the Cost of New Computer Set Up

I asked the technician if he could help with the installation of a new computer and making it wireless as well as part of our home network. He did all the installations, told us what router to order, came back to install it, checked everything, made one wireless, made all three computers in our house connected. He also left his cell phone if we need more help. Consult at no charge on a firewall issue.

The service was great, the price was great. He was a nice guy and very helpful. We would have had to sign a contract, pay a monthly fee to get the router and phone assistance through the cable company. This way, he told us what router to buy on-line, installed it and was able to set up the whole system. We would definitely call him again when we move or upgrade computers.

Talk to the person and see how talkative, friendly, helpful they are about computers.

Don't pursue it if he says he only knows how to trouble shoot for the company, if he says he doesn't know computers, believe him.

If he seems friendly and helpful, ask him about doing work on his own time. Ask him upfront about prices.

If he says it's against company policy, drop the subject.

Get his name and number or business call, ask if you can call if there is a problem.

Follow your gut instinct.

Ask around if anyone freelances computer work. Some charge a lot, some guys will do it for free but offer them cash anyway so you can get their expertise in the future.