Computer Repair
Virus and Malware Removal
Computer Viruses, Malware, Spyware, and more recently Ransomware are all risks with being connected to the internet. They come in many forms from popup advertisements, redirecting website links, fake antivirus programs and more. Keeping Windows and Antivirus updated is the best method to keep your computer and valuable data protected. However even with an active antivirus on your system you still can get a virus and that is where we come in. Not only will we remove those nasty infections, we will make sure your antivirus is up to date along with Java and Adobe Flash Player.
Common symptoms of an infection include but not limited to
- Popup Advertisements (on and offline)
- Browser redirects you to somewhere you didn’t intend
- Windows and or internet running slow or freezing
- A program locking you out of your computer requiring a payment.
If you experience any of the above, you should have your computer checked out as soon as possible, don’t type any passwords for websites until the computer has been checked out. What’s frightening is how many people have malicious content on their computer and simply ignore it. With all the ID theft this day in age, why chance it? Bring it in, that’s what we’re here for!
Computer Tune-Ups
Over time your computer can pick up junk programs, browser attachments, unnecessary items that run automatically and or programs that just need to be updated. Computers may also slow down due to program updates that change their original hardware requirements. For this reason we may recommend a memory upgrade if it is cost effective and will significantly improve the performance. Our tune-ups will have your computer running to the best of its capabilities.
We have many customers that will bring their computer in for a yearly checkup / tune-up, this is a good time to update your antivirus program to the latest version. It’s also a good rule of thumb to have your computer blown out at least once a year. Blowing out the system is often neglected simply because you can’t necessarily see inside the computer. This can cause the computer to slowdown or over heat causing other problems. Bring it in and let us take care of it for you.
New System Setup
Most people don’t realize how beneficial it is to have a computer setup properly with the most user-friendly settings, right off the bat. It is highly recommended that Windows 8, 8.1 and Windows 10 users have a trained technician set up your computer before you initially turn it on. Right out of the box, your new computer will ask questions related to system settings, some of which can change how the computer will use the internet.
What can be done for my new computer?
- Your user data, Pictures, Documents, Music etc., can be transferred from your old computer.
- Programs installed and updated. (Office, Outlook, Antivirus, QuickBooks, iTunes )
- Set a default user preferred internet browser, Internet Explorer, Firefox or Chrome, with choice of homepage.
- Update the system with the current service packs and windows updates.
- Create your computers recovery media. This is the software you’ll need if you ever have a hard drive failure.
- Configure the system’s backup options, so all you have to do it plug the device in when prompted.
We’ll make the transition to your new computer as easy as possible, if you’re unfamiliar with Windows 8.1, we’ll even give you a brief tutorial to help you ease in.
Data Backup and Transfer
A proper backup is having your data in two locations, in case one fails, you have the other. Setting up a proper backup can get very complicated depending on amount of data, required security, and method being used. Come in, tell us your needs and we’ll make a recommendation that best suits you or your office. We can also set up a system backup set so you don’t forget future backups.
System Upgrades
A Simple upgrade is often a more cost effective solution than purchasing a new computer. Our well trained technicians will examine your computer and give you honest opinions of what should and shouldn’t be upgraded. The most common system upgrades would include Solid State hard drives (SSD), increasing the Memory, adding or upgrading the Video card. We stock many parts in-store, come on in, take a look around!
Internet Security
Computers have become the target for hackers and viruses that look for and exploit vulnerabilities in Windows, internet browsers, and other programs, that’s why it’s so important to keep these all up to date.
Did you know, most Internet Service providers (Comcast, Centurylink) have available, for you to download, an antivirus program? It’s something to consider if you’re paying yearly for a subscription.
Computer Diagnostics
Is your computer not booting into Windows? Is it locking up or freezing? Do you get the dreaded Blue Screen of Death? Whatever the case may be, we will run your system through our extensive diagnostics to find out what’s causing your problem and recommend a repair. If the required repair is not cost effective, we will also give you recommendations on what to look for in a new computer.
Hardware Repair
As with most hardware, the repair is replacing the broken or defective component such as a Power supply, video card, RAM or hard drive. We stock the most common desktop hardware in store, on the shelf.
Laptop hardware is another story. While we stock LCD Screens, hard drives and power adapters, most parts will have to be special ordered since most components are made for a specific model.
Operating System Installation
There are many reasons to reinstall an operating system. Reinstallations eliminate Windows corruption, damage caused by viruses, accumulated junk software and a variety of other problems. In many cases it’s quicker than trying to troubleshoot a problem. If you’re in a time crunch, this may be a good option for you. The down side is reinstalling all the programs you’ve installed since you bought the computer. The upside, confidence knowing your computer is performing at its optimum potential.
If your computer was corrupted by a virus, a failed Windows update or you just want a fresh windows install to get your computer running, we can do that too. Not only will we install any relevant service packs and all current Windows updates, we will install and update your preferred antivirus.
Software Updating
Why is it important to keep Windows and currently installed programs updated? Updates fix compatibility issues and patch vulnerabilities that are exploited by hackers and viruses. By not installing security updates, you are essentially making it easier to get infected or have other problems.