Remote vs. On-Site IT Support: Which Do You Need?
Most computer problems don't need a technician standing in your living room or office. Some do. Here's how to tell, and what each option actually costs.
At Bay Geeks, we offer both, and we'll tell you honestly which one solves your problem faster and cheaper.
Remote Support
Best for: software issues, viruses and malware, slow performance, email setup, printer configuration, general troubleshooting.
We connect securely to your computer over the internet (you watch every step on your own screen) and fix the issue live, often the same day you call.
Billed in 15-minute increments at the same $125/hr (residential) or $175/hr (commercial) rate as on-site, you just pay only for the time we actually use.
On-Site Support
Best for: hardware failures, network and Wi-Fi setup, security camera installation, new equipment setup, wiring, essentially anything remote access can't reach.
A Bay Geeks technician comes to your home or office and handles the issue in person, with a 1-hour minimum.
Prefer to skip the wait? Pickup & return is available for hardware issues, starting at a $200 flat rate for residential clients ($300 for commercial).
Quick Comparison
| Remote Support | On-Site Support | |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Often same-day, within the hour | Scheduled visit required |
| Best for | Software, viruses, slow PCs, setup | Hardware, networking, installs |
| Residential rate | $125/hr · 15-min increments | $125/hr · 1-hr minimum |
| Commercial rate | $175/hr · 15-min increments | $175/hr · 1-hr minimum |
Still Not Sure?
Call or open a ticket, describe the problem, and we'll tell you honestly which option fixes it faster, even if that means the cheaper one.
Let's Figure Out the Fastest Fix
One call, answered immediately: no phone tree, no hold music.
Need help right now? Call 727-579-4335 for emergency service instead of scheduling.
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