The Hudson River Rambler

Imagine this: you’re surfing the Internet when a window pops up alerting you to download anti-virus software. You click the “OK” button without thinking, and soon realize that you probably downloaded some kind of spyware or malware program to your computer. Now what do you do? Robert Pumphrey, owner of Hudson Valley Computer Geek, will work to find the problem with your computer and fix it.

Robert does more than just troubleshoot computer viruses at Hudson Valley Computer Geek. He’ll upgrade your computer, recover lost data, and fix broken LCD screens. Whether you have a desktop or a laptop, whether it’s a PC or a Mac, Robert is happy to take a look it. He also works on video game systems like the Sony Playstation and the Microsoft X-Box.

Business clients often have different needs than home users, and Hudson Valley Computer Geek is equipped to design and implement networks, configure VPN (virtual private network) solutions, and more. “We do it all,” he said. “And if I personally can’t fix it, I will call an associate who can.”

Robert’s “eventual business partner” Rachel earned a Master’s degree in computer science from Carnegie Mellon University. “Rachel has qualifications out the wazoo,” Robert said, “The breadth of her experience is a real asset to the company.”

Robert’s interest in computers goes back to his childhood. “My brothers and sisters would buy comic books. Meanwhile, I’d buy the Computer Shopper and learn why one computer was more expensive than another.” Robert was a network administrator prior to opening his own business. He will soon be A++ certified for computer repair.

Last year Robert decided to open up his PC repair shop in Red Hook because he realized there was nothing local. “The closest repair shop was across the Mid-Hudson Bridge, in Kingston. I wanted to help the local community and thought that I could give people in Northern Dutchess County an option.”

Computer repairs can be expensive, and people often think it’s more cost-effective to purchase a new computer, rather than attempt a repair. But often, that’s not the case. “Other computer repair businesses take advantage of their customers by telling them they have a lot of problems with their computer when really it’s just a simple fix,” he said. “We don’t do that. We’re honest and fair with all our clients.”

Robert will assist clients with a variety of services from providing on-site tech support, to installing custom-built computers, to tutoring (by appointment). The shop has many satisfied customers from across the area, including the towns of Tivoli, Rhinebeck, Red Hook, Germantown, and Pine Plains.

Hudson Valley Computer Geek is conveniently located on South Broadway in Red Hook, in the plaza with the Holy Cow ice cream shop. Contact Robert at (845) 901-7330 with any questions, or to schedule and appointment. You can also read about the range of services Hudson Valley Computer Geek offers by visiting their Web site at www.hvgeek.com.