Computer repair

home based computer repair business

The computer and digital age are fully integrated into modern society; however, many people still lack the skills to achieve all their technical tasks. If you enjoy computers and are tech-savvy, a computer business is the ideal business for you.

The Pros of Starting a Computer Business

There are many perks to starting a computer-based business from home including:

• Most can be done virtually from anywhere you want to live and work, as long as there is Internet access..
• You set your own schedule and hours
• As the world begins to rely more and more on computers, the demand for tech-savvy people remains high.
• Because of the specialized knowledge and experience, you can earn a good living.
• No formal training is require. While you do need to know technical aspects of the business, your experience doesn't need to come from a formal education. You can be self-taught in many instances.

The Cons to Starting a Computer Business

There are a few downsides to running a computer-based business, such as:

• Requires knowledge and experience. While you don't need a degree, you do need to know the technology.
• The competition for clients is getting stiffer.
• The equipment and software can be expensive.
• Requires good people skills and patience as many people struggle to understand technology.
• Need to stay current on new features, tools, and other tech innovations.

If you have the knowledge, skill and equipment necessary, you can start your computer service business fairly quickly and affordably. Here are five ideas you can start now.

Computer Tutor/Trainer Business Credit: Matt Cardy / Stringer / Getty Images

Just because we live in a computer age doesn't mean everyone is computer-savvy. That's where the computer tutor or trainer comes in. A home based computer tutor teaches individuals and/or businesses how to best use their computer programs and the Internet. In many cases, you'll visit the client in their home or office, unless the client needs help with a laptop or tablet, in which case you can meet anywhere.

Your clients can be diverse, from children to seniors, and everyone in between. You might be hired by businesses that need help learning specific programs or computer-related tasks, such as setting up a database or creating spreadsheets.

You can even work with groups, training an entire office. Or you can run classes either through your home (if allowed by zoning) or through a local adult education resource such as the senior center.

Tutoring does require patience, especially since technology has it's own set of terms that many don't know or understand.

Credit: Joe Raedle / Staff / Getty Images

Computer repair specialists need to have a deep understanding of the mechanics and programming systems of computers in order to identify and fix problems. Individuals and small businesses that don't have a tech team on staff hire computer repair technicians to fix, clean or replace their hardware and software on time, on budget, with a smile.

If you're working from home, you'll likely go to the clients' home or office to work. You'll need to have tools required to diagnose system issues as well as to open a computer to fix or replace a hard-drive or other internal device.

Along with repair, you can offer computer and network set up, including security setup to help keep clients' computer virus and malware-free.

Read more at Pros and Cons of Starting a Computer Repair Business.

Desktop Publishing Business Credit: Ezra Bailey / Getty Images

If your computer skills include creativity, as well as an understanding of page layout and graphics, desktop publishing is a viable home business idea to consider.

While there are many DIY programs for desktop publishing, many businesses need customized creations. Among the many tasks desktop publishers perform are producing books, newsletters, magazines, brochures, Internet content, and graphic design for logos and signage. Many online entrepreneurs need help in creating their products, such as planners, charts and more. You might even work for private individuals creating personalized gifts (i.e. photo calendar), announcements or invitations, and other items.

Turn your digital marketing skills into a home business. Miakievy | Getty Images

If you're a savvy Internet user and understand marketing, especially Internet marketing, there is a growing market for your help. Many businesses of all sizes, but especially small and single-owner businesses, need help with SEO, PPC, website promotion and social networking.

An advantage in providing Internet marketing services over other ideas, such as tutoring, is that you can work with clients all over the world. You're not restricted to servicing clients only in your local neighborhood. With that said, being able to meet clients at their business, can be helpful, especially when starting out.