Computer Repair Online

Computer Repair Via the Internet

When your computer breaks down, freezes up, or freaks out, your first response may be to call someone to come and repair it, or take it to your local PC repair guy. But before you pick up the phone or drag your computer out to the car, check out some of the online computer repair services that can often fix your computer right over the Internet.

Of course, if your computer won't even start up, or your Internet connection is not working, then online computer repair is not an option. But for many common problems, such as viruses, spyware, lost files, trouble with external devices, or security issues, an online repair service can be an excellent alternative. Here are some that you can try if the need arises:

Support.com provides online computer support, serving home and small business customers. They use remote computer technology to access your computer over the Internet, while you watch. The ability to directly access your desktop alows the tech support person to see what the problem is directly, rather than by a frustrating series of questions and answers over the phone. Support.com offers tech support any day or time for both computers and peripherals. For ongoing tech support, prices start at $19.99 a month or $199.99 annually. You can also get one-time tech support and pay a la carte. For $129.99, you can get "Diagnosis & Repair" to fix problems and optimize performance. Configuring a wireless network and securely connecting your devices costs $99.99. For $49.99, they'll help you hook up a new printer, digital camera, MP3 player or other electronic device.

Similarly, 24/7 Techies employs remote support tools and Microsoft certified technicians to securely access and fix your PC. Their diagnostic and computer repair software can find and remove viruses and other problems. They can also help with setting up a new computer, connecting a printer or scanner, configuring backups, and optimizing your computer's performance. A one-year unlimited 24/7 support package costs $199.95. They don't seem to offer any a la carte or one-time services.

Other options for online computer repair can include your Internet service provider and the company that made your computer. Check your contract or warranty, you might even be entitled to free online repair assistance.

Do It Yourself (Or With a Friend)

Sites like AskBobRankin.com, and others such my friend Leo Notenboom's Ask Leo site, or Dave Taylor's Ask Dave Taylor are also available for people who want to find answers to their computer problems, and fix it themselves. Both Leo and Dave are personal friends, and are trustworthy computer experts. If you can't find the answer here, check with them.

You can also find some excellent tips for D-I-Y tech support at the Geek Squad Self Help page. They offer free tips for setting up or troubleshooting a wireless network, online tools to scan for viruses, and many other topics.

Here's another option for people that have geeky friends. Using the same type of remote access tools that the paid services listed above employ, you can invite a friend to connect to your computer over the Internet. Your friend will be able to view your desktop, move your mouse, and hopefully diagnose and fix your problem. See my related article on Remote Access to Your Computer for more information on how that all works.

And finally, if you're not in a hurry, Protonic offers free computer support by email. Protonic has a worldwide network of quallfied volunteers that enjoy the challenge of helping people fix computer problems. Membership is free. After submitting your problem, a techie will reply via email, and help you find a solution.

Have you ever used an online computer repair service, or helped a friend via remote desktop access? Post your comment or question below...

Source: http://askbobrankin.com/computer_repair_online.html

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