#1: If your computer is working fine right now, it
does not need any maintenance.
I don’t think people really think this, but I find that
people often will not have their computer worked on until it’s too late. If
everything is working fine, I won’t get a call. There are several maintenance
checks that should be done regularly. Not only should this be considered
preventative maintenance, but during this Tune-Up Process, a technician can notice
things that most people wouldn’t.
Lack of system maintenance is one of the most common causes
of data loss and/or heavy computer
repair bills.
#2: The maintenance tools provided in the Microsoft
Operating System and software are all the maintenance you need.
This is a common and terrible misconception, similar to the
idea that any antivirus program is fine as long as you have something. Microsoft doesn’t even come
close to providing the programs and features which can protect your data from
viruses, hackers and data loss or prevent your PC from running slowly.
Additionally, Microsoft (and other software vendors for that matter) are constantly providing critical patches and updates to their software to protect you from viruses and hackers. However, if you don’t know to look for them, or if you don’t know how to install them properly, you could easily end up getting burned.
Additionally, Microsoft (and other software vendors for that matter) are constantly providing critical patches and updates to their software to protect you from viruses and hackers. However, if you don’t know to look for them, or if you don’t know how to install them properly, you could easily end up getting burned.
#3: My nephew/neighbor’s kid/brother-in-law knows this
computer stuff and can help me solve my problems.
This one is actually my favorite because it gets me more
business! Jokes aside, not all technicians are created equal, and I have run
into countless machines which have clear residue from past tinkering. Just
because a person is good with computer applications (what we call a power user)
does NOT mean they know how to properly maintain a PC or complex networks. Technicians
also need to be well versed in the latest tech to ensure that you are not only
getting the most for your money, but that everything you are using is
statistically rated the most reliable. Reputable programs change all the time,
and I know of many “technicians” who are
using the same programs and processing that they have been using for 10+ years.
Most people look for a part time “guru” to help them save
money, but this often comes back to haunt them. If the person you have working
on your machine is not a licensed technician by trade, it is almost a certainty
that they don’t have the knowledge and experience to help you in an effective
and reliable manner. Technology advances at lightning speed and it takes
constant learning and practice to master it. If your part-time technician is
not working on PCs and networks every day, they probably only know enough to be
dangerous.
#4: All computer technicians are created equal. Your
best option will be the one who offers the lowest price.
For the most part, you get what you pay for. I have gained
many regular clients who, when I first met them, had several cheap computers
that all needed serious work done. Instead, I usually replace these computers
with one or two good, middle of the road machines. Just as with computers, if
the technician is the cheapest, it could just mean that they have no idea what
they are doing. When it comes to your tech world, the cheapest anything could
end up costing you time and money.
