The world of technology is constantly evolving, and with it, the ways we access and use our devices and software. In 2025, the line between “owning” a piece of tech and “renting” access to it is blurrier than ever. From streaming services replacing physical media to software subscriptions dominating perpetual licenses, the decision of whether to buy or subscribe has become a significant financial and practical consideration.
At AS Computer Solutions here in Onoway, we see clients grapple with this decision daily. Understanding what makes sense to own versus what’s better to rent (or subscribe to) can save you money, reduce clutter, and ensure you always have access to the latest and greatest. This isn’t just about saving a few dollars; it’s about optimizing your digital lifestyle for efficiency and value.
Let’s break down the key categories of tech and help you decide what’s best to own outright and what’s smarter to subscribe to in 2025.
✅ Own It: When Long-Term Value, Customization, and Privacy Matter
Certain tech items are still best bought and owned outright, especially when they represent a significant investment, allow for deep personalization, or are fundamental to your long-term digital life.
📌 Scenario 1: Your Primary Computer (Desktop or Laptop)
Why Own:
Long-Term Investment: A good quality PC can last 5-7 years, often longer with upgrades. The upfront cost is typically recouped over its lifespan.
Customization & Upgradability: Owning allows you to upgrade components (RAM, SSD, GPU) as your needs evolve, extending its useful life.
Data Control: Your files and personal data reside locally, offering greater control and privacy compared to relying solely on cloud-based services.
No Recurring Fees: Once purchased, the hardware itself doesn’t incur monthly costs.
Considerations in 2025:
While “PC as a Service” models exist for businesses, for individuals, owning your main workstation offers unmatched flexibility and cost-effectiveness over time.
The rise of AI-powered local processing further solidifies the value of owning a capable machine.
⚠️ Scenario 2: Smart Home Hubs & Core Infrastructure (Routers, Switches)
Why Own:
Foundation of Connectivity: These devices are the backbone of your home network. You want reliability and consistent performance.
Security & Control: Owning your router gives you full control over security settings, parental controls, and network management. Renting from an ISP often means limited features and less control.
Long Lifespan: Good quality routers and switches are durable and can last for many years, making the upfront cost minimal over time.
Considerations in 2025:
With the increasing number of smart devices, a robust, personally owned network infrastructure is critical for performance and security.
🔄 Scenario 3: Peripherals (Mouse, Keyboard, Monitor)
Why Own:
Personal Preference & Ergonomics: These are highly personal tools. You buy what feels comfortable and works best for you.
Durability: High-quality peripherals are built to last.
Cost-Effectiveness: The cost of renting these items monthly would quickly exceed their purchase price.
Considerations in 2025:
Even with subscription models for creative tools, you still need your own reliable input and output devices.
🛠️ Scenario 4: Specific Creative Hardware (Drawing Tablets, High-End Cameras)
Why Own:
Specialized Use: These tools are often highly specialized for specific hobbies or professions.
Deep Integration: Creative professionals often develop muscle memory and deeply integrate these tools into their workflow.
Depreciation vs. Utility: While they depreciate, their utility over many years often outweighs the cost.
🧰 Rent It (Subscribe): When Flexibility, Latest Features, and Scalability Matter
The subscription model has exploded for a reason. For many types of tech, “renting” access makes more sense, offering benefits like always having the latest version, reduced upfront costs, and scalability.
📌 Scenario 1: Software (Productivity Suites, Creative Apps, Security Software)
Why Rent/Subscribe:
Always Up-to-Date: You always have the latest features, security patches, and compatibility updates.
Lower Upfront Cost: Instead of a large lump sum, you pay a manageable monthly or annual fee.
Cloud Integration: Subscriptions often come with cloud storage and seamless syncing across devices.
Scalability: Easily add or remove users/features as your needs change.
Examples in 2025:
Microsoft 365: Access to Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, plus cloud storage and advanced security features.
Adobe Creative Cloud: Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro – essential for professionals who need the latest tools.
Premium Antivirus Software: Continuous updates for threat definitions are critical.
⚠️ Scenario 2: Streaming Services (Video, Music, Gaming)
Why Rent/Subscribe:
Vast Libraries: Access to an enormous catalogue of content without individual purchases.
Cost-Effective: Far cheaper than buying individual movies, albums, or games.
Flexibility: Cancel anytime if your interests change or you want to try a different service.
Always Fresh Content: New content is regularly added.
Examples in 2025:
Netflix, Disney+, Spotify, Apple Music, Xbox Game Pass, PlayStation Plus.
🔄 Scenario 3: Cloud Storage
Why Rent/Subscribe:
Accessibility: Access your files from any device, anywhere.
Redundancy & Backup: Your data is stored securely and backed up across multiple servers.
Scalability: Easily increase your storage space as your needs grow, without buying new hardware.
Collaboration: Essential for sharing and collaborating on documents.
Examples in 2025:
Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox.
🔌 Scenario 4: Advanced Cybersecurity Services (VPNs, Password Managers)
Why Rent/Subscribe:
Continuous Updates: Cybersecurity threats evolve daily. Subscription services ensure your protection is always current.
Feature-Rich: Premium services offer a wider range of features (e.g., unlimited data, multiple server locations for VPNs, advanced monitoring).
Cross-Device Syncing: Seamless protection and access across all your devices.
Examples in 2025:
NordVPN, LastPass, 1Password.
Conclusion: A Balanced Approach
In 2025, the optimal approach to tech ownership is a hybrid model. You’ll likely own the core hardware that forms the foundation of your digital life—your primary computer, router, and essential peripherals. These are assets that offer long-term value, customization, and direct control over your data.
Conversely, you’ll “rent” access to much of your software and content through subscriptions. This provides unparalleled flexibility, ensures you always have the latest versions, and often proves more cost-effective than trying to buy everything outright, especially for services with frequently updated content or features.
The key is to evaluate your individual needs, usage patterns, and budget. Don’t fall into the trap of subscribing to services you rarely use, but also don’t invest heavily in hardware that might be better accessed as a service.
Mouse or Keyboard Not Working? Try These Quick Fixes Before Calling for Help
Few things are more frustrating than a suddenly unresponsive mouse or keyboard—especially when you’re right in the middle of something important. Whether you’re replying to emails, working on a spreadsheet, or just Browse, losing control of your input devices can grind your entire workflow to a halt.
At AS Computer Solutions here in Onoway, we get calls about this issue all the time. The good news? You might not need a new mouse or keyboard—or even a service call. Most of the time, the fix is quick and simple. So before you panic or start shopping for replacements, try these easy steps first.
✅ Step 1: Rule Out the Basics
Let’s start with the obvious (but often overlooked):
🔄 Reboot Your Computer
It sounds cliché, but a quick restart often clears up temporary bugs or software glitches affecting input devices.
🔌 Check the Connections
For Wired Devices:
Unplug and reconnect the USB cable.
Try a different USB port—especially one directly on the back of your desktop or laptop.
For Wireless Devices:
USB Receiver (Dongle): Make sure it’s securely plugged in. Try another port if needed.
Power Switch: Double-check that it’s turned ON.
Batteries: Swap in fresh batteries—even if the old ones were “just replaced.”
Re-pairing (Bluetooth): You may need to re-sync the device to your computer. Refer to the manual for instructions.
🛠️ Step 2: Targeted Troubleshooting
Depending on what’s acting up, here’s what to do next:
📌 Scenario 1: Only the Mouse or Keyboard Isn’t Working
When one device works but the other doesn’t, it’s likely a fault with the device itself or its connection.
Try This:
Test the device on another computer.
If it works there, your original system may have a driver or port issue.
If it doesn’t, the device might be faulty.
For Windows Users:
Press Windows + X, select Device Manager.
Expand Keyboards or Mice and other pointing devices.
Look for any ⚠️ yellow exclamation marks or ❌ red Xs.
Right-click the affected device and select:
Update driver
Or Uninstall device → then reboot to reinstall it automatically.
For Bluetooth Devices:
Windows: Settings > Bluetooth & Devices → Make sure Bluetooth is on. Remove and re-pair the device.
macOS: System Settings > Bluetooth → Remove and re-add the device.
⚠️ Scenario 2: Neither Mouse nor Keyboard Is Working
This can be tricky since you can’t easily navigate menus.
Try This:
Unplug everything except power and monitor. Restart the system.
Then plug in just the mouse or keyboard one at a time.
Test multiple USB ports—front and back. Try both USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 if available.
Boot into Safe Mode:
On Windows: Hold Shift during restart, or tap F8 repeatedly during boot (older systems).
On Mac: Hold Shift immediately after powering on.
If things work in Safe Mode, a software or driver conflict is likely.
Inspect cables, connectors, and ports for physical damage.
🔄 Scenario 3: Mouse Works, Keyboard Doesn’t (or Vice Versa)
This often indicates a driver issue or hardware failure in the non-working device.
Follow the steps under “Check Device Manager” and test the faulty device on another computer to isolate the issue.
🧰 Still No Luck? Bring It to the Pros
If none of the above fixes do the trick, don’t stress—AS Computer Solutions is here to help.
We can:
Run advanced diagnostics to identify system or driver conflicts
Repair or replace damaged ports or input devices
Check for underlying issues like malware or system corruption
Recommend reliable replacement options that suit your needs
🏡 Local. Reliable. Ready to Help.
Serving Onoway and surrounding communities, AS Computer Solutions is your go-to for friendly, affordable tech support.
Don’t let input issues slow you down. Try the steps above first, and if you’re still stuck, give us a shout. We’ll get your mouse, keyboard—and your productivity—back on track.
Call or visit us today:
📞 (780) 967 0215
📍 Onoway, Alberta
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