• Install a new computer system
• Transfer files between computers
• Set up a wired network
• Set up a wireless network
• Optimize existing wireless network configuration
• Set up new equipment (printer, scanner, digital camera, mp3 player, etc.)
• Install new hardware (hard drive, video card, RAM, DVD Burner, etc.)
• Verify all necessary Windows updates are installed
• Optimize computer performance (see below)
• Troubleshoot any manner of computer problems
• MS Access database design
• MS Excel spreadsheet design

Operating System Install

If your system has completely crashed, your hard drive failed, you have a virus that just can't be cleaned or for whatever other reason, I can reinstall Windows for you. I will install a fresh copy of Windows along with all drivers, service packs and updates so your system is completely up to date. Please keep the following in mind:

• You need to have the proper Windows installation media and software key. If you do not have these, I will let you know the additional cost to purchase a valid Windows license.
• The amount quoted on the Rates page is for the Operating System Install only. These items will incur addtional charges:
• Back up existing data and restore to new operating system
• By default, the Desktop, Internet Favorites and My Documents will be backed up if you choose the backup option (or the equivalent folders in Vista). If there's any information in other places, you need to let me know specific directories so it can be backed up.
• Only data can be backed up, not programs. All software will need to be reinstalled, so be sure you have access to the installation disks for any needed programs.
• Replace faulty hardware, such as a bad hard drive.
• Installing additional sofware besides the Operating System.

Software Install

Do you need help setting up a new antivirus program or would like assistance installing some new software you purchased. I'll be happy to help. The amount quoted on the Rates page is for software install only. If you're installing a piece of hardware that comes with sofware, that falls under a different category.

Computer Setup

I'll come to your house and get your new pc set up. This includes the following:

• Remove from boxes and hook up all components.
• Configure for your existing internet connection.
• Install Windows service packs and updates (if you have an internet connection).
• Install a free antivirus program if you don't have any (if you have an internet connection).
• Hook up any peripherals, such as a printer or scanner.

• Copy data from an existing computer to your new one.
• By default, the Desktop, Internet Favorites and My Documents will be copied if you choose this option (or the equivalent folders in Vista). If there's any information in other places, you need to let me know specific directories so it can be copied also.
• Only data can be copied, not programs. All software will need to be reinstalled, so be sure you have access to the installation disks for any needed programs.
• Install additional software.

Automatic Data Backup

You probably have a lot of important data on your computer. If you have a digital camera, you may have thousands of pictures. Unless you don't mind potentially losing all of that information, I highly recommend you have some type of backup solution in place. Working in a corporate environment with 100's of machines under my control, I've seen many hard drives fail. Laptops are especially susceptible because they are bounced around more while the hard drive is spinning.

Spending a little money up front to back up your computer will give you the piece of mind that your data is safe. Data recovery on a failed hard drive can cost from $500 to over $1000 and requires your drive being sent to a special company which offers that service. On a personal note, I use the same method on my family's own pc's that I would use on yours. It has already saved my wife's data once.

If you already have an existing spare hard drive with enough capactiy, I'll configure your computer to back up to that drive. By default, your Desktop, Internet Favorites and My Documents will be backed up (or the equivalent folders in Vista). If you need any additional folders backed up, just let me know. If you need a drive, I'll let you know the cost, then purchase an external USB hard drive for you.

This method only backs up data. In the event your system crashed, your operating system and any additional software would need to be reinstalled. Windows Vista includes a program for making a recovery image. This backs up your entire drive. You can't copy individual files from a recovery image. It is mainly a disaster recovery utility in case your system completely crashes. A good combination with Vista is set up a recovery image plus a data backup. You can also do a recovery image with Windows XP, but additional sofware needs to be purchased.

Install / Replace one Hardware Device and Configure Necessary Sofware

You've run out of space and need to install a new hard drive. You bought a new all-in-one printer. You need to add more RAM or upgrade your video card. If you need to change or hook up any piece of hardware, I'll take care of that and install any necessary software or drivers.

Set Up Wireless Network

Wireless networking is great if you have a desktop pc that's not by your internet connection, or you have a laptop and want the freedom to work from anywhere in the house. I can get your wireless router properly configured and get your computers connected to it. An improperly configured access point can leave your network completely open to your neighbors. I've heard multiple stories of people using their neighbor's wireless access points because they had no security enabled.