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, 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’s or
hardware’s manufacturer. Most (if not all) manufacturer’s reserve a portion of
cyberspace and dedicate it to support the products that they build. Microsoft’s
help desk is good example.
3.
Fan sites. Fan sites probably isn’t a good name for this
resource, but you can find websites that are dedicated toward 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 for help that we shouldn’t
forget are 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 another option for
help. These are groups that meet in libraries, computer stores, or other local
areas and they discuss all sorts of issues related with 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 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 form 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.
