Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Below you’ll find answers to the most commonly asked questions you may have. Contact Us if you can’t find the answer.
What Services Does iQ Computer Services Offer?
iQ Computer Services does much more than computer repair. On-site IT support services, virus removal, and data recovery. Our lesser-known services include password resets, computer recycling, and secure data wipe.
How long will it take to repair my computer?
Computer repair serv turn-around time depends on many factors. These include our current workload, difficulty in diagnosing, part shipping, and backorders. You can expect a typical repair to take 3 to 5 business days. Get same-day PC repair for memory upgrades, software issues, or hard drive installations.
What computers do you service?
Get repair for major brand computers. Bring your Acer, Apple, Asus, Dell, Google, HP, IBM, Lenovo, Samsung, Sony, and Toshiba computers.
Do you work with other operating systems, such as Linux?
Yes! iQ will install and upgrade Linux distributions, including Ubuntu, Mint, Fedora, and CentOS, to name a few.
My computer runs slow. Do you fix viruses and spyware?
You might have a virus. Let us scan your computer for virus infections. Call us at (703) 594-7271 (VA) or (301) 678-9840 (MD) for a virus removal estimate.
Do you charge for your services?
Yes, pricing is a flat rate for most issues.
What are flat rates?
A fixed fee for a service or project, regardless of time, is flat pricing.
What is a repair part?
A repair part is a professionally installed part. iQ recycles faulty parts.
You Should Know
Will I need to drop off anything besides the computer?
When bringing your laptop for repair, please bring the AC adapter or power cord. We need to test that too. We have the cables and accessories for a desktop computer to get it up and running.
Why does iQ Computer Services work by appointment and not walk-ins?
Appointments give you the best service experience. Waiting in line stinks. Scheduling appointments allow us to serve you and manage our time. If you are unsure of an exact time, let’s set a range for the morning or afternoon. For immediate help, please call ahead to check our availability.
What type of warranty do you provide on your repair work?
Most new laptop screens come with a 1-year warranty service. Other parts warranties vary.
Is there a return policy on parts?
You cannot return parts.
Can I wait while you repair my computer?
No, there is no waiting area. You may drop off your item and wait in your car for short repairs.
What do you mean by your 100% satisfaction guarantee?
Our 100% satisfaction guarantee means we resolved the issue. Only pay the diagnostic fee if our technicians cannot fix your computer issue. Please pay once you agree to the price and work. The guarantee applies to all repair work.
How much is too much to spend?
Sometimes the repair cost is more than what your computer is worth. We’ll tell you if replacing your computer with a new model makes more sense. Generally, if your computer is over four years old, it is often better to replace it. We’ll help you make an informed decision. Buy a new computer and get files transferred from the old one. After our diagnosis quote, you decide what option is best for you.
Does my warranty cover software problems or viruses?
Software problems or viruses/spyware are not covered under the manufacturer’s warranty. The factory warranty covers the failure of the hardware components due to defects.
Business Services
What Business Services Does iQ Computer Services Offer?
iQ Computer Services offers more than laptop repair and computer help. Get tech support and network help, install firewalls, and set up backup plans.
Does iQ Computer Services perform contract business computer services?
Yes. On annual contracts, small business clients have remote, computer on-site services and emergency support. Please call (703) 594-7271 (VA) or (301) 678-9840 (MD) for details.
Repair Services
What Desktop Services Does iQ Computer Services Offer?
iQ Computer Services offers help with hardware and software issues. Book in-home or office diagnostic and repairs, file recovery, spyware removal, and more.
What Laptop Services Does iQ Computer Services Offer?
Get help with broken screens, broken power jacks, keyboard problems, and USB ports. Typical repairs include WiFi issues, start-up problems, motherboards, hard drives, and DVD drives.
Can you repair or replace laptop screens?
We can usually repair broken laptop screens within one week. It is generally worth repairing laptops less than four years old.
Do you repair printers?
Yes, we can help with your printer. Most often, this issue requires a computer technician visit. iQ offers in-home support for these issues.
Can you help with my telephone, TV, home theater, or game system?
No. We do not offer home entertainment services.
Do you repair Apple MacBook computers with screens, keyboards, hard disks, and memory?
Yes. Learn more about Apple repairs.
Does iQ Computer Services repair mobile devices?
iQ Computer Services offers android software repair and Windows tablet services. Recover lost or deleted files and set up an automated backup. We do not repair cell phone screens. For more information on this, visit our site iqandroid.com.
Can you help me if I buy my computer parts from elsewhere?
Yes, we can assemble any computer provided it has the necessary parts. Bringing components from several different sources can cause compatibility issues. Let us review your parts first.
What is a customer-installable part?
If tools or computer disassembly aren’t needed, then it is customer installable. Examples include external laptop batteries, AC adapters, desktop keyboards, and mice.
Common Issues
Why does my computer shut itself down all the time?
Several things could be the cause. It may be a faulty hardware component, such as a power supply, memory module, motherboard, or video card. Please bring it to us to check it out.
Why does my computer get super hot?
Your computer is overheating. There are many possible causes. Your fans are probably clogged with dust. If your laptop feels hot, act quickly to prevent permanent damage. Bring it in for internal cleaning.
When I’m watching a video or playing a game, my computer gets a blue screen or shuts down. What’s wrong with it?
This can happen if your computer gets too hot or you have a lot of programs running. You may need more memory to meet your usage requirements. Please call us at (703) 594-7271 (VA) or (301) 678-9840 (MD) for help assessing the situation.
I noticed my CD/DVD drive does not read discs anymore or won’t eject. Do I need a new drive?
The answer is most likely yes. Sometimes this condition can be repaired, but other times the disc drive may be a lost cause. If you have a PC, you are in luck because replacement optical drives are inexpensive. Apple DVD drives and the labor involved is usually more expensive, so it may be better to get an external drive.
I accidentally dropped my laptop computer. Now it’s not working properly. Is repair possible?
It may be possible to repair your laptop. First, we’ll check it and assess the cause. Please provide information about the damage and your computer’s symptoms. Don’t use your damaged computer because it can make the damage worse.
I cracked my laptop screen. Can you fix it? How long will it take?
Yes. iQ can fix your broken computer screen. We will order the part for you and install it. The average time for this repair is around 3 to 5 business days. We also offer rush services and can do it for you in about 1 to 2 business days.
Is my computer worth repairing?
The age of your computer is a big factor if it should be repaired. When your computer is four years old, buying a new one would probably be best.
My hard drive is physically broken. Can you still recover my data?
This varies on how the drive is broken. Whether an external hard drive or an internal hard drive, it’s possible to recover your data. When in-house recovery fails, our data recovery partner helps in extreme cases. If you hear a strange clicking noise or your computer is not powering on, call us at (703) 594-7271 (VA) or (301) 678-9840 (MD).
I spilled liquid inside my computer. Is it possible to repair the damage?
It depends on how much liquid spilled and how long ago it happened. You should turn it off, unplug it and bring it in immediately. The sooner you bring the computer in, the better for success.
Your Safety
I’m afraid to leave my sensitive information. Why should I trust you?
It’s smart to have concerns about your privacy. Rest easy with background-checked technicians and administrative staff. Technicians possess industry security certifications and training. Our owner is a military Veteran. He safeguarded sensitive, mission-critical information daily. Hear what previous client testimonials and reviews say about their experience with us.
Check out our Testimonial page to see what clients are saying about us.
How can I keep my data safe?
Always back it up! If you don’t have an external drive, get one. Automated backup software takes the hassle out of backing up your important data. Keep many backups in separate locations if possible.
Is it safe to click on links in emails or instant messages?
It is unsafe unless you are absolutely 100% sure of the message source. Many scams, spam, and viruses are finding their way into computers worldwide. Stay safe rather than sorry. Be careful with social networking, file sharing, and other questionable websites.
Should I stop using file-sharing programs and websites? If so, why?
Yes, you should stop for many compelling reasons. First and most obviously, it’s illegal to steal content. Second, many sites are hosts of malicious software that can infect your computer. Use a trusted source online, such as Netflix, iTunes, or Amazon, for your digital content.
Gaming Computer Builds
Do you build custom computers?
Yes, we build custom desktop computers for gaming and professional use. After you choose the parts that meet your needs, our experts will build and configure your system. Bring us your parts list for approval before the build.
How does the pricing work?
Basic custom PC builds fall into Tier 1 and include installing a motherboard, CPU processor, RAM Memory, HDD or SSD storage, and power supply PSU – $129.99
Most Tier 2 custom PC builds include installing a motherboard, CPU processor, RAM Memory, HDD or SSD Storage, power supply PSU and Operating System – $199.99
Tier 3 Custom PC builds include installing a motherboard, CPU processor, RAM Memory, HDD or SSD storage, power supply PSU, Operating System, graphics card, and closed-loop water cooling – $299.99
Do you do Intel or AMD-based builds?
iQ builds both Intel and AMD custom computers.
What if I don’t know exactly what to get for my custom build?
Our expert PC builders are knowledgeable in the latest components and compatibility issues. Talk it over with our expert to help select what will best meet your needs.
What if I am not a gamer?
Custom builds are not only for gamers. We design systems for all users, from students to business professionals. We’ll create the perfect computer system for you.
How long does it take to go from boxes of parts to a working computer?
It depends on the level of complexity of the build. Most custom builds are eligible for rush same-day service. Regular turn-around time averages between 3 to 5 business days.
Feedback and Reviews
Where can I leave a review/testimonial to share my experience with my online friends?
iQ Computer Services loves it when our clients share their experiences with others. You can leave a review on Google or email us at info@iqcomputerservices.com for links to review sites.
Where is iQ Computer Services Located?
iQ Computer Services is conveniently located at 4215 Downing St Annandale, VA 22003. Our Maryland location is 12506 Guinevere Rd, Glenn Dale, MD 20769
Check out our contact us page for more details and a descriptive map.
How can I connect with you online so I don’t miss out on what you’re doing?
You can connect with iQ Computer Services in a few ways:
You can… Like Us on Facebook