If your Gateway won’t turn on, start with the power cord. Unplug it, then plug it back in—both ends. Listen for a tiny click or hum; that’s the laptop saying, “Hello, I’m alive!”
Try a different outlet. Yes, even the one behind your couch that’s covered in dust. If the charger’s light doesn’t glow, your adapter might be dead. That’s a bummer, but a $20 replacement on Amazon is cheaper than a new laptop.
Still nothing? Remove the battery if it’s removable (many Gateways have a sliding latch on the bottom). Hold the power button for 30 seconds to drain any residual charge. Pop the battery back in and try again. It’s like giving your laptop a tiny CPR.