An Important Announcement Regarding CLOAK Computing

After a great deal of consideration, I’ve made the difficult decision to step away from operating CLOAK Computing as a full-time business. Unfortunately, the move to my new location in Evans City hasn’t worked out as I had hoped, and I believe it’s time to take a different approach.

First and foremost, I want to sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this transition may cause. I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported CLOAK over the years, whether you’ve purchased equipment, brought in a device for repair, recommended my services, or simply followed along with the journey.

What does this mean moving forward?

CLOAK Computing will be transitioning primarily to an online business, with sales and purchases handled mainly through my eBay store and Facebook Marketplace. I will continue refurbishing computers, electronics, and other technology, but in-person transactions will need to be arranged through a public meetup by appointment, with a signed acknowledgment where appropriate. I will continue updating this page and sharing projects, inventory, and business updates as time goes on.

My repair labor rate will remain $35 per hour, and I will continue offering select services, including:

• Computer repair, troubleshooting, and refurbishment

• Mobile device repairs, particularly cracked screen replacements

• Security camera installations and related subcontracting work

• Technology sales, refurbished equipment, and other electronics projects

For my existing and former customers, I will continue to provide services whenever possible. New customers will need to schedule an appointment in advance by email or phone so I can coordinate each job accordingly.

This decision hasn’t come easily. Running a small business has always been challenging, and the combination of inflation, financial pressures, personal circumstances, and the difficulties of operating a business from a residential property has made it increasingly difficult to sustain CLOAK in its previous form. Financial setbacks have also limited my ability to invest in the equipment and resources needed to properly test, refurbish, and prepare inventory for sale.

Rather than continue putting myself under the financial strain of operating a traditional storefront, I’ve decided to scale things back and treat CLOAK more as a passion project and hobby while continuing to serve customers where I can.

Looking back, I can honestly say it’s been quite a journey. There have been challenges, unexpected turns, and plenty of lessons learned along the way, but I wouldn’t trade the experience for anything. I’ve had the opportunity to work with some wonderful people, restore countless pieces of technology, and build something that I’m proud of.

Thank you for being part of the CLOAK Computing journey. Your support has meant more to me than you may realize. Although this marks the end of CLOAK as a traditional, full-time business, it is not necessarily the end of CLOAK itself.

I’ll still be here, working on projects, selling refurbished technology, and helping customers when I can. The business may look different from now on, but my passion for technology and repair hasn’t gone away.

Thank you again for everything. It’s been a blast!

— Ethan Wagner
CLOAK Computing