When "computer says no"

A Trojan horse, a persistent beeping sound, or - worst of all - crash, boom, bang ... hard disk failure. These things usually happen at the worst possible moment, and you’ll want a quick solution, fast. These computer repair shops promise to help you out.

  
ARC

Located just outside of Brussels in the small town of Dilbeek (Flemish Brabant), this Apple computer repair shop has a reputation for reliable service. Computers can be fixed at your place or at the repair centre in Dilbeek. You can call them or send a support request via the website, describe the problem your computer is facing, and tick the ‘rush box’, if it’s an emergency. If you’re not covered by a warranty, expect a bill of €150 for the first hour of intervention (at your place). Every extra hour will be billed at €70. The rush fee is €80.

8 H. Dom Saviolaan, Dilbeek, tel 02.466.50.00, open Monday to Friday, 9.00 to 12.30 and 13.15 to 17.00, www.arcict.be

Bimos

Bimos focuses on IT problems in Brussels. If you’re having problems with your PC, your website, or even your Blackberry, Bimos’ technicians will solve the issues ‘with passion and patience’. You can either drop off your damaged computer or smart phone at their shops in Anderlecht or Sint-Pieters-Leeuw, or ring 0489.22.05.11 for an on-the-spot intervention. Even if the technician can’t solve the problem right away, you’ll be provided with a replacement computer as long as you need it.

37 Rue Gheude (Anderlecht) or 63a J. Mehaudensstraat (Sint-Pieters-Leeuw, ring 0498.22.05.11 first!), open from Monday to Friday, 9.00 to 17.00, www.bimos.be

Brussels IT

Based in Overijse, the technicians of Brussels IT come and fix any PC in and around Brussels. Among other services on offer, they can help you with a slow computer; explain what to do with updates, and make your computer safe for use by children. The technicians charge €60 per hour, and €0.5 per kilometre between the Brussels IT office and your house. If you’d rather go to their office, an hour’s work on your PC will cost €50.

17 Treurwilgenlaan, tel 0475.55.24.07, open Monday to Friday, 9.30 to 17.30, www.brusselsit.com

Cotubex

Not every computer problem is a disaster. Sometimes all you need is a new mouse or keyboard, more memory or a better back-up plan. Cotubex (above), near the Ixelles cemetery, usually has everything in stock. You can pop into the large store, or buy online at its web shop.

100 Avenue des Saisons, tel 02.643.36.66, open Monday to Saturday, 9.30 to 18.30 (open at 10.30 on Saturday), www.cotubex.be

IT Rescue

The worst computer problems always seem to happen outside office hours. So, what to do when your laptop or PC breaks down on a Saturday night and you need to file an important document on Monday morning? IT Rescue promises a 24/7 service in Brussels and Walloon Brabant.

Ring or text 0488.61.17.97 or send an email to service@itrescue.be to get in touch with a technician.

PC Belgium

The last thing you need when your computer is playing up is to listen to the rather dramatic background music on the PC Belgium website (that is, if you still have access). But if its technicians can help as quickly as advertised online, it will be worth it! The website lists the fees for the most common PC problems: the cleaning of your PC after a bad virus attack will cost around €50, as will retrieving data after a hard disk crash.

You can call 0484.07.81.97 from Monday morning until Sunday night.,www.pcbelgium.be