GNU Solutions Computer Repairs

12/04/2026

Here's a nice bit of feedback from a happy customer. Taking her 2017 HP Laptop that was going downhill rapidly, we were able to "clone" her user experience to a new Laptop so it was functionally and visually identical to the old, with a major point of difference.

We provided her with far greater security, a lower online footprint, longer battery life and a machine that is faster per use than its out of box state. This is the difference we provide all of our customers. See her feedback in the image below. When you want quality service, only GNU will do!

11/04/2026

Microsoft has started actively scaling back excessive AI elements from its Windows systems due to significant and extended user backlash. The voice of users worldwide has been heard where the common complaints cited poor system performance, excessive bloat and privacy concerns.

Windows users can look forward to a reduction in AI elements littering their machines starting with reducing unnecessary copilot entry points, changing some into a more user-friendly opt-in model. Microsoft AI elements will still be available for all who want them, and the changes will be delivered through the regular Windows Update channel.

GNU Solutions is all about making your computers work for you whether that be from direct connection with us, or through our Facebook Business page as short informative articles like this one.

If you'd like help with your Computer related issues, call us or drop us a line, we'd love to hear from you. With GNU, IT runs like new!

28/03/2026

VLC has been the king of media players, but its showing its age. Check the comments ...

22/03/2026

Suffering from a slow Computer? Want the best advice for a replacement or a repair? Mike has over 25 years of experience in this field. Call Mike on 027 272 7828 and find out just how remarkable the GNU service is for yourself. Located in Paeroa we serve both the local community and customers from far afield.

31/01/2026

If you have an old or slow Computer, this post may be of interest to you. Before we continue, the contents in this post is for all machine types, not just Apple.

Apple MacBooks are an amazing piece of hardware, they can last ages, often well past their End of Life software support, however users report not being able to connect to online web based services becasue the browser is too old and can not be upgraded. Windows based Machines are not immune to this either, as the recent Windows 10 EoL issue from October 2025

We had the opportunity this week to showcase a way to extend the usable life of an old MacBook that is affected by this very thing by using a MX Linux Live USB

GNU Solutions founder Mike Pavletich has for the last 11 years been part of a global team that provides MX Linux, a fully featured Computer Operating System designed to be run from a USB drive. The Live system is completely usable with Office Compatible support, multimedia, email, printing support and of course, a web browser. When running Live, the Desktop contains an installer icon for users who wish to install MX in a dual boot setup or to fully convert their machine. Running from a Live USB, MX Linux is fast, redicuously fast, and when a machine is rebooted or shut down and the drive unplugged, it returns to its former unmodified state.

MX Linux is very light on system resources, so light that it's installed and used as daily driver on 20 year old machines!, and yes, you read that right. All this may give the impression MX is only for old machines, but it also runs well on brand new machines too.

Users who want to give life back to an older machine or an uninspiring cheap and cheerful Laptop that takes an hour to get anything done are amazed at just how fast and efficiently their machine runs. We often hear that it runs better than the day it was new.

MX Linux is secure and it values privacy. MX will never phone home or fill your machine with unwanted AI, Desktop Widgets, or present annoying and intrusive ads.

If you or someone you know has a troublesome machine, MX Linux which is available in 4 officially supported variations might be just the thing to put it right. Mike has over 20 years worth of experience with Linux and will be only too happy to assist with a full featured MX Linux Live USB or conversion.

If MX is not for you, then we can do for you as one of our customers has stated "Mike can make a silk purse out of a sows ear". We can make your Windows system like, or better than new, with the proviso that MS will never stop dumping more junk, advertising and AI into their systems. We provide the tools to help you to keep your machine in line after a repair, but it's up to you to use them.

Photo is of an unsupported Macbook Air running from a MX 25.1 KDE Live USB connected to the left port near the hinge.

GNU Solutions is run from a home based Workshop in Rotokohu Road, Paeroa. Call us on 027 272 7828 from 9-5 Weekdays, or Sat AM by appt.

15/01/2026

How to reclaim the internet with these 3 Browser extensions. Check the first comment for details, ...

07/12/2025

The wait is over, or at least it will be when your computer gets a tune up and service from GNU Solutions. Our curated list of 32+30 tweaks, enhancements and improvements will make such an impact on your computer, you could be forgiven for thinking you just purchased a new machine.

02/12/2025

It has been a long time coming, but it's finally here, we now have a fully operational website. Check it out → https://gnusol.net.nz/

Paeroa based operations serving the wider Hauraki and Coromandel region, and beyond. Call Mike on 027 272 7828

Reliable computer repairs and IT support in Paeroa. Local, trusted and friendly Kiwi service that gets your computer running like new.

15/11/2025

Your key to success lies in your preparedness, never be without your Key. Check the comments for more details and how to find us

11/10/2025

Windows 10 users - If we could extend your support till 2032, would you go for it?

Check the comments