How To Get Free Computer Help
November 2005
We admit that fixing computers is sometimes not the easiest of endeavours. However, it is a paradox that if you try and sort out the problems yourself you'll gain some good knowledge and skills which will help you experience less problems in the future. Also, face facts, we are going to be relying more and more on technology in the future so having a good grasp of it can only be a benefit.
One of the advantages with computer problems is that in general they will not be specific to your computer. Chances are if you have a problem then many other computer users will have that exact same problem. The Internet really helps here because people will guaranteed be talking and offering solutions. You can find much of this information via Google etc (see points below).
One important point to note about 'help' and computers is that 'Help Desks' themselves are usually no help whatsoever. What we do when we've got a problem is utilise a two-pronged attack.
1 - Think Logically
As we mentioned earlier, if you have a problem then there is a very good chance other computer users around the world are in the same boat -
- Use Google and literally type the problem in as a question (remember to put the phrase in "......")
- For example, "how do I stop my computer fan making a noise"
- "When I insert the CD it does not automatically play"
- "How to stop Microsoft Word crashing my computer"
- If the problem is a common one then chances are you'll find some good answers and help on the net
2 - Use Internet Message Boards
Message Boards are one of the greatest mediums born out of the internet revolution. They are places where real people talk about different topics. They are incredible for research and gather information about almost every conceivable topic, including of course computer problems.
One that we use a lot for sorting computer problems out is the excellent www.webuser.co.uk/forum board. The Forum is split up into different sections so there is an email help section, networking, security, general etc.
The beauty about Forums is not only can you ask questions but also search what has been discussed before. Also don’t be afraid to ask what you think are simple questions, most forums are very welcoming indeed.
Paying Money Is Often Not The Way To Go
- A lot of money is wasted by people paying for a computer expert to fix something that they could do themselves
- A comparison would be to take your car into the garage so they can refill it with windscreen wiper fluid
- A good option though is to visit your local computer store and ask them for a quote to fix the problem and what perhaps they think it might be
- This will then give you some clues as to what to ask on the internet and the message boards etc
- Another option is to look in the windows of newsagents or local shops because computer experts often advertise there and can charge competitive rates
If You Are Experiencing Problems Your Computer Likely Has Spyware Problems
Spyware is a real problem these days and chances are if you’re having PC problems then Spyware is the root. On the LearnMoney site we’ve produced a free Anti Spyware Guide which will help you sort these problems out once and for all. The guide is written specially so people with limited computer skills can easily follow it. And the bonus is that by working through the manual you will learn a lot about computers which will help you immensely in the future.
One excellent piece of software that the guide does not mention is the brand new and 100% Microsoft AntiSpyware utility which SHOULD be downloaded and installed by everyone, we use it on all of our computers and it’s excellent.
Summary
If you want to have less computer problems then it’s wise to learn more about them. Learning is not hard, and like anything the more work you do the easier it becomes. This guide has hopefully given you some ideas and shortcuts on how to start going about the process of fixing your computer.
Good luck!
See Also
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