First off, the manual for this model can be found here (
https://www.dyson.com/medialibrary/Files/Dyson/Support/downloads/US/Floorcare/manuals/dc17_opmanual_usa%20pdf.pdf ) Between the manual, and elements that run across a number of Dyson uprights, here are a few things to try. To be thorough, I'll start with the hopefull way-too-obvious.
Unplug and re-plug to the wall outlet, or plug into another one. If it's a GFI plug, or one hooked to a wall on/off switch, reset the plug / flip the switch (or plug something else in to verify that there's wall power)
Make sure the dust bin is empty.
Dyson systems have sensors for blockage and brush obstructions to keep from overheating or burning out components. If the system overheats, it'll shut down, and not re-engage until it's cooled. If that may have happened, best to check, rather than turn it back on and re-overheat it due to the blockage still being there.
Go through the parts of the clearing-blockage pictures on page 9 of the manual. If there are blockages, the system will shut down to keep from overheating.
Check the filters. If they look dirty or dusty, wash them (as covered in the manual) and try again.
Detach the tube/wand from the back. Detach the wand and look through it for blockage. Either look down the tube, or stretch it out long and you should be able to see through the translucent walls, for blockage. If you find it, i've found a wire coat hanger bent into marshmallow-toaster shape, with a small hook bent into the end with pliers, to be pretty good at snaking from the ends of the tubes to grab wads of paper or lint (that's what usually ends up clogging my DC07 when it happens).
For the switch itself, there's a fair amount of disassembly to getting to the guts of the switch proper. IF you go that route, make sure it's unplugged first. Try just cycling the switch a dozen times or so and feel for if you're getting a distinct click from the toggle. Feel if it moves easily, or might feel jammed or impeded. if so, look in with a flashlight and see if there is any obvious lint or debris keeping the switch from moving easily.
Good Luck!
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