Best Computer Repair Shops in Columbia, SC

FAQs

• What does a computer repair shop do?

  Computer repair companies are often a one-stop-shop for all computer problems, and customers will usually have a wide range of services at their disposal. These offerings typically include:

  • Installation of new hardware

  • Hardware maintenance and servicing

  • Installation of new software, including antivirus protection and server upgrades

  • Operating system troubleshooting and installation

  • Advice on choosing new components

• My computer runs slowly; can I fix it myself?

  Whether the problem is intermittent or occurs every time the computer is used, there are a number of things that can be done to resolve basic errors:

  • Reboot the computer. The simplest solution can often be the most effective. 

  • Delete temporary files.

  • Stop unnecessary programs from launching at startup.

  • Install more RAM.

  • Run a full scan for viruses. Viruses and malware are notorious for slowing performance.

  If all these steps have been tried without success, a computer repair technician can help solve performance issues.

  
  

• I accidentally deleted a file; how can I recover my data?

  There are a few steps you can try to recover a deleted file:
  

  • Check the Recycle Bin. Most deleted files end up here.

  • Restore the file from the last backup.

  • Sometimes files are moved accidentally. Search the hard drive  to see if this is the case.

  If all the suggestions above have been tried, it might be time to get in touch with a computer technician.

  
  

• How often should I back up my data?

  If the computer is used on a regular basis, backups should be made at least once a week using external storage. If changes are being made to files on a daily basis, users might want to consider running incremental backup routines. This type of backup only copies data that has been created or changed since the last full backup was completed.

  
  

• Where can I repair my Apple computer?

  For customers who need assistance with their Apple computer, MacBook, or mobile device, the best route is to contact an Apple Authorized Service Provider (AASP). Apple has a large network of authorized service providers and retail stores around the world. Customers can check with Apple to see if the provider is certified.

• What\'s the difference between a computer virus, spyware, and malware?

  The term malware is used to describe any software that is designed to damage a computer, server, or network. Viruses, spyware, ransomware, and adware are all varieties of malware. Viruses and worms are defined by their behavior and the way they spread from machine to machine. Spyware is software that tracks activities on a computer to steal sensitive information, such as passwords.

  A computer can be compromised through a number of different means, including clicking on an infected file or link, downloading infected software, or using a USB drive that has an infected file on it. A computer technician can help to detect and remove viruses.

  
  

• How can I tell if my computer has a virus?

  When a computer has a virus, it may exhibit one or more unusual behaviors. For example, users may notice slow performance, experience a sudden increase in pop-ups and spam, or be locked out of the computer completely. Different viruses have different payloads, and an experienced computer technician will be able to track down the source and remove it.

  
  

• Do I need antivirus software?

  Yes, the threat landscape is constantly changing, and viruses are becoming more sophisticated. Operating systems may have become more advanced over the years by offering built-in security and threat detection features, but they still have holes that could put the system at risk. A dedicated antivirus solution, on the other hand, has one job to do and does it very well. There are many different antivirus software solutions available today, and a computer repair shop will help customers choose the most suitable software.

  
  

• What should I do before taking my computer to the shop?

  If a computer needs to be taken to the repair shop, there are a number of things users can do to protect their data and hardware before and during transit:

  • Back up important data to an external hard drive or cloud-based platform.

  • Provide log-in details if required.

  • Take all power cables, peripherals, and software.

• How long will my computer repair take?

  Computer repair timescales can vary. If the problem is related to hardware and the repair shop has the necessary parts, the repair could take as little as 24 hours. More complex problems that require advanced diagnostic tools may take several days to resolve. Technician should be able to give a rough estimate once they understand the nature of the problem.

• Can my laptop screen be fixed?

  Possibly. It depends on the extent of the damage and the availability of parts. A laptop screen that has minor cracks in the LCD can often be fixed by installing a replacement. If the screen is broken internally, it's likely that both the LCD and LED backlight are damaged. A full replacement screen will be required in this case. Taking the laptop to a computer repair shop is typically the best option.