What to check when a computer changes owners

When a computer changes owners, it can be hard to tell whether a problem is new, was already there, or is just a setting that needs attention. A quick check before the handoff gives both people a clearer picture of what works.

Run the checks on the computer itself, before it is erased or after it has been set up for its new owner. The Test Everything tool walks through hardware tests one at a time and gives you a report, right in the browser.

Check the computer before the handoff

1. Open Test Everything on the computer that is changing owners. Follow the on-screen steps and allow camera or microphone access when prompted if you want to test those devices.
2. Connect the computer to power and attach the keyboard, mouse, monitor, or other accessories that will go with it. If it is a laptop, test it both plugged in and on battery when possible.
3. Work through the relevant checks. Press keys, move and click the mouse, inspect the screen, test sound, and check the camera and microphone if the computer has them. Use the network tests if connection quality is part of the handoff.
4. Note which accessories were connected and whether the computer was plugged in. If a test fails, repeat it after checking the connection or setting, rather than treating one result as proof that a part is broken.
5. Keep the report with your handoff notes, or write down the problem and the conditions you saw. If you are the new owner, run the check again after setup to see whether the same issue remains.

You do not need to test hardware the computer does not have. For example, a desktop may not have a battery or built-in camera. Some battery checks appear only when the browser reports a battery for the device.

What the results mean

The checks work as expected

This is a useful baseline: the tested parts responded during the check. It does not guarantee that every component is healthy or that a fault will never appear. Keep the report and mention any limits, such as testing only one monitor or using a particular headset.

A test reports a problem

First rule out a loose cable, muted device, blocked browser permission, or incorrect setting. Repeat the check after the quick fixes below. If the same problem appears again, record the symptom and agree on a repair, replacement, or price adjustment before the handoff is final.

A test is missing or cannot run

This does not automatically mean the hardware is faulty. The computer might not have that device, the browser may not support the check, or access may be blocked. Camera and microphone checks require browser permission. Try a current version of Chrome or Edge on a computer if a browser feature is unavailable elsewhere.

Performance or battery results look different than expected

Performance can change with background apps, heat, power mode, and whether the computer is plugged in. Battery readings are available only when the browser can access battery information, and they do not certify the battery's remaining lifespan. Compare results under similar conditions, and treat a browser check as one part of the handoff, not a full service inspection.

How to fix common test problems

1. Reconnect the device. Unplug and firmly reconnect the keyboard, mouse, monitor, camera, or audio cable. If you are using a hub, connect the device directly to the computer to check whether the hub is causing the problem.
2. Allow camera and microphone access. In your browser, use the site permissions control beside the address bar and allow the device you are testing. In Windows 11, open Settings › Privacy & security › Camera or Settings › Privacy & security › Microphone, then check access for desktop apps. On macOS, open System Settings › Privacy & Security › Camera or System Settings › Privacy & Security › Microphone and allow your browser.
3. Check the sound device and volume. In Windows 11, open Settings › System › Sound and check the selected input and output devices and their levels. On macOS, open System Settings › Sound and select the correct device under input or output.
4. Check power and battery conditions. Use the correct charger, inspect the cable for damage, and let a very low battery charge before comparing results. If the computer only works while plugged in, note that clearly for the next owner.
5. Restart and retest. Close apps that are using the camera, microphone, or audio devices, restart the computer, then repeat the affected check. If the fault remains, test an external device on another computer or try a known-good accessory on this one.

When it may be a hardware fault

A problem is more likely to be hardware-related when it repeats after a restart, with the correct settings, and with a known-good cable or accessory. A keyboard key that never registers, a screen defect that stays in the same place, or a port that fails with several devices deserves closer inspection. A browser test cannot inspect every internal component or certify a computer's condition. For an expensive device, ask a repair shop to diagnose persistent faults before agreeing to the transfer.

Protect personal data during the transfer

If you are giving the computer away, back up anything you need, sign out of personal accounts, and use the operating system's erase or reset process after checking the hardware. In Windows 11, the reset option is under Settings › System › Recovery › Reset this PC. On supported Macs, use System Settings › General › Transfer or Reset › Erase All Content and Settings.

If you are receiving the computer, ask the previous owner to remove their accounts and erase their data. Do not browse their personal files to test the hardware. Once the computer is reset and set up for you, run the checks again and save the report with your purchase or handoff notes.