If your computer system is running slow, consider taking it to a computer repairman for upgrades. Possible solutions include increasing the RAM, virus removal and re-installing the operating system. You could take your computer to a local computer repair shop, but online computer repair has more benefits, among them convenience (the repairs are done remotely without the need for you to move your computer), cost benefits, tech support, advice on computer care, and greater choice of repairmen (you are not restricted to the talent available in your city). Note that for problems that cannot be fixed remotely, the repairman will come to your home or office to fix the problem.
The Internet has no borders and it, therefore, follows that you have access to many online computer repair companies across the U.S. It is important that you are careful when picking between these companies since some are neither credible nor reliable. There are several tips that will help you find the best computer repair company in the U.S.A.
Consider the services that a company offers. As an example, if the low speed is as a result of viruses, you want a company that will install an antivirus and run the program. Consider the number of computer problems similar to yours that the company has helped solve.
Ask about the cost of the service. Go for a company that charges by the hour as you are more likely to get a good deal with hourly charging. You should do research before hand to determine how much you expect to pay. Avoid the temptation of going for the ‘lowest bidder’ because a ‘cheap’ company could be compromising on the quality of service or you could be trapped in a scheme where you are billed for hours that are higher-than-average number.
To ensure you get value for money, ask about the number of billable hours the repairs are likely to take. This way, you will tie the hands of the repairman so that he/she does not exceed the hours indicated. The likely answer you will get is, “I cannot be totally sure, but on average, fixing this type of problem does not take more than X hours.” It is important that you know what the task will involve so that you know approximately how many hours it will take. There are many online resources (such as discussion forums) that will help you make this determination and that will help you determine how much you expect to pay.
Ask for estimates and go through them to ensure there are no hidden costs. Some computer problems require ‘quick fixes’ that only take a few minutes and you should, therefore, ask about the minimum charge. Most online computer repair companies have a customary minimum bench charge of 1 billable hour. You should also ask about charges for in-home and in-business repair services because most computer repair services usually charge slightly higher hourly rates or extra fees for such services.
You should only go for an online computer repair company that guarantees its services. This ensures that you will not have to pay for the same repairs on your computer 3 weeks down the line. Most companies have guarantees ranging from 30 to 90 days, depending on the problem. Read the fine print of the agreement to determine the types of problems that are covered. It is also important to note that you do not expect guarantees on such repairs as virus removal (which is like expecting a car wash to guarantee that your car will not get dirty for 30 days after cleaning). You should always ask how the company intends to protect the integrity of your data. Some repairs might require that a data backup is created.
If you are getting an in-business or in-home service, it is important that you ask about when the repairman will be able to come out to your business or home. If you do not ask, there is a risk that he/she will serve other clients first.
Consider the qualification and experience of the repairman. The repairman should have the necessary certifications since some computer manufacturers will not honor warranties if repairs are done by a repairman they have not certified.
The best way to find a credible and reliable online computer repair company is through personal referrals from relatives, friends, or colleagues. You could also get tips on good repair companies from such online communities as discussion forums, from customer testimonials, and from independent reviews.
Read a BBB (Better Business Bureau) review of the business you are considering, but note that a business can be credible and reliable even without BBB accreditation (businesses are not obliged to seek accreditation). If the business does not have an A+ rating, consider the reasons for the inferior rating. Some such as delivery issues should not overly concern you, but be careful if there are guarantee/warranty issues or problems with service.
by Ross Deprey
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