Where
and How to Get It
Well
there’s no denying it – No matter how new or how well maintained our computers
are, we all encounter computer problems sooner or later. The good news is that
we don’t have to face them alone. There are a ton of resources available to
walk us through computer issues but it may take a little knowledge in knowing
how to access them. This article will show you how.
1.
Remember
help files. It’s funny, but people seem to forget that every computer and every
program installed on a computer comes with its own help file. Even the
operating system of a computer has a help file and it really should be the
first place to look for answers. Help files are designed not only to guide the
usage of a computer, but they’re also
designed to solve 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.
2.
Product
websites. If you’re having a problem with a piece of software or with a
hardware part, try the website of that software or hardware manufacturer.
Most (if not all) manufacturers reserve a portion of cyberspace and dedicate
it to support the products that they build. Microsoft’s help desk is a good
example.
3.
Fan
sites. Fansites probably isn’t a good name for this resource, but you can find
websites that are dedicated to supporting the users of a particular
software program or piece of hardware. We’ve called them “fan sites” because
the maintainers of these sites have no affiliation with the manufacturers that
they support! Call them what you will, but their free help is immeasurable and
without it, we wouldn’t have some of the wonderful workarounds and unique
problem-solving techniques that we have today.
4.
Usenet
newsgroups. Another underused resource on the Internet, Usenet newsgroups have
hundreds of discussion groups dedicated to some of the most popular computer
systems, operating systems, hardware manufacturers, and individual software
programs. Sometimes, the representatives of these companies participate, but
most of the time, the support in this group is user to user, which is just as
valid because you’re
working with a team of experienced people.
working with a team of experienced people.
5.
Support
Lines. Another source of help that we shouldn’t forget is the support systems
of various manufacturers. You can reach these systems by calling the phone
number associated with the product that you’re having trouble with. Calls may
be free (1-800 or 1-877 number), or they may cost a small fee (1-900).
6.
PC
support groups or user groups are other options for help. These are groups
that meet in libraries, computer stores, or other local areas and they discuss
all sorts of issues related to a particular product. Even if you aren’t
experiencing a computer or software problem, user groups are fun to participate
in and they can help you network into other interests such as a job or teaching
opportunities.
7.
Surprisingly,
you may even get a helping hand from the salespersons at your local computer
store. We don’t recommend that you make this your first pit stop when you
experience a problem, but we don’t recommend that you rule this option out
altogether either. Computer salespersons are hired for a reason – and that’s
their knowledge. Often, these kind folks can help you resolve an issue over the
phone and prevent you from having to buy a costly solution.
As you
can see, help is easy to find - You’ve just got to know where to look for it.
Most of the contacts within these resources are extremely friendly and willing
to take the time to walk you through a problem at little to no cost. From
online discussion groups to the files on your own computer, help is often just
a click away.
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