1. Be Your Own Investigator
If you are having trouble with your computer, the first step is to try to determine what might be wrong. This can be done by trying different solutions or troubleshooting steps, until you find one that works. Once you have a solution, follow the steps outlined in the “Troubleshooting” section of this guide. ..
- Look for clues in the symptoms.
- Try different methods and see which one works best.
- Be patient and keep trying until you find the answer.
A system file integrity check should be run to ensure that the system is up to date and that the drivers are current. Remove recently installed hardware if necessary. Eliminate possibilities (e.g. swap out a mouse to determine if it or the PC or the mouse is at fault).
- The idea is to be systematic and work from broad possibilities to specific ones through a process of elimination.
- The goal is to come up with a list of potential solutions that are both feasible and effective.
- Once the list has been narrowed down, it will be easier to focus on the most promising options and develop them further.
2. You May Have Free Tech Support Already
If you’re looking for tech support, consider using a service like Geek Squad instead. They can help you with Windows and other software.
If you’re having driver or software issues with your hardware, such as your GPU, you can usually email support. If your hardware is still under warranty, then you absolutely should let the manufacturer or agent handle any problems instead of trying to fix it yourself. ..
If you bought a new device or computer, is it worth checking if you received a year or two of tech support?
3. Google It
So, if you ever find yourself with a computer issue that you can’t seem to solve, don’t be afraid to ask for help from a Geek Squad technician. They’re the best people for the job and they’ll be more than happy to help out.
The symptoms of a cold are: a fever, body aches, and a runny nose. To accurately describe the symptoms, you need to use the right keywords and descriptions. If you use these correctly, you’re likely to find a fix.
4. Hit Up the Forums
Many internet forums are a great resource for finding information and advice about specific problems. If you can’t find the answer to your problem on a forum, you can always help out and describe your specific problem in detail.
We offer tech support here at the library, so if you need help with anything, please don’t hesitate to ask! Just remember that no one is being paid to provide tech support here, so be sure to ask for help if you need it!
5. Ask a Friend
If you’re having trouble with your tech, there’s a good chance one of your friends can help. You can ask them for help, and this may be cheaper than going to a formal repair or Geek Squad tech support shop. ..
If you’re in need of a computer repair, it’s best to go to an established business that charges by the hour or by the job. However, if you want to avoid any potential problems down the road, it’s best to take advantage of an IOU or other form of payment. Just be sure that the service provided is worth the price tag.
6. Get Comfortable With a Screwdriver
If your computer troubles involve rooting around inside a computer, removing parts, checking components like heatsinks and fans for damage, and otherwise working with “scary” electronics, it might be time to get used to it.
Desktop PCs are the best way to use your devices. Even most laptops aren’t too hard to open up and have a poke around only if you have a good reason.
If you’re having trouble with your computer, don’t be afraid to ask for help. There are plenty of online resources that can show you how to do maintenance, repairs, and diagnostics on your computer. And if you’re ever stuck, there’s always the internet! ..
7. Check YouTube
We have a wide variety of tech tips that are beginner-friendly, and we also have a lot of quick and easy fixes to help you solve your problems. This is the perfect place to find all the information you need to get started with your technology.
For technical PC building advice, you might want to check out Gamer’s Nexus. If you’re going to simply learn about computer technology, you should also read 5 YouTube Channels Every Serious Tech Fan Should Subscribe To.
8. Shop Around for the Cheapest Geeks
There are a number of independent computer repair businesses that offer lower rates than the franchises. You can find one by doing a Google search for “independent computer repair.” ..
You can compare store hours and rates by using Google Maps. You can also ask your local store what their hourly rates are. There may be a special rate or promotion at one of the smaller mom-and-pop PC repair outlets since they need to compete with the big box stores.
When you’re looking at a store’s repair services, make sure to consider the cost of repairs and the technician’s availability. Often times, stores have large rent bills and running costs, so finding technicians who’ve set up shop where rent is cheaper might be an excellent way to get lower rates.