Today, it seems as though almost every home has a computer, providing information, fun, communication, and much more. Unfortunately, like all equipment, these can go wrong, which can be doubly frustrating for those of us who are otherwise lucky enough to live in the Andalucian mountains.
Fortunately, help is at hand, in the shape of John Bowyer, known in the village of Competa as 'Computer John.' John has had around 15 years experience of computers, and formed his own company when he came to live here nearly 5 years ago, making it one of the longest-running English-based computer companies in the area.
John was one of the first to experiment with wireless network in the campo. The first communication was made using a couple of Pringle cans! Then John had a professional survey made of the area to check the viability of the project. The survey proved to be positive, and he planned to start a system up. However, the financial support was not forthcoming. For the last two and a half years, John has been working closely with Kim Jorgensen of Campo Internet and there is now a good reliable network in place.
All aspects of computers are covered. John builds and administers websites, anything from small single page information sites, sites for small businesses, artists work sites to large data-based driven property sales sites. He also supplies email addresses, a very popular one being '@homeincompeta.com, but can provide almost any email address wanted. He builds new computers to spec, anything from top of the range, all singing and dancing games machine to a good standard workhorse. New machines start from 420 euros. Refurbished machines can be supplied, usually Dell or Compaq at around 250 euros. This includes delivery, installation, and software. All come with guarantees. John can also give tuition in software use if you feel like building your own site with for example, Dreamweaver, or you may want to professionally improve your photographs by using Photoshop etc. You may be a real novice, in which case John can teach the very basics of the computer. If your machine needs to be left at the workshop, John supplies courtesy computers free of charge for use whilst your machine is being mended.
A lot of John's time is spent clearing viruses and Malware/Spyware, and if you get any popups appearing on your computer screen, don't hesitate to contact him, as he is always glad to give advice, either by phone or email, on any hardware and software problems related to the computer. Help can also be given with setting up Skype or VOIP.
All this obviously keeps John extremely busy, but music having always played a large part in his life, he also finds time to play in '101,' a popular local rock band. He worked in the music business whilst living in England, touring different countries with many famous bands, which is how he came to be involved with computers.
John is in the process of streamlining his business, keeping a record of customer's problems on a database. His website has now been updated to provide support, help and information to customers, and the community, on all aspects of computer problems, so watch this space, at http://www.competa-computers.com.
Some of the local businesses who have used John's services are: Hidden Spain, Clara Country Homes, Inland Properties, Brogan Properties, Solutions 4 You, Santa Clara Language School, Bodega Bentomiz, Taurus Real Estate, Competa Holidays, Country Properties, CMR, Casa Deon, Three Bees Bed and Breakfast etc.
