Switchboard Tech Services now focuses on Linux conversions, software support, website services, and specialized technical work in Kirksville.
A Change in Services
Tech Help in Kirksville, Missouri
Leo Blanchette
Practical tech help in Kirksville
I help with Linux systems, connectivity, practical tech setup, coaching, and websites.
Clear rates, fast service, and a local focus near the Kirksville courthouse square.
- Linux Conversions & Setup
- Website Design & Maintenance
- House Calls & On-Site Tech Help
- Small Business Tech Support
- Tech Coaching
Switchboard Tech Services is a small mobile technology service based in downtown Kirksville.
I help people move to Linux, set up and maintain practical systems, solve on-site technology problems, and build or maintain straightforward websites for locals and small businesses.
Service update: I no longer accept computer or electronics repair jobs. Existing repair articles remain online as reference material.
No contracts and no gimmicks—just direct, practical help within a few miles of the courthouse.
🧰 See Services & Prices →
Transparent, local, and explained in basic English.
Contact Us
📍 Kirksville, MO
🏤 PO Box 594, Kirksville, MO 63501
📞 +1.660.956.1108 (text first)
✉️ theswitchboard@protonmail.com
🌐 https://switchboardtechservices.com
📘 Facebook Page
🏛️ Meetings: Adair County Courthouse, Kirksville, by arrangement
ℹ️ Computer and electronics repair services are no longer offered
🏤 PO Box 594, Kirksville, MO 63501
📞 +1.660.956.1108 (text first)
✉️ theswitchboard@protonmail.com
🌐 https://switchboardtechservices.com
📘 Facebook Page
🏛️ Meetings: Adair County Courthouse, Kirksville, by arrangement
ℹ️ Computer and electronics repair services are no longer offered
From the Workbench
See my major technical projects →
These are major projects I’ve created or am working on.
Read Switchboard’s latest posts →
Guides, local stories, and practical how-tos from the Switchboard workshop.
Computer Repair: What to Expect…
Computer repair is a delicate art. Here is what to expect when we repair your computer.
The Invisible Chains: Reclaiming Privacy from the Age of Acceptable Voyeurism
A clear look at how modern tracking, profiling, and attention-harvesting have become normalized as acceptable voyeurism in the digital world.
The Ultimate Combo: Fedora - Brave - Protonmail – For Kirksville, MO
Move from Windows to Fedora or Ubuntu paired with Brave and ProtonMail for stronger privacy, security, and control — a practical, low-cost upgrade for Kirksville users.
Primum Non Nocere: The Reality of Laptop Repair
A practical look at modern laptop repair, why some fixes make sense and others do not, and why honesty saves customers money.
Top Problems with 10-Year-Old PCs
A breakdown of the most common hardware and software problems found in 10-year-old desktop and laptop computers — and what can be done to keep them running.
Linux: Technically Consistent with the World’s Major Systems
Your Linux computer runs on the same core systems used by the internet, banks, and major institutions around the world.
Your OS Is a Moral Choice: right to repair, old hardware, and e-waste
A plain English look at why your operating system is more than convenience. It shapes repair rights, device lifespan, and how much junk ends up in landfills.
Why can’t my computer connect to the printer after a Windows update?
Seen this a lot:
- Update replaced or removed OEM printer drivers; reinstall the vendor package.
- Spooler service stuck; clear the print queue and restart the service.
- Network profile flipped (public/private) blocking discovery.
- SMB protocol/version or credentials changed for network printers.
Need help? Check here: /services/house-calls/
What it might be (likely causes)
Driver swap to “class” drivers
Feature updates sometimes replace vendor drivers with Microsoft “Class Driver” (IPP/Generic). That can break scanning, duplex defaults, or finishing options. Reinstall the OEM package.
Why can’t my computer find the Wi-Fi network?
Consider:
- Adapter disabled or flight mode toggled by a function key.
- 5 GHz-only router while the adapter is 2.4 GHz-only (or vice versa).
- Hidden SSID or unusual country/channel settings.
- Outdated Wi-Fi drivers or Windows network stack glitches.
- Distance and interference; walls and appliances matter.
Need help? Check here: /services/house-calls/
What it might be (likely causes)
Radio disabled or hard-switched
Laptops often have a physical wireless toggle or a Fn hotkey that kills the radio. Airplane mode also shuts off Wi‑Fi. A quick toggle brings the SSID list back.