How To Save Money On Common Computer Repairs?

Answer 1

Computer malfunctions can be quite frustrating and expensive to fix. Newer parts for personal computers can be quite expensive and the fees that are charged by many repair shops can be quite exorbitant. And the majority of the problems that modern computers have can easily be fixed with a little knowledge. That is why an ever increasing segment of PC users are taking on the task of do-it-yourself computer repair. Here are some of the more common computer problems that can be addressed at home for a fraction of the cost of taking the computer to a repair shop.

Viruses & Spyware

The vast majority of computer problems can be attributed to viruses and spyware programs. These are malicious pieces of computer code that is designed to cause harm to the computer or collects personal information about the users of the computer without their knowledge. These programs can consume large amounts of system resources or destroy the computer’s ability to operate correctly. Computer Viruses and spyware programs can be easily eradicated if you take the following steps:

I. Install an anti-virus program. There are many free versions that can be downloaded off of the internet that work just as well as their commercial counterparts. These programs will allow you to remove the offending program without harming your computer’s operating system. Some of the more common ones used today include Avast Anti-Virus and AVG.

II. Install an anti-spyware program. Spyware programs have to be eliminated by a separate program that deals exclusively with spyware. A free program that eliminates spyware programs very well is Malwarebytes Anti-Malware.

III. Make sure that important computer updates are installed. Operating systems, especially Windows based operating systems, are full of security holes that must be patched. These holes allow malicious programs to slip through and install themselves on your computer. You can avoid this by making sure your computer’s latest updates are installed.

Damage to the Operating System

Sometimes the computer can’t be accessed enough to run an anti-virus or anti-spyware program. It either freezes up or starts up with the blue screen of death. If that is the case, you can still repair the computer yourself and save yourself some cash in the process. Here are the steps required to bring the computer back to its original operating level:

I. Restart the computer and press {F8}. When the start menu opens highlight “Safe Mode” and press {Enter}

II. When the computer enters “safe mode” click on Start -> Programs -> Accessories -> System Tools ->System Restore to enter the system restore menu.

III. Choose a restore point that has previously worked and click it. The computer will then restart and set your computer back to its original settings. You can then run an anti-virus program to remove the culprit.

Following the above steps can help you resolve some of the more common computer problems and avoid expensive computer repairs.