LOUISVILLE RECEIVES NEW SOLUTION FOR TECHNOLOGY TROUBLES

LOUISVILLE, KY -- MAY 10, 2006 -- Louisville computer users have a new option for fast, reliable and reasonably priced computer support. Computer Troubleshooters, a worldwide technology franchise specializing in small business and residential computer service and repair, is now operating in Jefferson County.

Launched this week, Computer Troubleshooters provides a full range of computer, networking and technology services. From spyware protection and antivirus removal to PC repair and upgrades, the new company is specifically geared to address small business, home office and residential computer users’ needs.

“I manage a small business myself, so I’m sensitive to the challenges small offices face,” said Erik Eckel, owner and operator of Louisville’s first Computer Troubleshooters location. “Small businesses and home office users battle many of the same technology issues larger organizations do, but typically without dedicated IT staffs. When they have trouble they can’t just pick up the phone and call the in-house IT department. That’s where Computer Troubleshooters can help. We want to be your technology partner, whether you have one PC or a full-blown client-server network.”

Eckel formerly served as Executive Editor for CNET Networks’ TechRepublic Web site, where for seven years he drafted, edited and published how-to material for information technology professionals. He’s also co-authored several books. In addition to CompTIA’s Network+ accreditation, he’s earned Microsoft Certified Professional, Microsoft Certified Professional + Internet and Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer certifications from Microsoft.

What prompted Eckel to leave a secure desk job to battle technology fires in the field? The opportunity to extend his skills and expertise in the community and assist other businesses and computer users with their technology troubles proved too strong a draw for him.

“TechRepublic, founded by Cobb Group alumnae, was an entrepreneurial and rewarding environment,” said Eckel. “But I couldn’t pass up teaming with Computer Troubleshooters to open Louisville’s first office. It’s a natural fit, and with several major new technologies approaching, the time is right.”

Microsoft Corp. is preparing entirely new versions of its Windows client and server operating systems. The software manufacturer is also readying a new office productivity suite.

“It’s a dizzying array for almost anyone to try and understand,” said Eckel. “Accountants want to concentrate on accounting, builders on building and doctors on doctoring. Others have no time to become current on new computer technologies or software capabilities or learn whether they even need them. Computer Troubleshooters provides that support with a strong local presence backed by global strength.”

With a quick phone call, Computer Troubleshooters will show up at your business or home and quickly tend to your IT needs. Regardless of your technology trouble, Computer Troubleshooters provides professional service.

“Whether you’ve lost client information or a year’s worth of photos, computer problems can be traumatic,” added Eckel. “My office understands the urgency and importance of solving technology issues professionally. There are no gimmicks here, just tried-and-true methods.”

In any office technology can positively impact the overall business. From new software to faster hardware, making things more reliable or adding whole new features – like voice-over-IP phone systems or telecommuting capabilities – makes a big difference.

“We know from experience and research that customers are often frustrated with their computers and other technology,” said Computer Troubleshooters National Director Chip Reaves. “Erik has a lengthy technology background and excels at pinpointing issues and resolving them quickly.

“Many small business owners tell us that finding the best way to take advantage of their computer systems is one big puzzle to them, and that’s where we come in” added Reaves. “That’s why our motto ‘Technology solved’ is so relevant.”

For more information, call the Louisville Computer Troubleshooters office at 502.767.3855 or visit www.ct-lou.com.

About Computer Troubleshooters. Computer Troubleshooters provides a full range of computer and technology solutions to small-business owners and private home users. Computer Troubleshooters specialists are fully trained and are experts at diagnosing a broad range of computer and technology challenges.

Launched in 1999, Computer Troubleshooters now has more than 450 franchises worldwide, including more than 240 in the United States and Canada and the remainder spanning 21 countries, including Egypt, Greece, Romania, South Africa, South Korea, Kuwait and Spain and Australia, where the company was founded by Wilson and Suzanne McOrist.

Computer Troubleshooters USA was named the top tech support business franchise company in 2005 by Entrepreneur magazine in its annual Franchise 500 rankings.

In October 2005, Franchise Times magazine named Computer Troubleshooters one of its top “Up and Comers,” ranking it #255.