Find top-rated Pros in your area

Enter a zip code and get matched to businesses near you.

The Critical Update Inc

Computer Repair, Internet Service, Computer Sales,

About us

Are you worried about viruses, hackers and downtime? The Critical Update inc provides affordable solutions to managed network security, custom technical support plans and backup solutions. Our approach enables our clients to be more productive, which creates more jobs in the community! - Call 512.336.2970 or visit www.TheCriticalUpdate.com * Technical support * Data recovery * Ongoing network administration and end user support * Affordable, secure backup solutions * basic MAC support

Business highlights

21 years of trusted experience

Services we offer

COMPUTER HELP AND IT CONSULTING; COMPUTER SALES & SERVICE; COMPUTER SERVICES & ONGOING NETWORK ADMINISTRATION; COMPUTER & NETWORK SECURITY; VIRUS PROTECTION & 24/7 MONITORING; BACKUP SOLUTIONS; ONSITE & REMOTE TECHNICAL SUPPORT & STRATEGIC TECHNOLOGY PLANNING.

Services we don't offer

basic MAC support

Amenities



Accepted payment methods

American Express
Check
Discover
MasterCard
PayPal
Visa

Reviews

4.8107 Reviews
Number of StarsImage of DistributionNumber of Ratings
5
86%
4
7%
3
4%
2
0%
1
3%


Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
4.8
value
4.7
professionalism
4.8
responsiveness
4.9
punctuality
4.9
Showing 51-75 of 107 reviews

glenda B.
04/2012
5.0
computer repair
  + -1 more
They were able to retrieve all my document and replaced the hard drive for a price I considered very resonablle. They were easy to contact, and the work was done quickly. I couldn't be happier with the service I received.
Description of Work: The hard drive crashed on my computer. I needed to retrieve important documents, ans have the hard drive replaced.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
4.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$575

Response from The Critical Update Inc
Member, It was a joy working with you. Please let us know if we can be or service. Regards LUIS

Florence H.
03/2012
5.0
computer repair
  + -1 more
I needed to learn how to upload my newly edited website to the internet. This was not one of the services listed on their list of services. But Luis got back with me the same day I emailed him with my dilemma, and said he would put one of his guys on it. I could not believe it--I had tried several times to find someone on Craigs List, and no one on Craigs List would even get back to me. I knew this was an unusual request, not your standard need for virus help. Luis was positive, and "can-do". He hooked me up with one of his guys, Zachariah. Zach researched my issue (the web designer program I had used and the ftp program I had), and told me he could show me how to do it.. Zach was fabulous. He walked be through a process that had me stumped for years (I was born 20 years too late for computer stuff!). He was kind, he was patient, and he was totally computer/web saavy. Thank you Louis, thank you Zach, thank you Critical Update!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I can now easily upload edits to my website!!!
Description of Work: They taught me how to upload edits to my website!

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$120

Response from The Critical Update Inc
We appreciate working with amazing clients like you. Thank you for your kind words and the opportunity to be of service. We appreciate your referrals. LUIS

Patricia D.
03/2012
3.0
computer repair
  + -1 more
They said it was $59 for an hour of work. They misrepresented themselves. When they came out, they said it would be another $25 for travel time. I went on the website to look at what I saw and what they offered. There was no $25 fee on there. The technician who was here, was constantly on the phone with his son. He kept texting back and forth because his son kept texting him, while he was working here. I told them their ad didn't say that they would have this charge. They called me right away after I went on their website. He didn't really fix what he was supposed to fix. He was very personable. I was not happy. He was not able to give me an effort to what I needed with my printer and that is why I called him. He told me that he would be a little late, but that was just a half hour.
Description of Work: I hired The Critical Update Inc last month for printer work.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
3.0
value
2.0
professionalism
3.0
responsiveness
4.0
punctuality
4.0

$85

Response from The Critical Update Inc
I am sorry for the confusion. We have tried to be extremely clear on our big deal details and let our members know when a $25 trip would be required. This is always communicated before we go on site. If we did not resolve your issue, I would welcome the opportunity to revisit and find out why. Thanks for your feedback. It is very useful. Luis

Les C.
03/2012
5.0
computer repair
  + -1 more
I was pleased with the promptness of the Critical Update's response (same day service) and was satisfied that everything was completed within 24 hours even though a new part had to be located before the faulty part was replaced. Everything has been fine ever since. My husband, Les, has the Angie's list account but it's my (Miye's) Dell computer that was repaired.
Description of Work: My Dell computer was making a loud noise while in operation. I called the Critical Update to send out a technician to assess the problem. A technician was sent out the day I called. Robert had been to our house on 2 other occasions to do computer problem assessment/repair. He determined that the power supply was the problem. He removed the power supply and said he would return with a new power supply the next day. Rather than order the power supply from Dell (taking more time to order, waiting for receipt of the power supply, and costing more money), he was able to get a power supply that would work in my computer and be much cheaper. I had gotten an Angie's List coupon for the first day and Robert advised getting a second one to pay for the return visit and installation of the new power supply. So the work done was cheaper because of the coupons and the new power supply was cheaper as well. He also confirmed that an external drive that had never worked for me was defective and I was able to use that information to get the company who manufactured the hard drive to send me a replacement under warranty. He also did a little fine tuning of my startup menu to speed up startup.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$200

Response from The Critical Update Inc
We appreciate your kind words and your business. Feel free to share our contact information with friends and family. LUIS

Ben P.
03/2012
5.0
computer repair
  + -1 more
My laptop display had gone completely out. I called The Critical Update and got in touch with Luis on his cell phone. He agreed to meet me at his office in less than an hour. There he examined my laptop and quickly determined that the cost of repair would be nearly as much as buying a new one. He explained the problem and why it would be costly, which I fully understood. It was an old laptop and I was not surprised that it was not worth saving. He also advised toward buying a new laptop. Because the situation was quickly apparent, he decided not to charge me anything. Even though it wasn't an outside service call, it was very generous and friendly. He was honest, knowledgeable, and considerate; I will definately contact him for any future repairs and recommend The Critical Update to my friends.
Description of Work: Examined my laptop computer to determine cause of problem and gave estimate of cost of repair.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro

Response from The Critical Update Inc
Enjoyed meeting you member and we look forward to serving you and your friends. LUIS

Judy C.
03/2012
5.0
computer repair
  + -1 more
Awesome! Robert is a true professional, prompt, courteous, and obviously highly skilled. He can multi task! Worked on Desk Top, Printer, Wii, & Laptop all at the same time. While working, he explained what he was doing and answered all my questions. I highly recommend and will continue to give all my computer business to them. My systems are working so much better!!! ;)
Description of Work: Cleaned up my computer to increase speed. Installed all-in-one printer. Set up Wii. TV to wireless system.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$120

Response from The Critical Update Inc
Thank you so much for your feedback. Robert is a great member of The Critical Update team and we are all very happy to be of service. LUIS

Lara D.
02/2012
5.0
computer repair
  + -1 more
Robert came quickly, responding to my urgen need. He was kind, told me some things I would have to do in the future to to prevent my kis from searching inappropriate things:). Boys!??
Description of Work: Retrieved administrative password

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$60

Response from The Critical Update Inc
We appreciate your report card and look forward to helping you and your referrals. LUIS

LINDA H.
02/2012
5.0
computer repair
  + -1 more
Terrific. Called at 9am to tell us he would be here at 9:30 and he was. Came in the house, looked at my list of problems and got to work.
Description of Work: Checked all my computer connections. Fixed whatever was keeping us from using the iPad. Emptied my computer trash (I was too chicken!) Restored my Google toolbar which had disappeared. Advised getting a new router and made suggestions. Straightened out my photo library. Explained how to print from the iPad. Hooked up my Super Surge Protection and plugged in the devices. He explained what he was doing the whole time and never got "that look" about my ignorance and most important, he got rid of that initial sound when I turn the computer on! Very courteous, on time, knowledgeable. I'm sure my requests were boringly simple to him but he never said so.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$150

Response from The Critical Update Inc
Thank you for your report and kind words. We enjoy serving our Angie's list members and look forward to working with you again. LUIS

Robert/Sarah G.
01/2012
5.0
computer repair
  + -1 more
The call for service was promptly returned and Robert arrived exactly when he said he would. He was pleasant, professional and very knowledgeable. We have used this company several times and every person they've sent has been great! Couldn't ask for better service.
Description of Work: Our printer stopped working. Robert checked it and determined it couldn't be repaired. He gave us several options to consider as we purchased a new one. He then checked the desk computer, running the necessary scans.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$60

Response from The Critical Update Inc
Thank you for being a repeat client. We appreciate and enjoy working with you. LUIS

Karla S.
01/2012
5.0
computer repair
  + -1 more
The Critical Update Computer Services is an excellent company. I called and spoke with Mr. Byars and he was at my home within an hour. He knew that I had been up all night as I am a nurse and I needed to be able to print my school project. He was here promptly, within an hour. He was nice, he was courteous, very knowledgeable and with one or two clicks of the mouse he fixed everything. This is an excellent company, very very helpful, and I would recommend them to anyone.
Description of Work: They performed services for me for my computer. They attached the computer to the desktop. They were not communicating so Robert came in and fixed that for me in 5 minutes. He charged a trip fee only of $49. The support technician was Robert Byars, robert@thecriticalupdate.com.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$49

Response from The Critical Update Inc
We appreciate your kind words and your trust. Thank you for the opportunity to be of service. LUIS

Carole C.
01/2012
5.0
computer repair
  + -1 more
everything went very well. Robert went "above and beyond " to get results from ATT. Very satisfied with the overall service and the results.
Description of Work: various problems with computer

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
4.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
4.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$200

Response from The Critical Update Inc
Thank you for your report. We appreciate your business and look forward to serving you with future computer needs. We are blessed to have Robert as part of our team. Regards, LUIS

Dave W.
12/2011
5.0
computer repair, computer sales
  + 0 more
As stated above, all time lines and budget concerns were met. They provided a schedule of activities and kept to the time and dates that were outlined to us either in person or over the phone. They were timely in follow up situations and called without prompting to see if the home computer system was working properly. There were "no surprises" and the entire experience was exceptional. I was concerned about the file transfer process but Robert handled the whole install/transfer process flawlessly. He explained each step and completed the entire process in about 3 hours. We would use The Critical Update for any future home computer needs or service.
Description of Work: Luis Delgado and Robert Byars evaluated our home computer needs and recommended a system to meet our requirements. They were professional and performed the home system install in a timely and cost efficient manner. We were pleased with their sensitivity to our needs and budget and in turn were able to purchase the hardware/software that matched our specifications for current and projected use. We would recommend this company to anyone seeking advise, assistance and service in procuring a home computer system.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$1,400

Response from The Critical Update Inc
Thank you for your feedback. It was a delightful experience to work with you and we look forward to serving you in the future. LUIS and the TCUINC team

tj B.
10/2011
5.0
computer repair
  + -1 more
Luis and his team just rock it. My in-laws use The Critical Update. I recommend them to business partners. They just get it done for you.
Description of Work: I've been using The Critical Update for 4-5yrs now and they never disappoint. My computers might, but they don't. The video on my son's computer wasn't working at all and it seemed like the card was out. they took it swapped the card and found there was a virus (big surpise with teenager). So all is well again. They also took care of our under performing wireless network and replaced it with a dual band. So now, the higher band works on the newer computers and streaming video for netflixs on the Roku box and also the older computers without the higher frequency wireless cards.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$300

Response from The Critical Update Inc
Thanks Member. Glad to be of service.

Donna H.
09/2011
5.0
computer repair
  + -1 more
Perfect! He came in sat down at the computer, did his magic and left. Perfect.
Description of Work: Restored internet access; restored micro soft.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$100

Response from The Critical Update Inc
Thank you for your report. We appreciate working with you and look forward to helping you again.

Patricia A.
09/2011
5.0
computer repair
  + -1 more
Overall it went very well - quick repairs, easy to talk to and don't make you feel dumb for not being a computer person, very friendly and efficient.
Description of Work: Computer was not responding or loading properly.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$150

Response from The Critical Update Inc
Thank you so much for giving us the opportunity to be of service. We look forward to helping you and your friends.

Donna H.
07/2011
5.0
computer repair
  + -1 more
It was a good experience from beginning to end.
Description of Work: I will only use this company. They are very professional, show up on time, and fix the problem. The repair person came and reinstalled some programs and uninstalled problem ones. He also fixed my printer and my speakers. All in an hour.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$70

Response from The Critical Update Inc
Thanks for the opportunity to serve you!

Allen G.
06/2011
1.0
computer repair
  + -1 more
The recommendation was not correct for this computer. The charge was ridiculously expensive for what was done.
Description of Work: They evaluated a Mac laptop, moved a few files and suggested updating the OS.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
1.0
value
1.0
professionalism
1.0

$104

Michele A.
05/2011
5.0
computer repair
  + -1 more
A technician came to my house very soon after I called on the 17th. Since it wasn't clear what the problem was, he took the computer and monitor to the shop. I was called several times to let me know the status of repairs. When I picked up the computer and met others at the Critical Update site, I felt my computer had been in very good hands with trustworthy people. The price, which included an Angies' List coupon, was also reasonable. So: good price, good service.
Description of Work: My computer would not start. The cause was traced to a defunct power supply, which was replaced.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$212

Response from The Critical Update Inc
we appreciate your business and look forward to serving you in the future.

SUSAN M.
03/2011
5.0
computer repair
  + -1 more
Prompt service and a job well done.
Description of Work: I tried to install the updated AVAST virus protection. I needed help and called AVAST help line. I spoke to someone in India. He remotely looked at my computer and helped with the install but said that I had lots of viruses. He tried to sell me a year of remote service. I did not feel comfortable with someone in India looking at my computer. I called The Critical Update. I have a laptop so I could bring it to the store. I brought it in late morning of March 10th. The technician finished the work by the end of the afternoon. I used my Angie's list coupon. My computer seems to be working well. I liked the various staff members I dealt with and they were eager to get the work done in a timely fashion. The type of work was removing malware, viruses and all that negative stuff that gets stuck like barnacles on the guts (nontechnical name of whatever make the programs work) of the computer.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$92.23

Response from The Critical Update Inc
We really appreciate the opportunity to be of service. On a side note, we are going to offer 50% off coupons thru Angie's List big deal on 4/7.

Robert/Sarah G.
12/2010
5.0
computer repair
  + -1 more
Company answered call promptly. Technician called and set up appointment. He always called when he said he would and showed up on time. He was very professional and completely explained the problems he found with the computers and how best to fix them. We were very happy with this company and our technician and will definitely use them again.
Description of Work: Checked out desk top and replaced hard drive after cloning info so nothing was lost.Also restored printing to laptop.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$300

Response from The Critical Update Inc
We appreciate your feedback and look forward to being of service again. Regards, Luis, President

ROBIN R.
11/2010
5.0
computer repair
  + -1 more
they did a great job- I can use a computer but have no idea what to do when they don't work- they came exactly when I needed someone and spent a lot of time trying to fix the computer and then replaced the part that needed to be replaced- then set it up to work with my modem and printer-thank you again!
Description of Work: the hard drive on my laptop failed and they fixed the laptop

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$230

Response from The Critical Update Inc
We appreciate your feedback and look forward to being of service in the future.

Judith M.
10/2010
5.0
computer repair
  + -1 more
Due to an initial miscommunication it took the technician three visits to get everything set up correctly. But he was persistent and did solve the problem without charging us anything extra. He was also punctual and very polite at all times. All in all, we'd definitely use them again.
Description of Work: Configure a home network for one MAC desktop, one MAC laptop, and two Dell laptops.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
4.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$227

Response from The Critical Update Inc
My apologies for the miscommunication. I am glad we were able to resolve and look forward to being of service again.

Francis W.
10/2010
5.0
computer repair
  + -1 more
It was a great experience! The associate that arrived, Robert, was on time and was very professional and courteous. He examined my computer and assessed that the motherboard needed to be replaced. He suggested that I go ahead and just purchase a new computer because it would be more economical. He also contacted three other people to make sure he covered all the bases with his assessment. As an extra plus he even helped clean up my laptop at no charge! He also let me know that when I purchase another computer he would come over to transfer all the data. With the service I received I will undoubtedly give them a call back!
Description of Work: Assessment of desktop computer

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$40

Response from The Critical Update Inc
we appreciate the opportunity to serve and thank you for your feedback.

Donna H.
09/2010
5.0
computer repair
  + -1 more
Very well. The person who came was very professional Explained to me in terms that I understood.
Description of Work: Another computer repair company had been trying to fix my computer for the past 2 weeks...when they cancelled yesterday I got very frustrating and looked for someone else. I was most fortunate to find The Critical Update. They fixed it within two hours. They had to undo what the other company had done. So now I am up and running...typing this report.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$231

Response from The Critical Update Inc
Thank you for your kind words and the opportunity to be of service. We are glad our tech was able to resolve your computer problems and look forward to helping you in the future. Regards, LUIS

Edward D.
08/2010
5.0
computer repair
  + -1 more
He also checked and cleaned two other computers while here making them as good as new. The company is deserving of all the good rating they have received from others as well.
Description of Work: Brought my Lenovo Laptop back to life after malware and several viruses had deemed the poor thing inoperable. The list of things wrong are too numerous to mention, but the technician found it all, repaired every item, and now my laptop and I are singing his praises. He called to confirm the appointment, arrived on time, was very professional, quickly did his work, and then called the following day to make sure all was well.

Rating CategoryRating out of 5
quality
5.0
value
5.0
professionalism
5.0
responsiveness
5.0
punctuality
5.0

Yes, I recommend this pro
$365

Response from The Critical Update Inc
Thank you for your feedback. We are also thankful for your referrals and look forward to being of service should any future needs arise. Regards, LUIS

Contact information

5114 Balcones Woods Dr Suite 307-429, Austin, TX 78759

http://www.TheCriticalUpdate.com

Service hours

Monday:
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday:
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday:
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday:
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday:
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Licensing

Insured

Eco-friendly Accreditations

LEED Accredited Professional
No
Energy Star Partner
No
EPA Lead-Safe Certified
No
Use Green Products or Work Practices
Yes
State Contractor License Requirements

All statements concerning insurance, licenses, and bonds are informational only, and are self-reported. Since insurance, licenses and bonds can expire and can be cancelled, homeowners should always check such information for themselves. To find more licensing information for your state, visit our State Contractor License Requirements page.

*Contact business to see additional licenses.


Service Categories

Computer Repair,
Internet Service,
Computer Sales,
Office Equipment Repair,
Computer Training,
Heating and Air Conditioning,
Website Design & Development

FAQ

The Critical Update Inc is currently rated 4.8 overall out of 5.

Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Friday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM

The Critical Update Inc accepts the following forms of payment: American Express,Check,Discover,MasterCard,PayPal,Visa
No, The Critical Update Inc does not offer free project estimates.
Yes, The Critical Update Inc offers eco-friendly accreditations.
No, The Critical Update Inc does not offer a senior discount.
No, The Critical Update Inc does not offer emergency services.
No, The Critical Update Inc does not offer warranties.
The Critical Update Inc offers the following services: COMPUTER HELP AND IT CONSULTING; COMPUTER SALES & SERVICE; COMPUTER SERVICES & ONGOING NETWORK ADMINISTRATION; COMPUTER & NETWORK SECURITY; VIRUS PROTECTION & 24/7 MONITORING; BACKUP SOLUTIONS; ONSITE & REMOTE TECHNICAL SUPPORT & STRATEGIC TECHNOLOGY PLANNING.
basic MAC support

Contact information

5114 Balcones Woods Dr Suite 307-429, Austin, TX 78759

http://www.TheCriticalUpdate.com

Service hours

Monday:
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday:
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday:
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday:
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday:
9:30 AM - 5:00 PM