Staples Free PC Tune Up

[iamgrumpy]

Staples always has a coupon in the flyer for a free PC tune up. Has anyone ever used this? What do they do & how much does it REALLY cost when they're done?

 

[gacompguy]

Honestly, there is nothing they are going to do that you can't do yourself. They'll probably make sure all of your software is updated, defrag your hard drive, and blow out the dust (which should really be sucked out with a vacuum). Honestly, I would never take any computer to a big box retailer of any kind. I've cleaned up behind way too many of them.

 

[hrslvr142]

Not to hijack this thread..just wondered gacompguy..could you elaborate on what an average "not techy" person could do to clean up their own computer? Of if you could just point me to a website with this info I would really appreciate it. My lap top runs great once I get it going but it takes quite awhile to "power up" and get the internet started. Thanks and again, sorry to hijack this.

 

[mafibisha]

Not to hijack this thread..just wondered gacompguy..could you elaborate on what an average "not techy" person could do to clean up their own computer? Of if you could just point me to a website with this info I would really appreciate it. My lap top runs great once I get it going but it takes quite awhile to "power up" and get the internet started. Thanks and again, sorry to hijack this.

I'd love to know, too!

 

[mykidslovesdisney]

We have used the service from staples twice in the last few years. They did clean it up- got it to run a bit faster. The last time I got a awful virus on the computer and couldn't do anything with it. They did get the virus removed and ran an check on the computer too.

I like the service. I am a non techy person so to say so I would rather let someone who knows what they are doing to take care of it.

They give you a check list - maybe 8 pages long on what was checked. If anything was found. and any recommendations if needed. IE more memory.

It is free and you are not obligated to pursue anything further.

HTH

 

[bonoriffic]

Not to hijack this thread..just wondered gacompguy..could you elaborate on what an average "not techy" person could do to clean up their own computer?

Without knowing the operating system you have and applications installed it is impossible to give specific steps. The generic plan of attack is:

1. Remove unused applications.
2. Remove unneeded files, includes cleaning temp system folders and caches.
3. Defragment / fix errors on your hard drive.
4. Scan for viruses / adware / spyware.
5. Check for unwanted startup applications.
6. Cleanup registry errors.
7. Fine tune settings, which would include adjusting internet and networking values that might not be optimal for your connection speed.

All the steps with the exception of #6 are simple and easy to do. Only #4 requires additional software to do (which you should never pay for) although #4 would benefit from software to automate that tedious task.