When something goes wrong with a computer, it’s not always something big, like a hard drive crash. Often, things can crop up that don’t necessarily keep you from using your PC, but just make it a little more inconvenient.
These can include a system getting slower and freezing up more than it used to as you multi-task. Or a laptop that you now need to keep open all the time because of a crack in the hinge.
Whether due to cost or inconvenience, some people will put off seeking out home computer repair in Framingham and then end up paying big consequences later.
It’s often the smallest things that can cause larger problems down the road if left unchecked. A freeze during multi-tabbed browsing or a computer heating up more than usual during use might not make your system unusable today, but if left unrepaired can put it out of commission later or signal something worse.
Putting Off Computer Repairs Can Lead to Costly Consequences
There are a number of reasons that someone might put off a computer repair.
- They don’t want to spend the money right now
- They don’t have time to take it into a shop
- They’re worried about COVID-19
- They can’t be without their PC while it’s getting fixed
- They think the issue will “work itself out”
- They keep meaning to do it “tomorrow”
Most home computer users don’t realize that a majority of problems can be handled via remote support. Just about any issue, besides those needing a parts repair, can be addressed by a technician just by securely connecting to your PC.
This reduces costs, eliminates the need to leave your PC at a shop, and can be done in very little time.
But whether the issue is internal or external, it’s important to get it addressed as soon as possible, or one of the following bad things can happen.
Spyware/Identity Theft
Say you begin to hear a “processing sound” in the background more frequently when you’re not doing anything memory intensive or installing an update.
You may just deal with the slight slowdown and put off having it checked because it’s only causing minimal disruption. But this could be spyware that you downloaded accidentally and that has been logging your keystrokes, including your bank account login and credit card details.
Cybercrime has risen dramatically during the coronavirus pandemic. According to the FBI’s Cyber Division, reports of things like phishing attacks and identify theft have just about quadrupled, from 1,000 complaints per day to 3,000 to 4,000 being received every day.
Spyware is designed to hide, but computer technicians know where to look for it. Putting off this type of computer repair can cost you big time.
Hard Drive Crash
Another problem that should be repaired right away, but some people put off is a computer that’s becoming increasingly hot. A laptop or iMac might start heating up as it’s used, but not causing any other immediate user issues.
Ignoring this sign of trouble can lead to a meltdown and hard drive crash, which causes you to lose everything on your PC, plus you may have to replace it entirely due to heat damage.
Extensive Laptop Damage
If you’re working on a cheap laptop, they often will have lower quality materials used for the casing. Such as plastic rather than metal. This can lead to issues with cases cracking and becoming damaged just from normal opening and closing.
If you’re holding the side of the screen together with duct tape or figure that you’ll just be more careful and it will be “okay” until you can find the time to have it fixed, you could end up with a much more expensive repair.
Laptop damage from a cracked hinge or casing can leave tiny pieces of plastic behind inside your laptop. Unchecked, these can cause much more damage than the initial problem.
Virus/Malware Infection
Just like spyware, viruses and malware can infect your computer, but not make themselves known right away. There are typically small signs, like unexpected reboots or system slowdowns, that a user might overlook, thinking “I’ll get that checked out at some point.”
But in the background the malware can be using your computer as a bot to send phishing attacks or be using it to infect other devices on your home network.
A computer pro can quickly diagnose issues like these remove the virus/malware and offer PC security solutions to stop reinfection.
Inability to Use Keyboard
You had a close call with a coffee spill on your laptop keyboard, but now it seems okay. But if you don’t have your computer properly checked out for any needed repairs, you could wake up tomorrow with your “e” key not working – or all of them!
Once moisture gets into a keyboard, if it’s not completely remediated, it can continue to make its way into other areas and cause serious problems that basically make your keyboard (and entire laptop) unusable.
Get Fast, Professional Computer Repairs at Pro Tech Guy
Our team at Pro Tech Guy understands how important each person’s home computer is to them. We’ll take care of whichever repairs we can remotely, and if it’s a component problem, we’ll get your PC fixed and back to you as fast as possible.
Don’t put off those Framingham home computer repairs! Contact us today for peace of mind. Call 508-364-8189 or reach us online.