Thinking about fixing computers for money...?

Question

I need a way to make some extra money & I figure I could do so by speeding up people's slow computers & making sure they have decent security.

I've come up with a list of things that I could do, but I'm looking for more suggestions.

Here's my list:

Optimization:
● Disable unnecessary startup apps & services
● Disable unnecessary visual effects
● Disable windows sounds
● Optimize TCP/IP settings
● Optimize paging file
● Optimize Prefetcher
● Reduce Recycle Bin & Sys Restore space usage
● Uninstall unnecessary/redundant apps
● Disable indexing
● Defrag hard drive
● Remove invalid registry entries and defrag it
● Scan hard drive for errors
● Remove junk data
● Scan for spyware

Security:
● Download latest software/hardware updates/drivers/etc.
● Configure automatic updates
● Configure firewall
● Install antivirus & antispyware
● Disable Windows Messenger
● Enable DEP

I think that covers it, but is there anything else I could include?

Also, how much should I charge?

Thanks.

I'd also like to add that I'm not too comfortable with the idea of working from the client's home (for multiple reasons), so I plan on advertising that I'll pick up their PC, do my work from the comfort of my own home, then have return the PC in 24 hrs (or same day, if possible).

My question is, how can I ensure my trust that they'll get their computer back and that I'm not trying to scam them (it probably doesn't help that I'm only nineteen)?

I figure I can play this to an advantage by advertising that they won't have to worry about being stuck at home for 1-3 hours because I do the work at my place, thus letting them have the freedom of going to work or wherever they might have to go. How does that sound?

Answer 1

You'd have a hard time convincing me to give you my computer to take home. I'm afraid that I wouldn't know if you are reputable. perhaps you could advertise that you'll do it for free for the first 10 customers. Then, make an agreement with them that you can give their name and number for a reference to future clients. If I could know that you have done a good job for others, I might let you fix my computer.