Different operating systems need different troubleshooting approaches. Windows issues often involve registry problems or driver conflicts, Mac problems might be permission issues or failing SSDs, and Linux troubleshooting usually involves terminal commands and package management.
Windows OS repair: $99-$199
Mac OS reinstallation/repair: $129-$249
Linux system recovery: $149-$299 (more specialized knowledge)
For example, Windows Boot Manager repair might take 1-2 hours ($125), Mac Recovery Mode troubleshooting 1-3 hours ($150-$225), Linux GRUB repair 1-2 hours ($140). What operating system troubleshooting methods and pricing do you use for each platform?
Windows Boot Manager issues often require bootrec /fixboot, bootrec /fixmbr, and bootrec /rebuildbcd commands from recovery environment. Sometimes easier to just reinstall Windows if data is backed up.
Mac Recovery Mode: Internet Recovery (Cmd+Option+R) downloads fresh OS, Disk Utility for drive repair, Terminal for more advanced fixes. Time Machine restoration if backup exists.
Linux: boot from live USB, chroot into installed system, repair GRUB, fix fstab, reinstall bootloader. More command-line intensive but very flexible.
Your pricing is reasonable. We charge: Windows boot repair $129, Mac recovery $149, Linux boot fix $169. Data backup before OS repair adds $79-$149 depending on data volume.
Operating system troubleshooting requires different mindsets: Windows is often click here, click there," Mac is "use these built-in tools," Linux is "here's the command, Google the rest."
Windows specific: dealing with Windows Update breaking things, driver signature enforcement issues, compatibility mode settings for older software. The sfc /scannow" and "dism" commands are lifesavers.
Mac specific: permission repairs, SSD TRIM issues, APFS container errors, iCloud sync conflicts. The "First Aid" in Disk Utility fixes many issues.
Linux specific: package dependency hell, kernel module conflicts, display server issues (X11 vs Wayland), driver availability for newer hardware.
Cross-platform shops need all these skills. We offer OS migration services too: Windows to Mac $299, Mac to Windows $299, either to Linux $349. Includes data transfer, application setup assistance, and basic training.
Operating system troubleshooting is about knowing each platform's quirks and common failure points.