Hardware and Network Troubleshooting (Core 1)

1) Identify the problem, 2) Establish a theory of probable cause, 3) Test the theory, 4) Establish a plan of action and implement the solution, 5) Verify full system functionality and implement preventive measures, 6) Document findings, actions, and outcomes.

Step 1 — Identify the problem. Gather information from the user, identify user and environmental changes, and review logs.

To protect user data in case the repair attempt makes things worse — backing up is part of Step 1 (identify the problem), before any changes are made.

Check the simplest explanations first — for example, an unplugged cable, a powered-off device, or a muted volume — before assuming a complex failure.

Conduct external or internal research based on the symptoms — vendor documentation, knowledge bases, and forums.

Re-establish a new theory of probable cause, or escalate the issue to someone with more expertise.