Thinking about taking your computer to the repair shop – think again!

It may seem harmless to pop your laptop or desktop computer in the car and take it to a repair shop. But according to Vidit Sehgal, tech expert and founder of V4 IT, Australia's fastest-growing onsite tech support service, doing so could not only damage your device in transit, it could also expose it to unnecessary risk when you're not around to supervise.
 

"We've seen clients go from a simple software issue to a cracked screen, a loose hard drive or a machine that no longer powers on, all because it was thrown in the back seat," Sehgal said.
 

Sehgal explained that often, the best solution is to have a technician come to your home or business to fix the computer on site. There are a number of important reasons why.
 

The dangers of driving with your device

"Most people don't realise that laptops and desktop computers are far more sensitive to movement, heat and impact than they appear. Even a short trip can expose your tech to sudden jolts and rough handling," Sehgal said.
 

"Desktop towers are particularly vulnerable with internal components like motherboards and graphic cards easily dislodged if moved incorrectly. For laptops, cracked screens, cable strain and even data loss are not uncommon consequences of unprotected transport."
 

Sehgal explained that while the intention may be good, the execution often causes more problems than it solves.
 

"A computer is not a gym bag. It can't be thrown onto the back seat and bounced around, it's a finely tuned piece of hardware," he added.
 

Do you really know what happens when you leave your computer at a repair shop?

Sehgal also raised an important question many don't consider: what happens to your computer once you hand it over?
 

"When you leave your device at a tech shop, you lose all oversight. Who's accessing your files? Is your data protected? Is your laptop just sitting on a shelf for a week before anyone touches it?" he asked.
 

"The answer is, you don't know and that's a problem, especially for people who store sensitive business or personal information.

"Ideally, you want a technician to perform all services where possible on site, in your home or workplace, where you can be present and informed throughout the entire process.
 

"Nothing leaves your sight. Nothing disappears behind a bench. You see everything that's done and you have the chance to ask questions in real time."
 

Onsite IT services offer a safer, smarter alternative

By delivering expert support where the device lives and works, this removes the need to disconnect, relocate or risk damaging your tech.
 

Technicians can assess not just the device but the entire digital environment, from Wi-Fi to connected printers and power issues ensuring a more accurate diagnosis and solution.
 

"Tech problems often aren't just about the machine. They're about how the machine interacts with the space around it," Sehgal explained.
 

"That's why onsite troubleshooting works. It's real-world, in-context and far more effective."
 

One small mistake could cost you big

Sehgal encouraged Australians to rethink the default setting of "drop it off and hope for the best." From heat exposure in the car to rough handling, lack of supervision or unnecessary delays, the traditional repair model can create more problems than it solves.
 

"If it's broken, don't risk breaking it more," he said.
 

"Call a technician that can come to you. This way the computer can be fixed with you and you stay in control every step of the way."
 

About V4 IT

V4 IT, headquartered in Melbourne, is a leading provider of home and business IT support services in Australia. Since its inception in May 2022, V4 IT has rapidly expanded its footprint, now covering over 1,500 postcodes across the country. The company's mission is to become Australia's most trusted home IT service provider by delivering reliable and efficient online and onsite support to a growing customer base.
 

V4 IT specialises in:

• Home and business IT support: Comprehensive solutions tailored to meet individual and small business needs.
• Online and onsite support services: Flexible service delivery, ensuring convenience and efficiency.
• Nationwide coverage: Over 100 expert technicians providing assistance across more than 1,500 postcodes.

www.v4it.com.au