Gearfuse Technology, Science, Culture & More
Technology woes are facts of life. Back in late 2014, Re/code reported that more than 90 percent of U.S. households had three or more connected devices, and more than half of households had at least five connected devices.
When devices don’t perform as they’re supposed to, the natural response is to replace them. (Or at least contemplate replacing them.) In many cases, this is a worthy response. Some problems are simply beyond repair.
But not all—and not nearly as many as most tech users think.
“Many computer users are too quick to replace their machines,” says George Otte, Miami-based entrepreneur and founder of Geeks on Site, a national computer repair company. “People are really surprised when they learn what’s possible with computer repair—and quite pleased with the cost-effectiveness of repair, compared with buying new.”
If you’re facing down a technology issue that seems impossible to remedy with the resources at your disposal, think twice before ordering a costly replacement. In these five situations, you may be better served by attempting to repair—or calling on a qualified professional for help.
- You Want To Customize Your System
As iFixIt notes, buying and then customizing a computer system is expensive. A top-of-the-line desktop machine can easily approach $2,000 out of the box. Additional upgrades or modifications can cost hundreds more. If you’re happy with your current computer, why not invest in targeted repairs that cost a fraction of the sticker price of a new machine, then focus on upgrading and customizing the system to your whims?
- You’d Need Professional Assistance To Set Up a New System
Setting up a new computer system is time-consuming and technically challenging. Many non-experts prefer to leave it to the pros. If you’re willing to spend more to have a professional set up your new system, by all means go that route. But if your budget can barely accommodate the cost of a new system before factoring in setup costs, it’s better to wait. In the meantime, invest in targeted repairs and upgrades that optimize your computing experience and buy time before the eventual replacement.
- You’re Worried That Your System Is Infected
If you’re worried that your current computer is infected with spyware, viruses, trojans or other types of malware, you’re not alone. Millions of U.S. computers, and countless more around the world, are infected too.
However, the mere fact that your computer system has been infiltrated by malware does not mean it’s useless, you just need malware protection. In many cases, hiring a reputable professional to diagnose and clean your system, then installing a quality anti-malware program that automatically updates as new threats emerge, can extend your computer’s useful (and safe) lifespan by years.
- Your Operating System Is Outdated
Outdated operating systems can cause a host of problems for computer users, particularly if and when the manufacturer ceases providing regular updates. At this point, it’s natural to assume that replacing your computer is the only option, but in most cases, a simple operating system update (costing perhaps $100 and taking a few hours to complete) is all that’s needed.
- You’re Low on Memory
Older computers tend to have less RAM (working memory) and disk space. Both deficiencies can negatively impact system performance, especially for gamers and those who need lots of physical storage space. The good news: It’s easy (and relatively inexpensive) to add more RAM to an existing computer that’s otherwise in good working order.
Is your computer starting to show its age? Are you set on replacing it, or is a repair job in the cards?
