slow pc - slow computer - common computer problem

When we started out PC repair business, in 1994, there seemed to be 2 common problems.
The first was hardware problems, often the IO Cards failed fairly often.
The other problem was where the DOS 6.0 or Windows 3.1 wasn't working.

Fixing the hardware was a matter of swapping and testing the replacement part to check the problem was solved. Fairly quick and easy.
The second problem may have entailed reloading DOS and Windows. Reloading DOS and Windows then took about 30 - 45 minutes. Again a fairly straight-forward fix and it was all ok.

Welcome to 2005.

Now in 2005, the internet is pervasive and you can get it nearly anywhere. Children sit for hours at night doing their homework on the family (or their own) computer. Work often goes late into the night. During their homework they will usually be chatting with friends all over the world. They may also be sharing their latest CD too. Unknown to them, their friends may be sharing more than a few tracks with them. Their 'friends' may be sharing their latest virus, program (maybe a malicious program) and a few RATs or Trojans.

Hidden intent in those 'free' software programs.

Some of the latest software will have had an agreement, unread, that said the software may contain parts that will monitor internet usage and promote 'special offers'.

The special offers, may load new programs onto their computer, in the background. Or may purport to give them 'free' software to remove viruses and spyware, where-as the opposite may be true. That it's actually installing spy-ware and viruses for it's own evil intent.

Spy ware, Ad ware, Trojans, RATs and Viruses.

Computer service work in 2005 is different. The recurring theme is the removal of viruses, spyware, trojans, adware, keyloggers, interactive toolbars.
It involves removing internet connections and viruses that may have been created today on the other side of the world and spread worldwide in a matter of minutes. The work is continually changing to match new demands to restore the computer's functions to normal.

Repairing or re-installing the software can take from few hours to a full days work to get it right (if possible). It involves replacing Antivirus and firewall software. Installing program updates.

Who agreed to this?

The family member who agreed to the software installation are 'smart', fast with a PC and quick to accept their 'friends' recommendations of the free software's benefits. Or they believe the screen pop-up that said 'you've got viruses and these spyware problems', here's some free software to solve the problem.

Unfortunately, their parents, are the one's who pay the repair bill. And the parents are often not conversant with the computer's use.

Recommendations (keeping the pc clean).

We make recommendations to the parents, (the children if they're home), and the PC is back in operation again for the homework, chatting and probably the file sharing and downloading.

It's a recurring theme, unfortunately. It may all happen so quickly, and the children meant no harm. If a pop-up came up they may think they're helping Mum and Dad but taking the on screen advice. Only later is it obvious that it was not a good decision.

Getting Genuine Informed Help.

There are sites offering help for the whole family. Sites link www.netalert.net.au and www.cybersmartkids.com.au are government sponsored to help families with the new-age cyber world.

Stay out of trouble.

While we're doing our repair work we use and recommend NOD32 Antivirus for smooth trouble-free computing, Outpost Pro Firewall to protect your system and information, Visit our product page for more info.

When you're using this computer, think for a moment, how you would continue tomorrow if the PC was stolen or trashed overnight. Backup is the one thing that will help. Pixel ITT use and recommend Dantz Retrospect for incremental backups. Visit our product page for info.

Is it time for a service call?

If you have a problem with your PC or network call me.
If I can't get you up and running over the phone then a service call or remote connection is the next step. My job is to help you get back on track. Using a competent PC Repairer means you suffer less down-time and that means you get on with your business.

We can help with fast and professional and computer and network repairs and upgrades. We can also do a full service on your PC or network to ensure it operates smoothly and trouble-free.

You can use our services many ways:

		On-Site Servicing during business hours to get you up and running faster
		On-Site Servicing after business hours to minimise on-site interruption
		Pick up and Delivery the next day to avoid on-site interruption
		For suitably qualified clients Remote service is a real possibility where-ever you are. Call or contact us and ask for details
		We also provide follow-up phone support and a warranty on all our work.

Checkout our products for the latest software and hardware we can supply and install.

Call me on 9529 6600 for an initial discussion or to arrange a free evaluation of your computer and telecommunication requirements.

Glossary (this is a short list of some types of malicious programs)

RAT, Remote Access Tool, usually a hidden program so others can see or use your computer, usually without your knowledge
Trojan, like the trojan horse of ancient mythology. it sits on your computer waiting for instructions and then acts on them.
Virus, a flu like infection your computer gets and is usually spread from your computer to others, so they too can transmit the virus
Spyware, reports back to base (wherever that is) what your internet habits are link, where you visit, and other things about you
Key Logger, records your keyboard and mouse movements, may often be designed to capture and send back to base, your private details
Adware, to feed advertisements at you
Toolbars, are a normal part of your browser, but may contain some hidden agenda, or invite other programs onto your computer
SPAM or UCE, Unsolicited Commercial EMail, those emails everyone seems to receive non-stop, many contain hidden code that confirms your email address if you happen to view or open the email. Once your email address is confirmed even more garbage arrives in your inbox.

Greg Martyn has over 30 years Technical experience in telecommunications and is an active subscriber of Microsoft® Technet®. Go to about us for more information.

year 2005, the most common pc problems today

The way it was.

Welcome to 2005.

Hidden intent in those 'free' software programs.

Spy ware, Ad ware, Trojans, RATs and Viruses.

Who agreed to this?

Recommendations (keeping the pc clean).

Getting Genuine Informed Help.

Stay out of trouble.

Is it time for a service call?

You can use our services many ways:

Glossary (this is a short list of some types of malicious programs)

RAT, Remote Access Tool, usually a hidden program so others can see or use your computer, usually without your knowledge

Trojan, like the trojan horse of ancient mythology. it sits on your computer waiting for instructions and then acts on them.

Virus, a flu like infection your computer gets and is usually spread from your computer to others, so they too can transmit the virus

Spyware, reports back to base (wherever that is) what your internet habits are link, where you visit, and other things about you

Key Logger, records your keyboard and mouse movements, may often be designed to capture and send back to base, your private details

Adware, to feed advertisements at you

Toolbars, are a normal part of your browser, but may contain some hidden agenda, or invite other programs onto your computer

SPAM or UCE, Unsolicited Commercial EMail, those emails everyone seems to receive non-stop, many contain hidden code that confirms your email address if you happen to view or open the email. Once your email address is confirmed even more garbage arrives in your inbox.