Windows 7 hanging AND getting Not a genuine version if networked

[UThorn]

I apologize for the long delay in responding. I was volunteering in Big Bend NP from Jan to end of Apr. Just came back to this older PC. I took the cover off and vacuumed out quite a bit of dust and cobwebs as well as blew some dust from the heatsinks and cooling fans. As previously noted the temps on this PC were running pretty hot. I appears to be running a bit cooler. I was able to run it without it hanging as was previously the case. I'd like to check that the fans are running properly and/or adequately. I'm not sure I know what even means for the cooling fans. I've looked online a bit and think it could also help if I took the heatsink and CPU cooling fans off and further ensured they're as clean as is possible. I've never done that and a bit concerned. If I do need to replace either cooling fans where would I find parts? Any thoughts or help would be appreciated.

 

[GokAy]

If you will remove the heatsink, then make sure you have some cleaning solution and thermal paste to reapply.

 

[gregrocker]

There is more information including instructional video here in Troubleshooting Steps for Windows 7:

4. Check temps for overheating by installing Core Temp which will allow monitoring temps from System Tray. If running hot blow dust out of the case using canned air or clean out laptop dust, check all connections carefully avoiding static discharge to components by touching case first, upgrade or reseat RAM checking for debris in slot.

You can google your exact Dell model to find a video showing how to re-paste the processor heat sink.