The cost for our IT tech support to remove a “bad file”—typically a virus or malware—ranges from
$50 to $200 for basic removal services. If the file has caused significant system damage, corrupted your operating system, or is part of a ransomware attack, costs can quickly rise above $200 to $500.
Typical Pricing by Service Type Pricing often depends on whether you bring the device to us or have one of our technicians come to you.
- In-Shop Removal ($50 – $150): Standard repair shops like those found on Yelp typically charge a flat fee for virus and malware removal. For instance, PC Quest Technologies offers virus removal for $99.99, while others like PC Computer Guy may charge around $120 for in-shop labor.
- Our On-Site Support can cost ($75 – $250 per hour): If one of our technicians visits your home or office, you will likely be charged an hourly rate. Basic “break-fix” rates often start at $75 per hour for independent contractors but can reach $200 or more for specialized firms.
- Diagnostic Fees ($25 – $75): Many providers, such as Geek Squad, charge an initial diagnostic fee to identify the issue, which is sometimes applied toward the final repair cost.
Factors That Increase the Cost
- System Damage: If the bad file has corrupted the registry or requires a full Windows reinstallation, expect to pay $100 to $200.
- Data Recovery: If the file deleted or encrypted your personal data, “logical” data recovery (using software) typically costs $100 to $300, while complex physical recovery can exceed $1,000.
- Our Urgency: Emergency or after-hours support often carries a premium, sometimes reaching $350 to $400 per hour