Fixing and trouble-shooting PC's and software is a time consuming task requiring specialized skills. These are now critical roles in modern business since companies have more and more need for 24 by 7 availability of computer systems. In the following sections, we will explore careers in the areas of Help Desk and PC support and explore in depth what it takes to wield the wrenches that hold modern PC systems together.

PC Support and Help Desk Technicians

PC software and hardware are man-made. Therefore, just as death and taxes are a certainty, so is the fact that hardware and software will break down or malfunction. When this happens, it is a source of great frustration to users. Obviously, the users were trying to accomplish some task with their PC systems when the break down occurred. Help Desk and PC support technicians are the knights who ride in on white horses and save the day! Modern help desks can "win customers and endear employees with prompt responses to inquiries and high quality of service".ⁱ

Generally, support means fixing your PC when there is a problem. PC problems can be hardware or software based. It many not even be an actual malfunction. It could be just a lack of knowledge or a misunderstanding on the part of the PC user. However, when users can't do something they want to do with a PC, generally they assume there is a breakdown and call for support. This is where the erstwhile Help Desk and PC Support technicians ride to the rescue. Unfortunately, working at a Help Desk and doing PC support is often a thankless job. Oft times, "employees get little recognition, spend most of their time fighting fires and must meet ever-rising expectations for today's tech-savvy workforce."ⁱⁱ Still, if you enjoy constant challenges and solving other people's problems, working at a help desk or in PC support could be the right spot for you.