- 1). Write down any error codes you receive. Visit the Microsoft Knowledge Base and enter the error message (see the link in Resources). The Knowledge Base will provide step-by-step instructions on fixing the error.
- 2). Visit Windows Update to ensure you have all available updates. Even though updates are no longer being created, there may be updates you never installed. These may fix any problems you have.
- 3). Defragment the hard drive if you notice sluggish performance. Fragmented files can cause delays in opening files and programs.
Go to Start > Programs > Accessories > System Tools > Disk Defragmenter. Choose the drive to defragment and click "OK." - 4). Check BIOS settings to determine if the BIOS is configured correctly for your hardware.
During the boot process, press the correct key to enter the BIOS. This key will vary depending on the computer manufacturer. The key will be displayed during the boot process.
You can change information on booting, hardware configuration and password information. - 5). Update drivers. If hardware problems are occurring, visit the manufacturer's website for the hardware to see if driver updates are available. Download and install the updates.
Go to Start > Settings > Control Panel > System and click the "Device" tab to see if there are hardware problems.
Exclamation points mean there is a conflict with another device. Red X means a device either is disabled or not found. Other devices are devices that need drivers to work correctly. - 6). Troubleshoot shut down and start-up errors. These are two of the most common types of Windows 98 errors.
Uninstall new hardware or software to see if the problem lies with a recent installation.
Try to shut down the computer in Safe Mode. Safe Mode can be accessed through the Options menu during the boot process. A note on the correct key to press can be found at the bottom of the screen during the boot process and varies based on the computer manufacturer. If the computer doesn't shut down properly, you may need to update your BIOS.
Disable device drivers if you've recently updated them to see if there is a conflict.
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