Calm at the heart of the chaos.
A new computer to set up, a problem that keeps coming back, Wi-Fi that keeps dropping? I find the right solution and take care of everything, with simple explanations.
What I can do for you
From advice to installation and troubleshooting, for the whole family's devices.
Advice and needs assessment
Before you buy or change anything, we make sure it's the right solution for you.
- Needs assessmentWe look together at how you use your devices and what you're missing.
- Finding the right solutionI compare the options and recommend what fits your needs and budget, with nothing you don't need.
Ready-to-use computer
A computer that's ready to go, set up properly from day one.
- Computer setupAccounts, updates, security, removing unwanted software and transferring your files.
- Software installationInstalling and setting up what you need. I suggest free, open source options first, but the final choice is always yours.
- Full reset and setupBacking up your data, a clean Windows reinstall, drivers, software and restoring your files.
Troubleshooting
I find the cause of the problem, not just the symptom.
- Software issuesSlowness, crashes, error messages, stuck updates, programs that stopped working.
- Hardware issuesComputer won't start, screen, keyboard, overheating, noise, faulty part. I'll tell you whether it's better to repair or replace.
Installation and home network
Everything that plugs in, connects and needs to work together.
- PeripheralsPrinters, monitors, external drives, webcams, docking stations and other accessories.
- Internet, Wi-Fi and modemModem and router installation and setup, secure and well-placed Wi-Fi.
- Basic home networkConnecting your devices, printer sharing, better Wi-Fi coverage throughout the house.
More services are coming soon. Don't see what you need? Send a request anyway.
Clear prices, no surprises
Packages for the most common needs. For everything else, a simple hourly rate. The price is always confirmed before I start.
Reset and basic setup
A slow or unstable computer, like new again
- Backup of your files (up to 100 GB)
- Clean Windows reinstall
- Drivers and updates
- Antivirus, browser and essential software
- Your files restored
New computer, ready to use
A new computer ready to go
- Account setup and updates
- Unwanted software removed
- Security and automatic backup
- Essential software installed
- Transfer from old computer: +$40
Tune-up
A computer slowing down, without erasing anything
- Cleanup of unneeded files and programs
- Faster startup
- Complete updates
- Drive and battery health check
- Virus scan
Internet and Wi-Fi
Home network installation or tune-up
- Modem and router installation
- Secure, well-placed Wi-Fi
- Connecting your devices (up to 6)
- Speed and coverage test
- Mesh system: +$30
Peripheral installation
Printer, monitor, external drive, etc.
- Installation and setup
- Wireless connection if applicable
- Set up on 2 devices
- Full test
- Additional device: +$15
Needs assessment
Before a purchase or a change
- A chat about how you use your devices
- Research and comparison of options
- Written recommendation based on your budget
- 100% credited if I set up the device you choose
Swipe to see the other packages →
Hourly rate
Good to know
Legal software only, open source first. I favour free, open source software (LibreOffice, Firefox, VLC, etc.): reliable, no subscription, and installation is included in the packages. Prefer paid software like Microsoft Office? Your call: the licence is then bought by you or with you, at the official price. Either way, I never install pirated software or unofficial licences. Besides being illegal, they're a common source of viruses.
Outside the area, travel fees may apply. If a problem turns out to be more complex than expected, I'll talk to you before going further.
Simple, in three steps
Describe your problem
The assistant asks a few questions to understand your situation. It takes 2 minutes.
I get back to you
Within 24 to 48 hours, I contact you to confirm the need, the price and a time that works for you.
We fix it
In-home or remote, depending on the problem and your preference. I explain what I did.
Hi, I'm Sam.
I'm a computer technician by trade, but I've been tinkering with computers since I was 8. Every day, I look after the computers, software, printers and network of hundreds of users in the education sector.
Before IT, I was a welder. In that trade, a weld is either good or it isn't: you do it right the first time. I've kept that way of working. I fix the problem at its source, once and for all. No quick patches, no repeat visits that inflate the bill.
I've often seen people leave the store with a device that didn't really suit them. Not out of bad intent: in a store, there's rarely time to listen to you, and recommendations sometimes follow promotions and commissions more than your real needs.
With Maelström, it's the opposite. I earn no commission and have nothing to sell you. I take the time to understand how you use your devices, then recommend what suits you, at a fair price. Sometimes the best solution is even to keep your computer and give it a second life.
My approach is simple: listen to you, find the right solution and explain it clearly.
What my clients say
Frequently asked questions
Where do you travel?
I travel throughout the Vaudreuil, Soulanges, Beauharnois and Valleyfield areas. Remote support is available everywhere.
How does remote support work?
On Windows, we use Quick Assist, already built into Windows: press Windows + Ctrl + Q, then enter the code I give you over the phone. On a Mac, I send you a link to a small, secure app. Either way, you see everything I do and the connection ends when we're done.
Do you offer a guarantee?
Yes. If the same problem comes back within 30 days of my visit, I come back and fix it for free. The guarantee covers the work done; it doesn't cover a hardware failure or a new, unrelated problem.
How much does it cost?
See the Pricing section for packages and the hourly rate. The price is always confirmed with you before I start.
Do you have access to my files?
Only what's needed to fix the problem, and always with your permission. Your data stays confidential. Details in the privacy policy.
When are you available?
Mainly evenings and weekends. Every request is handled within 24 to 48 hours, with priority if you're stuck.
Do you serve businesses?
No. Maelström focuses on individuals and families.
Contact Maelström
For a support request, the assistant is fastest. For anything else, write to me.
Person in charge of the protection of personal information: Sam, owner, info@maelstrom-informatique.ca. Privacy policy
Got a problem to fix?
Answer a few questions and I'll get everything I need to help you quickly.