Remote Support Pros and Cons

Remote Support Pros and Cons

When and why, you should use Remote Support

If you have ever had a sudden computer problem, (and who has not), you know it can be stressful. So much of our day-to-day life requires having access to a working computer.

Whether you are trying to get business done, or doing personal tasks such as homework, budgeting, paying bills, or browsing dinner recipes all have a degree of urgency. Your computer technician offers two options: remote repair or bring it in. Which is the best choice for you?

Benefits of Remote Support

Speed: 

If remote repair is a possibility. Your technician can connect via the Internet and have you operational in no time. You might also choose to leave it turned on in the morning and go to work as normal. The tech logs in to conduct the repair and it is then ready for your return. Without this option, you would need to juggle time in your calendar to drop the system off at the shop. Most in-store hours are 9 to 5.

Convenience:

You get to skip the unpleasant tasks. Unplugging the PC, untangling the cables, and carting it into the repair store. Once repaired, you would still need to carry it back home and play a game of which-plug-goes-were.

Limitations of Remote Support

Hardware Issues: 

A remote connection can only be used to repair certain software problems, not hardware problems. It is impossible for the technician to swap out a failed part online. Guided physical repair is not practical. Unless you are confident in your own repair skills.

Sometimes the problem will be outside the computer. A troublesome peripheral or connection. Your technician may be able to walk you through some of these problems. But most always need a physical call-out or taking your computer in-store.

Connection speed: 

A slow or unstable connection will make a remote repair take longer. It also increases the difficulty of the task. The extended time affects the cost of the call. In extreme cases, it can negate any benefits of skipping the physical inspection. Your connection needs to be fast. The technician needs to see real-time responses as if they were sitting there in person.

Accessibility: 

If your computer will not start or cannot connect to the Internet at all, your technician cannot log in. This includes seeing a ‘blue screen of death,’ boot failure and Windows load failure. As much as they would like to help you, being able to log in to your system is a vital step in the remote repair process.

Conclusion

Remote support is ideal for speed and convenience and in most cases, it is the most efficient solution. As a bonus, if the remote repair is unsuccessful, it also means your tech now has a better idea of the problem. This can speed up any on-site or in-store repairs.  It is the best option for getting your computer working again with minimal disruption and the lowest cost.

Major Caveat:

Beware of the Fake Tech Support pop-ups that tell you something is wrong with your computer. Scammers can try to trick you into believing you have a problem so they can take your money. If you are not sure, call us!  

Need a repair? Call us at 877-686-6642 for rapid remote support. Be sure to ask about our Residential Protection Plan for home-users that includes all remote and in-store support.  We also have several different options for commercial clients as well.

‍