Where and How to Find Needed PC Assistance - Online PC Support

Well, there's no denying it - no matter how new or how well-maintained our computers are, we all meet up with computer problems sooner or later. The good news is that we do not have to face them alone. There are lots of resources on hand to assist us with personal computer issues, but it may take a little knowledge in knowing how to get them. This article will show you how to get online PC support.

1. Vendor websites. When you're having an issue with a software application or with a hardware part, try the website of that software's or hardware's supplier. Many (if not all) manufacturers set aside a section of cyberspace and use it to maintain the goods that they manufacture. Microsoft's help desk is an excellent example.

2. Don't forget help files. It's funny, but people often don't remember that every PC itself and every application installed on a personal computer has its own help file. Even the operating system of a PC comes with a help file, so this really should be the first place to look for solutions. Help files are designed not just to guide in the usage of a personal computer, they're also written to answer problems. Inside a help file, look for a section called, "Troubleshooting" (or something similar) when you need to resolve an issue. This section is reserved for solving problems specific to the software or hardware that you're using.

3. User groups. User groups probably isn't the best term for this resource, but you may access websites which are dedicated to supporting the users of a particular software application or piece of equipment. We call them "user groups" because the people who maintain such websites have no affiliation with the vendors which they support! Call them what you want, but this free advice is immeasurable and without it, we would not have some of the excellent workarounds and top-notch problem solving resources which we have today.

4. Usenet newsgroups. Another underutilized source on the WWW, Usenet newsgroups include hundreds of discussion groups dedicated to some of the most popular computer systems, operating systems, hardware suppliers, and various software applications. Sometimes, a few representatives of these suppliers participate, but most often, the help in such groups is between users, which is just as valuable because you are working with a group of experienced people.

5. Support Lines. Another resource for assistance that we should not forget are the support systems of different manufacturers. You can contact these systems by calling the phone number associated with the item which you are experiencing difficulties with. Calling might be toll-free (1-800 or 1-877 numbers), or it might cost a small amount (1-900).

6. PC support groups or computer clubs are another source for help. These are groups that meet in libraries, personal computer stores, or similar local areas, and they discuss all sorts of issues related with a particular product. Even if you aren't having a similar PC or software difficulty, support groups are interesting to participate in, because they may help you make contacts for similar interests, for example, work or educational possibilities.

7. Surprisingly, you may even get a helping hand from the salespeople at a local personal computer dealer. We don't recommend that you make this your initial resource if you experience difficulty, but we do not recommend that you ought to ignore this possibility altogether either. PC salespeople are employed for a reason - and that's their knowledge. Often these kind folks may assist you to solve an issue over the telephone and keep you from needing to buy a costly solution.

From this you can see that help is easy to find - you've just got to know where to hunt for it. Many of the people at these sources are extremely friendly and willing to take the time to step you through an issue at little to no cost. From online discussion groups, to the help files on your own PC, to online PC support, assistance is often just a click away.

Yours truly,

Bob Hosken
"Dr. Bob the CompuNerd"

Dr. Robert Hosken, the author, has accumulated more than 30 years of career work with computers. Starting in his teenage years he has established and run many companies and charitable entities. Get his free e-Book "How To Maintain Your Computer" and see the most efficient techniques to work with your computer at Online PC Support, see his Offsite Backups page, or email him at Robert@CompuNerds.Net - thanks!