Doncaster Shoppingtown, or Shoppo as it is called by the locals, may surprise people to know that's not actually its name. It is Westfield and if I check their site it is referred to as Westfield Doncaster Shopping Centre.

I read that about 70% of local shopping occurs at Shoppo but one thing I never really think about getting at Shoppo is computer support.

The problem with getting advice and guidance from a retailer is they only make money if they sell you something. Quite a few of the products sold by the typical computer retailer I wouldn't recommend to clients based on my experience with the products, but retailers have no problems selling a product if you want to buy it. Money after all, is money.

Often whilst I'm cleaning up a computer or fixing a problem a customer will ask for advice and guidance which I'm happy to share. I get paid for my time, and since I'm already fixing a problem and often there are times where I'm waiting for the computer to complete some function, that is a good time for clients to ask about their other problems. The best thing is it can cost no more to get independent advice.

For example recently a client said they had problem with their daughter's computer accessing their wireless network as her bedroom was at the far end of the house, well away from the wireless access point. There were four possible solutions that could be considered. Three cost up to around $200 to implement but one could be done for free. I couldn't see a retailer offering the free solution and most computer support people would recommend they provide a support visit and thus make money. I'm happy to share knowledge when I can as added value to the service I provide.

Some clients retain my services just for my knowledge and skill to quality check the decisions they are making. Anyone selling you a product or service is happy to tell you what it can do, but most won't let you know the limitations unless you specifically ask. Some don't know and some provide incorrect answers. I recently asked multiple retailers what the resolution of the iPad 2 cameras were and received no correct answer. The Apple store staff didn't know, but to their credit didn't provide incorrect information. For some the camera resolution is a reason not to buy the Apple iPad 2.

If you have any of the following problems give me a call and whilst I'm there, feel free to ask those other questions you'd like answered.

•  Does your computer appear to be sluggish?

Online Connections has been helping people and businesses with their computers for over 20 years.

Consultations can be as short as six minutes so simple computer problems won't hurt the budget, but for more serious computer issues we only bill for the time required. We're local (based in Templestowe) so there is no call out fee or travel charge for people in Doncaster, Doncaster East, Templestowe, Bulleen, Eltham, Montmorency or Lower Plenty . You only pay for the time it takes to fix your problem.

We know you'll be happy with our service but if you're not happy, we back our work with a money back guarantee.

If you have a computer problem contact us now. We come to you.

Mobile: 0415 910 703