANs (VLANs) and subnetting help manage
network segmentation and reduce congestion.
 Resetting & Restoring Devices: If troubleshooting fails, factory-resetting
routers, switches, or access points may be required.

3. Replacing Network Hardware

Faulty network components can cause connectivity issues and require replacement.

 Replacing Faulty Cables: Use high-quality cables like Cat5e, Cat6, or fiber
optics for better performance.
 Switch & Router Replacement: Upgrade or replace malfunctioning network
devices to improve connectivity.
 Upgrading Network Cards & Wi-Fi Adapters: Ensure devices support the
latest Wi-Fi 6 or Gigabit Ethernet standards for optimal speed.
 Fiber Optic vs. Copper Cabling:
o Fiber Optic: Faster and more reliable over long distances.
o Copper Cables (Ethernet): Suitable for short-distance wired
connections.
 Post-Replacement Verification: After installing new hardware, test
connectivity using ping tests, speed tests, and network diagnostic tools to
confirm everything is functioning correctly.

Backup and Restore Data:

Data loss can result from accidental deletion, hardware failure, malware attacks,
or natural disasters. Implementing regular backup and restore strategies is essential
for protecting valuable data.

1. Importance of Data Backup

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359 Real Street Main Campus Tacloban City
Application Development and Emerging Technology

 Why Backups Are Necessary:

o Protects against hardware failure, cyberattacks (ransomware),
accidental deletion, and disasters (fire, floods).
o Ensures business continuity and prevents data loss from disrupting
operations.
 Backup Frequency:
o Daily, weekly, or monthly—depending on data importance and update
frequency.
 Types of Data to Back Up:
o Personal: Documents, photos, videos, emails.
o Enterprise: Databases, application data, system files, and
configurations.
 Backup Strategies:
o 3-2-1 Rule: Keep 3 copies of data, on 2 different storage types, with 1
copy stored off-site (e.g., cloud storage).
o Full, Incremental, and Differential Backups:
 Full Backup: Copies all data (time-consuming but
comprehensive).
 Incremental Backup: Backs up only new or changed data since
the last backup (efficient but requires previous backups for
restoration).
 Differential Backup: Backs up all changes since the last full
backup (faster than full, but takes more space than incremental).

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359 Real Street Main Campus Tacloban City
Application Development and Emerging Technology

1. Troubleshooting Hardware Issues

Diagnosing Common Hardware Problems:
○ MakeUseOf. (n.d.). How to test your PC for failing hardware: Tips and tools.
Retrieved from https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/how-to-test-your-pc-for-failing-
hardware/
Using Diagnostic Tools:
○ Microsoft. (n.d.). Description of the Microsoft hardware diagnostic tool. Retrieved from
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/topic/description-of-the-microsoft-hardware-
diagnostic-tool-c446e28e-8589-d236-bac2-37a0113e7848
Replacing Faulty Components:
○ MakeUseOf. (n.d.). How to test your PC for failing hardware: Tips and tools.
Retrieved from https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/how-to-test-your-pc-for-failing-
hardware/
2. Performing System Maintenance
Regular Software Updates and Patching:
○ Thales Group. (n.d.). What is a software maintenance process? 4 types of software
maintenance. Retrieved from https://cpl.thalesgroup.com/software-monetization/four-
types-of-software-maintenance
Preventive Maintenance for Hardware:
○ ClickMaint. (n.d.). A guide to preventive maintenance optimization. Retrieved from
https://www.clickmaint.com/blog/preventive-maintenance-optimization
System Optimization Techniques:
○ MakeUseOf. (n.d.). How to test your PC for failing hardware: Tips and tools.
Retrieved from https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/how-to-test-your-pc-for-failing-
hardware/
3. Repairing Network Connections
Identifying Network Faults:
○ Obkio. (n.d.). 16 most common network problems: How to find & fix them. Retrieved
from https://obkio.com/blog/common-network-problems/
Reconfiguring Network Devices:
○ Microsoft. (n.d.). Fix Wi-Fi connection issues in Windows. Retrieved from
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/fix-wi-fi-connection-issues-in-windows-
9424a1f7-6a3b-65a6-4d78-7f07eee84d2c
Replacing Network Hardware:
○ LifeWire. (n.d.). Fix your Wi-Fi woes: Common home network issues resolved.
Retrieved from https://www.lifewire.com/solutions-to-home-network-router-issues-
8740488
4. Backup and Restore Data
Importance of Data Backup:
○ NetApp. (n.d.). What is data backup and recovery, why is data backup important.
Retrieved from https://www.netapp.com/cyber-resilience/data-protection/data-backup-
recovery/what-is-backup-recovery/
Methods for Backing Up Data:
○ Wired. (2023, August 17). This free app can back up your computer to any cloud
service. Retrieved from https://www.wired.com/story/duplicati-free-app-back-up-your-
computer-to-any-cloud-service
Restoring Data:
○ NetApp. (n.d.). What is data backup and recovery, why is data backup important.
Retrieved from https://www.netapp.com/cyber-resilience/data-protection/data-backup-
recovery/what-is-backup-recovery/

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