How To Choose

If your computer starts acting up, try these steps to get it back in business.

Consider free support first. It’s possible that free tech support from the manufacturer can solve your problem without costing you a cent. Free analyzers at www.pcpitstop.com test your hard drive, rate your PC’s performance, and look for spyware. If the analysis turns up problems you can’t fix on your own, you can pay to have them corrected. If your system is loaded with unused and temporary files, Ccleaner (www.ccleaner.com) will clean them up.

Check out other online tech support. If your free tech support has expired or is lacking, online forums can offer help. Start with Microsoft's Knowledge Base at www.support.microsoft.com for Windows-based software problems and discussions.apple.com for Mac troubles. Other sources include the free user groups at www.groups.google.com, www.groups.yahoo.com, and www.wugnet.com.

Check the reputation. Before you allow anyone into your home or give anyone remote access to your computer, make sure the provider is reputable. Consult the Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.org). Also see whether the company has done a background check on any technician who is to visit your home.

Ask about tech certification. Look for technicians who have CompTIA A+, MCSE (Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer), and MCP (Microsoft Certified Professional).

Skip the all-you-can-eat plan. Most independents offer subscription-based support, with fees of $25 or so a month or $150 per year for unlimited use. Skip it. It’s more cost-effective to pay by the incident or by the hour. If you are paying by the hour, make sure the company won’t charge for a full hour if your problem is fixed in 15 minutes.

Request a guarantee. If the company refuses, move on.

Weigh A Repair

How old is your computer? If your computer isn't under warranty, a repair might not make sense. If the PC is more than four years old, don't bother repairing it. If it's three to four years old, consider a fix. If it's off warranty and a year or two old, computer repairs are probably worthwhile.

How high is the repair estimate? Resist fixing a PC, whatever its age, if the bill will come to more than half the cost of a replacement machine.