Fear of Breaking Something

Top 5 Problems Novice Computer Users Face

1. Fear of Breaking Something

Most computer users — whether new to technology or simply unsure about how things work — share a common fear:

“What if I break something?”

You’ve probably seen people say, “Don’t worry. You can’t break your computer.”

That’s partially true.

Modern computers are designed with safeguards. You’re not going to destroy your system by clicking the wrong icon or opening the wrong menu. However, there are certain actions that can create serious problems if you don’t understand what’s happening.

Not permanent destruction — but avoidable headaches.

The key is understanding which processes should never be interrupted.

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Example: BIOS Updates

If you're learning computers because you want to run a small business or work independently, I explain the practical basics in my guide to what hardware and software is and introduced  BIOS upgrades, this is one of the rare situations where interruption can cause major issues.

In case you've forgotten, BIOS is Basic Input and Output System.  It's what loads first on your computer. If you’re still nervous about making mistakes, read the POST titled BIOS and ask questions if you need clarification.  You can also watch my video Introduction to Computer for Business Entreprenours again.

If you turn off your computer during a BIOS update, you can corrupt the firmware that allows your system to start properly. In that case, the computer may not boot at all and may require professional repair.

This doesn’t mean BIOS updates are dangerous.  In fact, it may be more dangerous to ignore the update altogether.

It means they must be allowed to finish.

If you are performing a BIOS upgrade:

• Follow the instructions exactly as shown on the screen.

• Make sure a laptop is fully charged and plugged into power.

• If using a desktop, consider a battery backup (UPS) to protect against power outages.

In short:

If your computer is updating firmware, installing the operating system, or performing a system reset — do not turn it off.

Let it finish.

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What This Really Means

Outside of rare situations like firmware updates, most everyday actions are safe. You can explore menus, adjust settings, and even make mistakes without permanently damaging your system.

Understanding the difference between:

• Routine activity

• And critical system processes

removes nearly all of the fear.

Technology becomes much less intimidating once you know where the real risks actually are.

And they are far fewer than most people think.

The full list of the Top 5 Problems Novice Computer Users Face is listed below.  Now that I've addressed Problem #1, I will create future blog posts to address the other 4 reasons as well. 

1. Fear of breaking something
   Worry that one wrong click will ruin the computer. Emphasis: reassurance and safe explanations.

2. File confusion
   Not understanding save vs download, where files go, or how to find them later.

3. Passwords & account confusion
   Mixing up emails, usernames, passwords, reset loops, and login anxiety.

4. Updates, pop-ups, and scary messages
   Not knowing what’s normal vs what’s a scam; fear-driven paralysis.

5. Basic hardware confusion

6. Ports, cables, printers, Wi-Fi, and “what plugs into what."

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Your version of Windows has reached the end of service

 

A couple of days ago, I purchased a new Dell Inspiron 15 3520.  It came with Windows 11 Home and 16GB RAM.  I requested to have the windows version upgraded from Home to Pro and the RAM upgrade to 32GB.

Everything appeared to go as planned until yesterday when I noticed the above error message, Get the newer version of Windows to stay up to date, followed by Your version of windows has reached the end of service.  I clicked on "Check for update" and watched the familiar spinning as it loaded, nothing.  I clicked it again, same result.  After a few google searches, I realized this was nothing new.  Apparently, there are windows build that's being released, even with new computers, that have this problem.  Frankly, I was very surprised, this was a new Windows 11 operating system from Microsoft.

The solution is to download, from microsoft.com (don't click on any other links) the actual build that will fix the issue.  The amount of time it will take depends on the speed of your Internet connection.  I had no problems with my files or anything else.  NOTE: It still forced me to verify my hardware supported Windows 11, so when you see that message, just download the PC Health Check and follow the steps.

Here’s the official Microsoft download link that fixes it 👇

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If you’re already have Windows 11 installed

Use this link:

👉 https://www.microsoft.com/software-download/windows11

Choose “Windows 11 Installation Assistant.”

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Important notes:

• ✔ This resolves the “end of service” error

• ✔ Files and programs are kept

• ⏳ Can take 30–90 minutes, longer over slow Internet

• 🔌 Keep your laptop plugged in

• 💾 Backup important files first (always smart)

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BIOS Upgrades - What the heck is that?

 Every computer has something called the BIOS or Basic Input/Output System.

Think of the BIOS as the computer’s starter system.

When you press the power button, the BIOS is the very first thing that wakes up. Before Windows loads. Before you see your desktop. Before anything else.

Its job is to:

• Check that your hardware is working (memory, processor, drives)

• Tell the computer how to start

• Hand control over to the operating system (like Windows)

If the BIOS doesn’t work, the computer can’t start.

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So What Is a BIOS Update?

A BIOS update is when the manufacturer installs a newer version of that starter system.

Why would they do that?

Usually to:

• Fix hardware bugs

• Improve stability

• Add support for new components (like a newer processor)

• Improve security

It’s similar to updating Windows — but it happens at a deeper level.

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Why Is It More Sensitive Than Normal Updates?

When you update Windows, if something goes wrong, it’s usually fixable.

But when you update the BIOS, you are rewriting the small program that allows the computer to turn on properly.

If the computer loses power during that update, it may not know how to start anymore.

That’s why you should:

• Never turn off the computer during a BIOS update

• Make sure a laptop is plugged in

• Avoid performing it during unstable power conditions

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Simple Way to Remember It

Windows update = updating the software you use.
BIOS update = updating the instructions that let the computer start.

One works after the computer is running.
The other works before the computer even wakes up.

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Introduction to Computers VIDEO

 Introduction to Computers for Business Entrepreneurs

... and pretty much anyone who doesn't undestand computer basics.

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Welcome Message

Welcome to ExtraHelpUs

If you feel stuck in an endless cycle of computer confusion, you’re in the right place.

ExtraHelpUs exists for one simple reason: to give you free, straightforward, no-nonsense help with everyday computer problems—without jargon, pressure, or sales pitches.

Let me be clear from the start: I am not trying to sell you anything.
ExtraHelpUs is completely free. There are no products, no subscriptions, and no hidden sales pitches—just help.  I may not have all the answers but I do have a wealth of experience in computers and Information Technology in the corporate world.

Here, you’ll find blog posts that break down common issues and show you exactly how to fix them, step by step. These aren’t theoretical explanations or tech-speak. They’re practical solutions you can actually use.

In addition to written guides, ExtraHelpUs will also host live and recorded events, where we tackle real problems in real time. You’ll be able to ask questions, watch solutions unfold, and finally understand why things work the way they do.

We start with the basics—things like copy and paste, understanding the parts of a computer, and how everyday tools actually work. Everything is explained at a level you can understand. If you’re older, didn’t grow up with technology, or have always felt left behind, this place was built for you.

I will slow down as much as you need. My goal isn’t to rush through topics—it’s to help you truly understand how to use your computer with confidence.

As your skills grow, we’ll also explore ways to move forward— including how to find good-paying jobs in technology, through posts, live discussions, and recorded sessions. Learning technology doesn’t just reduce frustration—it can open doors.

This is just the beginning. There’s a lot more coming, all built around one goal: helping you feel confident, capable, and in control of your technology.

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