Some Awesome Ways to Learn Basic Computer Troubleshooting

Whether it’s dealing with your dad’s decade-old computer or your own custom-built gaming rig, troubleshooting computer problems is a part of any computer’s lifespan, even if it’s not done daily. Of course, it’s good to be subscribed to a professional technical support company, but there are the simple problems that you may be able to handle if you only knew what to do. Ever heard of the common stories from tech support call centers about the caller who complained that his computer won’t turn on no matter how much he pressed the ‘on’ button? When the tech support agent asked the caller if he plugged the computer in the wall socket, the caller complied, and when he turned on the computer, the caller remarked, “My computer turned on; you’re a genius!”

However, let’s get something straight. Learning basic troubleshooting doesn’t take away anything from professional tech support personnel. It takes experience, training, and even a degree to learn how to fix and repair hardware problems. Professional tech support people had to go through school and on-the-job trainings, as well as taking a battery of exams just to earn a tech support license. So, let’s not forget them even as we seek ways to learn some basic troubleshooting.

Self-Learning or Do-It-Yourself

If you have the time to learn by yourself, or you’re the DIY type, the Internet has literally millions of sites and online resources dedicated to learning basic troubleshooting. If you’re subscribed to a tech support company, their official site usually has a page or pages dedicated to basic troubleshooting. As an example, take a look at this knowledgebase from Supportrix. If you’re using Microsoft OS and Windows, their official site has pages dedicated to basic troubleshooting. Other reliable sites that you can find troubleshooting tips and lessons are from reputable PC magazines and review sites. For video tutorials for basic troubleshooting, you can always turn to the ever reliable YouTube and type DIY basic troubleshooting in your search.

Short Seasonal Workshops

Occasionally and in many cities, colleges, universities, or major technology companies offer seasonal hands-on workshops that come with registration fees. They usually last from a couple of days to a week, depending on the type of training given. They are seasonal because they are usually given during spring breaks, summer vacations, or on long weekends, maximizing on the number of people who are free during these seasons. Search online for these or be observant of posters or ads announcing these workshops. They are worth your time.

Short Courses at Schools

Colleges, universities, and schools that specialize in computer science courses often offer short courses that range in 6 months to 1 year in duration. Some short courses are also really short are 2 to 3 months. If you have the money to spare, a course on basic troubleshooting will really go a long way for you or your small business. And the diploma on your wall can earn you bragging rights as well.