What to Do If Your Computer Is Slow or Not Working Properly

Prerequisites / Minimum Requirements

  • You are logged into your Creighton-issued computer.
  • You have an active internet connection.
  • You have permission to install updates (standard on Creighton-managed devices).
  • For Dell Command Update, the device must be a Dell computer (most Creighton computers meet this requirement).
  • Your laptop or device must be plugged directly into wall power before starting updates.
    • Some updates are large and time-consuming.
    • Updates may fail or pause if the device goes to sleep or loses power.

End State / Outcome

  • Your computer is fully updated with the latest manufacturer drivers and Windows updates.
  • Background performance issues related to outdated drivers, missing patches, or pending updates are resolved.
  • System performance, stability, and security are improved.
  • If issues persist, the problem is escalated to the Service Desk for further assistance.

How to Steps

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Restart your computer before running any updates.

A fresh reboot ensures:

  • Updates can install properly.
  • Background processes are cleared.
  • The system runs updates without unnecessary load that could slow down performance.

Important: Before continuing, make sure your laptop is plugged into wall power so updates can complete without interruptions.


Step 2: Run Dell Command Update (Dell Computers Only)

The majority of computers at Creighton are Dell machines.

  1. Open Dell Command Update from the Start Menu.
  2. Click Check for Updates.
  3. Install any available driver updates provided by Dell.

These updates can resolve common hardware-related issues including:

  • Webcam problems
  • Audio and microphone issues
  • Display or graphics concerns
  • General system performance problems

Restart your computer again if prompted.

Note: Keep your device plugged into wall power during the entire update process to prevent the system from going to sleep.


Step 3: Run Windows Update

  1. Open Settings
  2. Select Windows Update
  3. Click Check for Updates
  4. Install all available updates from Microsoft

Windows Updates may include:

  • Security patches
  • System performance improvements
  • Bug fixes
  • Application and feature updates

Restart your computer if required.

Important: Windows Updates can be large and may take time. Ensure your device remains plugged into wall power until updates are fully complete.


Step 4: Run the Creighton Security Scan

  1. Open the Security Scan application on your Creighton computer.
  2. Run a full scan to check for:
    • Missing patches
    • Updates that may not have installed correctly
    • Potential security or compliance issues

Follow any on-screen prompts and restart if instructed.


Step 5: Contact the Service Desk (If Issues Persist)

If your computer is still slow or not working as expected after completing all steps above:

Call the Creighton Service Desk: 402-280-1111
Select the appropriate option for technical support.

If this article did not help, please review the Related Articles in the right hand column or select the Related Services / Offerings and choose Report an Issue or Problem to open a ticket with the Service Desk.
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