In this article · 6 sections
Most small offices call "the computer guy" only when something breaks, then wait hours or days while work stops. A computer AMC (Annual Maintenance Contract) gives you scheduled maintenance and priority support for a fixed yearly fee. It's often cheaper than repeated emergency visits and lost working hours.
What a good computer AMC covers
Preventive maintenance
- Scheduled visits (monthly or quarterly)
- OS and software updates
- Antivirus checks and updates. See antivirus for small business
- Disk health checks and cleanup
- Physical cleaning (dust causes overheating)
Support
- Remote support for quick issues
- On-site visits within an agreed time
- Troubleshooting PCs, laptops, printers, scanners, Wi-Fi and network
- New user setup and email configuration
Backups and security
- Checking that backups actually run. See the 3-2-1 backup rule
- Router and Wi-Fi security settings
- Removing access when staff leave
Inventory and reporting
- A register of devices, licences and warranties
- A visit report after each service
Comprehensive vs non-comprehensive AMC
| Non-comprehensive | Comprehensive | |
|---|---|---|
| Labour and support | Included | Included |
| Spare parts | Charged separately | Many parts included (check list) |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
Read exactly which parts are covered and which aren't (e.g. laptop screens, printer heads and batteries are often excluded).
Questions to ask
- What's the on-site response time? Remote response time?
- How many visits are included?
- Which devices are covered (PCs, laptops, printers, CCTV, network)?
- Are software licences included or extra?
- Who handles warranty claims with manufacturers?
- Do you keep our passwords? How are they stored?
Red flags
- Installing pirated software
- Shared admin passwords for all PCs
- No written report of work done
- Vague contracts without response times
Website vs office IT
A computer AMC covers office hardware and network. Your website needs separate care: hosting, updates, backups, security and SEO. See website AMC.
FAQs
Is a computer AMC worth it for 3–5 PCs?
Often yes, if downtime is costly or nobody in-house handles IT. Compare with your past repair bills and lost hours.
Can support be fully remote?
Many software issues can be fixed remotely; hardware and network problems usually need a visit.
Joboo Web looks after the online side (websites, hosting, email and domains) with clear maintenance plans. Ask us.