March 10th, 2010 | 
Author: Last year, I started doing simple computer support for individuals as a way to bring in some extra money. Basically, I’m the help for those who are pretty much CLUELESS when it comes to computers, Internet, etc. Most of my jobs include basic things as setting up a computer/printer, etc out of the box, downloading updates and installing programs, setting up Internet service, etc. I also do a lot of virus and spyware removal. I usually just charge a base rate or charge by the hour depending.
I would like to get more training/education on things I am not as sure about, but on a basic level like this. Basic systems/hardware/software/recovery/setup stuff. I’ve gotten stuck a couple of times so I just want to know as much as possible on the basic level before I start doing more work (my demand has been increasing).
That being said, where or how could I get this training? Can I get the training in college courses? Or should I take a course elsewhere? Can I get it from certain books?
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You could try the course material and exam for CompTIA A+ certification. This provides informatoin, as well as a widely accepted cridential that can improve your trustability.
Local community/technical colleges will usually have a computer maintenance and repair course that you could take. There are many books on the subject as well. I would look into CompTia A+ certification. A+ covers hardware, operating systems and basic networking.
There are a lot of IT places around that give classes that follow up with a final test/s to be certified. ITT, Signal learning are the 2 big ones i can think of. Classes will range in price from $1000-$5000 from what I have seen. Be ready though the classes get pretty technical but the ones your probably wanting are. Net+ its basically you basics in networking very useful when you need to share resources. A+ is deals with building computers and the components for repairing and upgrading. Then you got you various classes on like Windows XP.
BASIC DIGITAL SYSTEMS.Am happy that you can fix software/hardware related problems.But can you fix digital practical circuit related problems??? Perharps what was the most difficult task that you encountered and has not fixed yet??.I put these questions with good reasons and to get you started on a new project the right way!
http://www.e-learningcenter.com/basic_computer_training.htm
I agree with what the other poster said about starting with the CompTIA A+ certification test. The book I found was about $40, fairly comprehensive, and contained 4 practice tests so I could know if I’m doing OK and where I should concentrate my studies.
I’d also do a Google Search for some of the things you need and check University Websites. I know that I set up online help pages for all of the Microsoft Office and Macromedia (now Adobe) Studio products several years ago, and people still use them to this day.
(BTW, how did you advertise your business? Did you use Craigslist, Yellow Pages? I’ve been trying to set something up like that myself with no success.)