Check the laptop’s battery and power connector to make sure the connection hasn’t come loose. If it’s still not turning on, it could be a problem with an internal component.

First and foremost, make sure your laptop is plugged in. Take a good, careful look at the power cord for any kinks or breaks that could be disrupting the flow of electricity. If the AC transformer box shows signs of discoloration, burning smells or warped parts, it probably needs to be replaced. If you find any faults in the power cord, replace it. You can find replacement power supplies online, at electronics retailers or by calling your computer’s manufacturer. If you find any damage to the power supply, unplug it from the wall and laptop until you’re able to replace it.

Once you’ve ruled out a faulty power supply, check the power connector on the laptop itself. Power connectors can become loose over time and stop working. If there is obvious damage to the power connector, or loose, wiggly parts, bring the laptop in for repairs. If possible, remove the battery from the laptop and try powering it on with just the power supply connected. If the laptop turns on without the battery, replace the battery so it will charge and power up correctly. Some manufacturers, like Apple, don’t allow you to remove the battery yourself, in which case bring the laptop in for replacement of the internal battery.

Most laptop processors have internal thermal protection that shuts down the computer. The laptop won’t start again until the system cools down. If you’re using the computer on a bed, pillow or other soft surface, make sure the computer’s vents aren’t blocked and that the hot air is being displaced correctly. A laptop that isn’t venting correctly could have a faulty fan that needs to replaced. If your laptop is hot to the touch, let it cool down completely before trying to turn it back on. A laptop that turns back on once its cooled down most likely has a problem with overheating.

If you do not find any problems with the power supply, battery or overheating, a faulty internal component may be causing the issue — a broken or damaged motherboard, for example, or damaged charging circuits, a faulty video card, RAM or software problems. If you’ve recently opened the computer and touched any components, static electricity may have caused damage. If you suspect that an internal component is causing the issue, take the computer in for repairs or speak to the manufacturer for warranty and replacement details.