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The laptop feels hot to the touch and/or internal temperatures are unusually high.

The system fans can collect dust or break, which can prevent proper cooling of the laptop’s internal components. The fans and vents on the bottom of the laptop may need to be cleaned or replaced.

Thermal paste is a compound used to transfer heat away from computer components, typically the CPU. The paste may need to be replaced.

The laptop often freezes or crashes. You notice files disappearing. You receive cryptic error messages when saving and/or moving files.

Exposure to excessive heat, water, and shock can cause irreparable physical damage to a hard drive. The drive will need to be replaced.

Logical failure refers to damage to the drive’s file system, rather than physical damage. Logical failure can occur from malware or corrupted files. Although files can be retrieved from the drive, the drive will need to be replaced.

Mechanical failure occurs when the read-write head or other mechanical components within the drive become faulty, which can potentially damage the data-storing platters inside.

The audio is distorted or choppy. This can be the result of faulty software and/or hardware.

Audio distortion or skipping could be the cause of old audio drivers, which can be updated through the Windows Update service.

The laptop’s speakers could cause distortion as a result of physical damage. They will need to be replaced.

“The CD/DVD disk tray refuses to open, close, or read an inserted disk, or emits unusual noises.”

If the drive refuses to open or close, it could be the result of debris inside the drive. Use compressed air to blow out any. If the drive continues to stick, it may need to be replaced.

If the CD/DVD drive produces unusual noises, it is possible that the mechanical components of the drive are damaged, and will need to be replaced.

Weak wireless connections can result from both faulty software or hardware. Therefore, it is best to try to remedy the situation through software before outright replacing the wireless hardware inside your laptop.

Old wireless drivers can cause poor connectivity. Drivers can be installed or updated through the Windows Update service.

Damage to the Wi-Fi card in your laptop can come from excessive heat or physical damage (such as from a drop). Wi-Fi card may need to be replaced.