How to be your own IT department

Remember back when we worked in more traditional offices and the IT department – or a tech-savvy co-worker – was just a call away? Those were great times, but this shift to working from home has given us all the opportunity to level up our skills and find our own IT solutions. Working out how to fix these problems yourself will streamline your home office operations, and give you a sense of satisfaction from solving a problem.

Restart Your Computer!

“Have you tried turning it off and on again?” is a question you’re often asked when you call tech support… and that’s because it usually works! “Restarting your computer at least once a week, and when you have a problem, helps. It stops all the processes the computer is running in the foreground and background, flushes the RAM, clears temporary files and speeds up the running of your computer,” says Jason Tavoletti, The Good Guys Buyer – Computers, Printers & Monitors.

When setting out to fix your computer, also check the obvious stuff like batteries and power plugs (at both ends as it’s easy to bump something without noticing) and keep your software up to date.

“Software updates are particularly important because they have security and efficiency updates. You should take the time to do all the necessary updates around once a week, to keep your computer running smoothly and safely,” says Jason Tavoletti.

Research Your Problem

The next thing on your list should be to Google the problem. Try to describe the issue in a couple of words like “[name of program] crashes when opened” or “[name of computer] fan really loud when [name of program] open”. Chances are someone else has had the same problem and found the solution.

“Restarting your computer at least once a week, and when you have a problem, helps. It stops all the processes running in the foreground and background, flushes the RAM, clears temporary files and speeds up the running of your computer.”

“Just make sure you look at reputable websites, like the product’s official support page, and only ever download official software – most programs claiming to ‘speed up’ your computer are just malware that is inconvenient at best, and thieving at worst,” says Jason Tavoletti.

Also, check your warranty. If the device is still within the warranty period, the manufacturer might have a customer help line you can access, and of course if you purchased your tech device from The Good Guys you can call your store of purchase for assessment and repair advice.

TIP - Consider adding Gold Service Extras to your valuable tech device purchase from The Good Guys, to get product care from day one – plus access Concierge Membership with a range of exclusive loyalty offers, such exclusive sales throughout the year and store credits that can be used to purchase consumables for your home office such as paper and printer ink or coffee pods

Ask The Experts

If all else fails, ask for help. You can head in store to ask one of our friendly experts here at The Good Guys. “Our team are experts with these devices and are only too happy to help,” says Jason Tavoletti.

Buy Well From The Start

The most important thing is to make sure you buy the right device to begin with. “There is so much choice these days that there’s something for everyone, but that can also be really overwhelming,” says award-winning technology journalist Alice Clarke. “Before buying anything, work out exactly what you want it to do, and then read reviews and buyers’ guides to make sure the device you’re looking for does what you need in a way you’ll enjoy.” 

If you need some help, or are ready to upgrade your computer or tablet, come and see us in-store or online. We have the biggest range at the lowest prices, as well as expert staff who love to help.