Forgotten Windows Password? Don't worry I can fix that.
Laptop running slow? I can have a look at that for you and make improvement suggestions.
Running Windows 7, 8 or 8.1? It's time for a new computer as Microsoft and other software providers do not support these out of date operating systems (see end of life information). If your computer is just for light use it could be saved by installing Linux Mint.
RAM Memory & Hard Drives could be upgraded slightly for about £50 but you may only get another 6-12 months of practical use out of it. I can help you source a suitable new computer to meet your budget.
Running Windows 10? Don't panic. You will get Windows security updates until 14th October 2025 and software providers will also provide support until at least that date so don't worry. It's a relatively stable and easy to use operating system, with good support. RAM Memory & Hard Drive upgrades for £40-£100 can be suitable.
Looking for reliable software for everyday use? I've got a list of software that I recommend.
If you need something that's not listed then message me and I'll compare and test alternatives for you.
ChromeOS: These are limited to Android Apps and some apps are not compatible. Only recommended for online use, such as YouTube, Facebook, Music streaming, etc. Download storage is also usually very limited and is best used with Google Cloud Drive.
MacBooks: As with all Apple products they are very restrictive and overpriced for the spec.
FEES: A deposit, usually £20, will be required for provision of services. The balance due upon completion.
After service support: If you "opt in" I will provide future updates that may be required based upon your operating system.
This will be an email support notification and there will be no fee required.
For example if you are using Windows 10+ or Linux Mint I will advise you of end of support dates by which you will need to upgrade to continue getting security and system updates.
If you have a Windows Laptop or Desktop PC then I can help by providing a health check, upgrade services and remote assistance. Just because it's old doesn't mean that it's scrap, if it's running Windows 10.
Home/Office visits for Desktop PCs available on request.
I can provide servicing and upgrading of your current computer, with new RAM Memory, Hard Drive, Battery ,etc. Pre-Windows 10 computers are not worth upgrading due to lack of support by Microsoft and other software companies.
With Windows 10/11 it may be worth just re-installing Windows, which is easy to do, but you will need to re-install most of your software, so you may need license keys for some of these.
If you just use the Internet and and Office Package then I can set you up with Linux Mint, which is simple to use and less power hungry than Windows. It can also be installed alongside Windows so you can decide if you want to use Windows or Linux when you boot your computer. This can be a good way to get used to a new system without starting from scratch.
RAM upgrades from £20. Hard drive upgrades from £20. Admin & Fitting approx £10-£20
The expected life of new laptop would be 3-5 years, although minor upgrades may be able to extend life further. Most computers are at end of life after 7-8 years and I would recommend replacement.
If you literally just need to browse and use basic office features then the Budget option will be enough. For downloading music and video you will need at least a Mid Range option.
The more software you require and more you use your computer the higher the spec you need. More powerful processor, more RAM and larger Hard Drive. RAM and Hard Drives can be upgraded at a later date, relatively cheaply.
My recommendations will usually be based on the following guide:
Budget: up to £400 - Intel i3, 4GB RAM, 128GB HD
Mid Range: £500-£600 - Intel i3/i5, AMD Ryzen 5, 8GB RAM, 256GB HD
Standard: around £800 - Intel i5, AMD Ryzen 5, 8-16GB RAM, 512GB HD
Office: around £1000 - Intel i7, AMD Ryzen 7, 16GB-32GB RAM, 1TB HD
Gaming: around £2000 - Intel i7/i9 AMD Ryzen 7/9, 32GB RAM, 2TB HD
Sale Prices are ideal for getting a higher spec laptop for a lower price and it may be worth waiting 2-4 weeks for a deal.
Software that will usually be set up for you, will include: Google Chrome & Firefox browsers, LibreOffice, Foxit DPF Reader, VLC & IrfanView for Music, Video & Images. Extras such as Zoom, BlueMail and other software as required.
A fee of £50 includes consultation, full setup, updates and installations - based on 3-6 hours, depending on your personal requirements.
£50+
If you have any problems with a machine that I have serviced, or set-up for you then please contact me.
I can provide on-line support or local meet-up support.
Support will be offered for up to 3 years from the original work and charged at an agreed rate.
Online support via Microsoft Quick Assist
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Release, Active Support & Security Support End Dates for Windows Operating Systems
Active and supported operating systems:
04 Oct 2021 - Windows 11 (OS10) - current version receiving regular updates and support
29 Jul 2015 - Windows 10 (OS10) - 14 Oct 2025 - 14 Oct 2025 (suitable for upgrades)
Recently unsupported operating systems - not suitable for upgrades:
13 Nov 2013 - Windows 8.1 (OS6.3) - 09 Jan 2018 - 10 Jan 2023 (computer will need replacing asap)
Redundant operating systems that should not be used online and only used for retro purposes
30 Oct 2012 - Windows 8 (OS6.2) - 12 Jan 2016 - 12 Jan 2016 (OS replaced with 8.1)
22 Feb 2011 - Windows 7 (OS6.1) - 13 Jan 2015 - 14 Jan 2020
29 Apr 2009 - Windows Vista (OS6) - 10 Apr 2012 - 11 Apr 2017
21 Apr 2008 - Windows XP SP3 (OS5.1) - 14 Apr 2009 - 08 Apr 2014