Basing Tech

Expert computer repair in Basingstoke: Screens, SSD upgrades, WiFi issues, and data recovery. We come to you with a Privacy-First guarantee.

Professional, jargon-free support with a No-Fix-No-Fee policy.

17/10/2026

𝐖𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐨𝐰𝐬 𝟏𝟎 - 𝘪𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘗𝘊 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘴𝘢𝘧𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘶𝘴𝘦?

Windows 10 officially lost support last October, and if you've heard conflicting things since, you're not alone.

The short version: Microsoft has given home users an extra year of security updates, now running until October 2027. That's good news, but it's not the same as "all fine, carry on."

👨‍💻 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐁𝐢𝐭 (𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐱𝐭𝐫𝐚 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬):

The scheme is called Extended Security Updates (ESU). It only covers critical security fixes. No new features, no general support, and it isn't automatic: your PC has to be fully up to date and enrolled first.
It's also only a one-year bridge. Once it ends, a Windows 10 PC keeps working, but any newly found security holes stay open for good. Over time, browsers, antivirus and other software also stop supporting old systems.

💡 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:

Use the extra time to make a plan instead of a rushed decision. Most PCs fall into one of three groups:

▪️ Compatible with Windows 11: a free upgrade is usually possible, and it's far less painful when done calmly with a backup in place.
▪️ Almost compatible: sometimes a setting, a BIOS update or an SSD upgrade is all it takes.
▪️ Too old to upgrade: you can stay on ESU for now, but it's worth planning a sensible replacement rather than buying in a panic.

What I can do for you:

▪️ Check whether your PC can run Windows 11 (many people are surprised either way)
▪️ Back up your files first, so nothing is at risk
▪️ Handle the upgrade and check that everything still works afterwards
▪️ Make sure your PC is enrolled for the extra year of updates if you're staying put
▪️ Move your files and settings across if a new PC is the better option
▪️ Give older machines a boost with an SSD or extra RAM, so they run well rather than just run

No jargon, no pressure to buy something you don't need. Just an honest answer on what makes sense for your PC.

📅 𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤:

If you're not sure where your PC stands, let's find out.
Message me here with your PC or laptop make and model (or how old it is).

Or book via the site: https://www.basingtech.co.uk

I'll tell you straight whether to upgrade, stay put, or replace.

05/07/2026

𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐩𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐬 𝐢𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐮𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐨𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐫𝐨𝐰?

It’s the question everyone avoids until it’s too late.
We keep our whole lives on our devices, family photos, tax returns, years of business spreadsheets, and scanned documents.

Most people know they should be "backing up," but it gets pushed to the bottom of the to-do list because it feels complicated, or you’re not sure if you’re doing it right.

The truth is, relying on a single laptop or desktop to hold everything is a ticking time bomb. Hard drives fail, updates go wrong, and accidents happen.

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐁𝐢𝐭 (𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝟑-𝟐-𝟏 𝐑𝐮𝐥𝐞):

In the tech world, we have a golden rule for keeping data safe. You should have:

3️⃣ copies of your data (the original, plus two backups).

2️⃣ different types of storage (e.g., your computer's drive and an external USB drive).

1️⃣ copy kept somewhere else entirely (like secure cloud storage).

If your backup drive is plugged into the same computer all the time, a power surge or a nasty malware infection can wipe out both at the exact same time.

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:

A "Set & Forget" Backup System.

You shouldn't have to remember to plug things in or copy files over every week. A proper backup system works quietly in the background while you make a cup of tea.

What I can do for you:

▪️Audit your current setup: Find exactly where your important files are hiding (they are rarely all in one folder!).
▪️Set up automated cloud backup: Configure reliable services like OneDrive, Google Drive, or iCloud so your files sync safely to the cloud the moment you save them.
▪️Configure physical backups: Set up an external drive that takes a snapshot of your whole system automatically.
▪️The "What If" Test: I’ll actually test restoring a file to prove the backup works—because a backup is only good if you can get your files back!

No complicated routines for you to remember, and no jargon. Just total peace of mind that your memories and important files are safe.

𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐚 𝐁𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐮𝐩 𝐒𝐞𝐭𝐮𝐩:

If you’ve been meaning to sort your backups for months, let’s get it crossed off your list.

📧 Drop me a message here letting me know if you use a Mac or a Windows PC.
🧑‍💻 Or book via the site: https://www.basingtech.co.uk

I’ll come to you, get it secured, and show you exactly how to check that it’s working.

16/04/2026

𝐈𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐖𝐢-𝐅𝐢 𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐮𝐩 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐥𝐥?

You’re halfway through a video call, or just settling in for an evening on the sofa, and the wheel starts spinning. Again.

Most people blame “the internet” and call their provider, only to be told everything looks fine from their end. Sound familiar?

The truth is, slow or patchy Wi-Fi is rarely your provider’s fault. It’s almost always something inside your home.

👨‍💻 The Technical Bit (Why Wi-Fi struggles):

Your router sends out a wireless signal in all directions, but walls, floors, microwaves, and even next doors network all chip away at it. The further you are from your router, or the more obstacles in between, the weaker that signal gets.

On top of that, most routers supplied by broadband providers are built to a budget. They’re fine in a small flat, but in a typical semi or detached house, the signal often simply doesn’t reach the far rooms well enough to be reliable.

💡 The Solution:

There’s no one-size-fits-all fix — and that’s exactly why a proper assessment beats guesswork every time.

Common culprits I find and fix:

▪️ Poor router placement: Your router tucked in a cupboard or behind the TV is quietly strangling your signal.
▪️ Outdated equipment: Routers over 4–5 years old struggle with modern devices and speeds.
▪️ Too many devices: Phones, tablets, smart TVs, doorbells — they all compete for bandwidth.
▪️ Wrong frequency band: Most routers broadcast on two bands (2.4GHz and 5GHz). Your devices may be connecting to the wrong one without you realising.
▪️ Neighbour interference: In a busy street, dozens of Wi-Fi networks overlap — a quick channel change can make a surprisingly big difference.

What I can do for you:

▪️ Visit your home and test signal strength room by
room.
▪️ Identify exactly where and why the drop-off is happening
▪️ Reposition or reconfigure your existing router for free quick wins
▪️ Recommend and set up a mesh network or access point if needed — so every corner of your home gets a strong, reliable signal
▪️ Secure your network properly while I’m at it (you’d be surprised how many home networks are wide open)

No jargon, no unnecessary upgrades pushed on you — just an honest assessment and a practical fix.

📅 How to book:

If your Wi-Fi is more “why-fi,” let’s get it sorted.

1️⃣ Drop me a message here describing where in the house you lose signal

2️⃣ Or book via the site: https://www.basingtech.co.uk

I’ll come to you, find the problem, and give you a straight-talking fix — no call centre, no waiting around.

11/02/2026

𝐈𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐨𝐩 𝐬𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐚 𝐣𝐞𝐭 𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐞?

Ever noticed your laptop getting roasting hot on your lap, or the fans spinning so loud you can’t hear the TV?

Most people ignore it, but it’s actually your laptop gasping for air.

👨‍💻 The Technical Bit (The "Fluff" Factor):

Inside every laptop is a tiny fan and a cooling heatsink. Because the air intakes are usually on the bottom, they act like a little vacuum cleaner. Over a year or two, they suck up dust, pet hair, and carpet fluff.

This creates a "dust blanket" inside. When the heat can't get out, the computer purposely slows itself down so it doesn't melt. This is called "Thermal Throttling,” it’s why a hot laptop feels like a slow laptop.

💡 The Solution:

A professional "Internal Clean & Service."

I don't just blow some air at it; I take it apart, safely clear out the "dust bunnies," and, most importantly, replace the Thermal Paste. That’s the special gel that moves heat away from your processor. Over time, the factory stuff turns into dry crust and stops working.

What you’ll notice:
▪️ Whisper Quiet: The fans won't need to work nearly as hard.
▪️ Cooler to Touch: No more toasted knees!
▪️ Faster Performance: Your processor can actually run at the speeds it was designed for.
▪️ Longer Life: Heat kills electronics. Keeping it cool can add years to your laptop's lifespan.

It’s much cheaper to clean a laptop than it is to replace a burnt-out motherboard!

📅 How to book:

If your laptop is running hot or loud, let’s give it a breather.

1. Message me here with your laptop model.

2. Check the site: https://www.basingtech.co.uk

I'll get it opened up, cleaned out, and running cool again.

30/01/2026

𝐌𝐚𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐞 - 𝘐𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘗𝘊 𝘣𝘦𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨… 𝘰𝘧𝘧?

Most people imagine “malware” as some dramatic Hollywood scene. In reality it’s usually much quieter than that and it often looks like a computer that’s just gone a bit strange.

𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐨𝐧 𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐬:

▪️Your browser keeps changing (new homepage, new search engine, odd toolbars)
▪️Pop-ups appear even when you’re not on “dodgy” websites
▪️The computer feels unusually slow or noisy (fans running constantly)
▪️You’re being redirected to pages you didn’t choose
▪️Security warnings start appearing out of nowhere
▪️Accounts get “locked”, or you start getting password reset emails you didn’t request

𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐢𝐬 (𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐄𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡)

Malware is unwanted software that gets onto your computer without you meaning it to. Sometimes it’s trying to show ads, sometimes it’s collecting information, and sometimes it’s trying to trick you into paying money or handing over passwords.

𝐈𝐭 𝐨𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐧 𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡:

▪️A fake “Download” button
▪️A convincing email attachment or link
▪️“Free” software bundles that install extra rubbish
▪️Old, out-of-date systems that haven’t had updates

⚠️𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐝𝐨 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 (𝐬𝐚𝐟𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐩𝐬)⚠️

If you suspect something isn’t right:

❗️Don’t click anything that looks suspicious (especially pop-ups telling you to call a number or pay to “fix” it).
❗️Disconnect from the internet (turn off Wi-Fi / unplug the cable) if it’s acting aggressively.
❗️If you’ve entered a password recently, change it from your phone (not from the affected PC).

If your PC has been infected (or you’re not sure), we can:

▪️Run a proper clean-up and health check
▪️Remove unwanted software and browser hijacks
▪️Check for anything that’s stealing logins or causing pop-ups
▪️Secure the basics (updates, browser settings, safer setup)
▪️If needed, backup your data and reinstall Windows cleanly for a fresh start

No drama, no judgement, and no confusing jargon, just a clear explanation of what I’ve found and what it will take to fix it.

📅𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤:

If something feels off, send me a message with:

1️⃣What you’re seeing (pop-ups / redirects / slow / warnings)
2️⃣Whether it’s a laptop or desktop

Or book via the site: https://www.basingtech.co.uk

I’ll give you a straight answer and a sensible plan to get things back to normal.

26/01/2026

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐂 𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐭 - 𝘐𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘬𝘵𝘰𝘱 𝘗𝘊 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘪𝘵𝘴 𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘵 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦?

We’ve all been there, you turn your PC on, go to the kitchen to make a brew, and by the time you’re back, it’s still grinding away at the login screen.

A lot of people think a slow computer means it’s "end of life" and time for a trip to the tip. But more often than not, the bottleneck isn't the whole computer, it’s just one specific part: the Hard Drive.

👨‍💻The Technical Bit (The "Spinning Disk"):

Inside many older desktop PCs is a traditional Hard Disk Drive (HDD). It’s essentially a mechanical arm reading data off a spinning magnetic platter—a bit like a record player. As it gets older (and as modern software gets heavier), that mechanical process just can't keep up. It’s why you hear that "whirring" or "grinding" sound when the PC is working hard.

💡The Solution:

I replace that mechanical drive with an SSD (Solid State Drive). Think of it like swapping a filing cabinet for a super-fast USB stick. There are no moving parts, so it can find your data instantly.

What this means for you:

▪️Instant Start-up: Your PC will go from "Off" to "Desktop" in about 15–20 seconds.
▪️Snappy Apps: Clicking on Chrome, Word, or Outlook feels instant—no more waiting for icons to bounce or load.
▪️Silent Running: That "grinding" noise disappears completely.
▪️ Total Reliability: Because there are no moving parts, they are much less likely to fail and lose your photos or files.

It’s the most cost-effective way to make an old office PC feel like a brand-new machine.
How to book a "Speed Boost":

If your PC is testing your patience, let’s get it sorted.
1. Drop me a message here with a quick description of the problem.
2. Visit the site: https://www.basingtech.co.uk

I’ll give you a straight-talking quote and get your PC back to its best.

Address

Ben More
Basingstoke
RG249JJ

Website

https://www.basingtech.co.uk/

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