RESCUECOM Study Shows Most Common Computer Problems

"Windows Won't Start" and "Internet Connectivity Difficulties" Top the List of Most Frequently Cited Problems
RESCUECOM provides tips and one-hour on-site service to help ensure glitch-free holidays

As the holidays approach, computers and other technology-related items are expected to be among the nation's hottest gifts. Technology is also crucial for the businesses providing both on-line and traditional in-store shopping for the millions of consumers making their holiday purchases.

A recent study conducted by RESCUECOM, a leading North American franchised computer repair and technology services company, revealed the top problems technology users are experiencing and provides insight on issues holiday shoppers and businesses should be aware of to ensure a happy, glitch-free and safe holiday season.

"Whether it's a failed on-line purchasing attempt or losing all your stored pictures when you try to install the new digital camera you received for the holidays, there are few things more annoying than a holiday interrupted by problems with technology," said David A. Milman, CEO of RESCUECOM. "The good news is that there's much people can do to prevent such issues, and if they can't do it on their own, RESCUECOM can be at their home or office in less than an hour to solve their problem 24/7, 365 days a year - even on Christmas!"

In a nation-wide study that looked at more than 1,100 customer service calls received by RESCUECOM during the month of October, 2005, "Windows Won't Start" was the most frequently identified problem, experienced by 20 percent of customers. This was followed by "Internet Connectivity Difficulties" (17 percent); "Computer Running Very Slow" (16 percent); "Data Loss" (11 percent); "Printer Not Working" (6 percent) and "Networking Problems" (5 percent). "All Others" made up the remaining 25 percent.

There are several steps RESCUECOM recommends to prevent or troubleshoot these problems. In most cases, the first thing users should do is check all their connections, make sure all components (computer, monitor, printer, etc.) are turned on and then restart their computers. Additional recommendations include:

Windows Won't Start

"After checking all connections, turn off your computer, unplug all components and restart. If the problem persists, it is most likely a hardware issue. These are often the most difficult problems to deal with and generally require assistance from a qualified expert.

Internet Connectivity Difficulties

"After checking all wired and wireless connections, turn off and unplug your cable or DSL modem. Wait 30 seconds, plug in the modem and restart your computer. If this doesn't work, malicious software or altered network settings may be the cause, which can sometimes be mitigated by utilizing commercial virus and spyware removal software. You may also want to try reinstalling your Internet Service Provider (ISP) software.

Computer Running Very Slow

"Spyware/Viruses -- Most often computer sluggishness is caused by multiple viruses or spyware that has infected your computer (most computers have some sort of spyware on them). These programs are designed to popup advertisements, track your computer usage or even steal your identity. They also consume valuable resources and can be more than just a nuisance. The fix may be as simple as going to websites such as Norton.com, TrendMicro.com and even Microsoft.com, which all offer trial versions of anti-virus, spyware and virus protection software to detect and remove malicious software.

"Clean Up Your Computer - Many programs also unnecessarily start automatically when your computer starts up. Taking these non-critical programs out of your "Start Up" folder can dramatically speed up your computer. Similarly, removing unneeded software can free up resources to improve your computer's performance.

"Set Up Automatic Windows Updates -- By running Windows Update you install the latest patches and software. This will reduce your risk of viruses, spyware and may speed up your computer

"Run Defrag and Scan Disk -- There may be errors on your hard disk drive that are slowing down your computer. Programs such as defrag and scandisk will identify these errors and optimize your hard drive for maximum performance.

Data Loss

"The most effective defense against data loss is a solid back up system with offsite data storage. This is an absolute must. Users should also be sure to enable their "auto-save" function, which automatically saves their work every few minutes. These saved, or partially saved documents may be retrieved depending on the type of data loss experience. For extreme situations where significant data loss is detected, users should immediately shut down and unplug their system to prevent future harm and data loss, and then call in an expert to help retrieve the data.

Printer Not Working

"Check all connections and restart your printer. If your computer still doesn't recognize your printer, go to your control panel, click "Printers and Faxes," click on "Add a Printer" and follow directions. This problem may also be fixed by checking to ensure the paper tray is not empty and toner cartridge is adequately full.

Networking Problems

"When setting up either a wireless network, or a file-sharing system, ensure that your computer has the appropriate firewalls, encryption, and a non-obvious password to protect important files and data on your computers. If your wireless network keeps disconnecting, make sure your router and your cordless telephone are set to different frequencies. This may be as simple as changing the channel of your cordless phone, many of which come with up to 11 channels.

Added Milman, "Of course, when all else fails, calling in an expert at (614) 600-1862 who can quickly be on site will ensure a connected and trouble-free holiday season."

About RESCUECOM

RESCUECOM is a North American franchised computer repair and technology services company that provides on site, 24/7 service from coast to coast. All local RESCUECOM franchisees offer guaranteed results and on-site, emergency one-hour response service with or without a contract, providing the industry's fastest response and easiest relationship.

RESCUECOM services everything from home computers to super computers, wireless Internet to global networks, hardware to software, e-mail to ERP. In addition to one-time, on-site solutions for virtually any computer problem, RESCUECOM provides comprehensive, ongoing IT management services for businesses. Since 1997, RESCUECOM has been providing the "last mile of IT services" to consumers and SMBs.

RESCUECOM has been recognized by Entrepreneur Magazine in 2002, 2003 and 2004 as part of the "Franchise 500," as one of the fastest growing franchise companies in the United States. For more information, please visit www.RESCUECOM.com or call (614) 600-1862