Making Headlines

The biggest phone company in the US will now install computers as well as offer computer repair - and even set up home entertainment systems as it tries to find a source of sales to compensate for losing land-line customers.

That company is Dallas-based AT&T.

This option will be open to Fort Lauderdale computer repair seekers - as well as the rest of the nation - beginning immediately.

The computer service, sold less than $100, includes installing one's home computer network, mounting flat-panel TVs and even setting up stereo speakers on walls. Computer repairs are part of the package, as well.

The move pushes AT&T beyond the 22 states where it now offers home-phone, Web and TV service - and into direct competition with Best Buy Co.'s Geek Squad.

The telecommunications giant lost 1.6 million residential customers last year as they switched to mobile handsets or cable providers' call plans.

It appears to be a strong move as computers and entertainment systems are becoming more complex and at a certain point, consumers in South Florida and beyond stop being able to install, use or troubleshoot them.

You don't need to be an AT&T subscriber to sign up for this new Fort Lauderdale computer repair option, but proceed with caution.

As we often say, the best Fort Lauderdale computer repair is often from an independent company that actually specializes in computer repair.

Huge, one-stop shop operations try to woo customers with supposed savings and convenience, but quite often you end up with neither.

Do your research and find the best service for you - one that combines strong customer service, quality, timeliness and price.