When to call in help and what to look for

Some of us know a little bit about computers, some of us even know a lot, but nobody knows everything about computers.  I have been working with computers for over a decade and I learn something new almost everyday. 

I have helped people who have told me that they have spent hours, days, and even weeks trying to troubleshoot their computer problems only to dig themselves in deeper.  They ended up buying things that they didn't need, calling computer manufacturer's tech support tolling up charges over the phone or having that friend or relative who wasn't quite up to the task come over.

There is a time when professional help should be called in.  In the end this would not only save you lots of time but money too.  When looking for professional computer help I would not recommend taking your computer to a shop unless you want your computer upgraded.  When you take your computer to a shop, not only is there the hassle of unplugging everything and having to reconnect it all but you don't get to deal with the repair person one and one and tell them what is issues are and the particulars as to how they came to be.   I would recommend that you find a good, reliable, computer technician through referral if possible.  Ask friends, relatives or co-workers if they have used a technician and if so ask if they would recommend that technician.  Picking a technician out of the phone book is not the best way, but at least it shows that they are established.   You might also look up your local computer users group.  With this collection of computer aficionados there is always someone who knows how to fix it or can at least make a good recommendation.