Computers & Networking

[biff]

Okay, I am a TV/computer guy and I just wanted to share some tips for the new computer users out there.  I DO NOT work for Best Buy or affiliates or anything like that, nor do I work for or am affiliated with these following sites in any shape or form.  These tips are for the average users,  (I am a linux noob BTW *ducks*)

1. If you buy a new computer, ALWAYS buy a 10 pack of DVR's.  You will need about five these to make Windows system/factory discs.  When you unwrap that new computer and turn it on for the first time, the first thing you should always do is make those factory discs. A little popup window will appear in the lower right corner of the screen. ALWAYS DO THIS FIRST!!!!

1a.  If you get a laptop, don't spend over $600 for one.  If you need a high performance computer, get a desktop.  Laptops have a shorter lifespan, because many can be affected by various environments.  Some people even take them to the bathroom.   They sometimes even take them to the bathroom at a public place, and that is just NASTY!  Also, track pads sucks.  Save yourselves LOTS of frustration and get a USB wireless mouse for ten bucks, and turn it off when you are not using it.

2.  Get  Firefox.  Internet Explorer sucks.  Period. 

3.  Run Windows Updates, even if all the updates take you all day.  Do it.

4.  After you complete all Windows Updates, get CCleaner at www.piriform.com.  You can customize for it to work however you want.   No, you will NOT blow up your computer experimenting.  Use this to clean out your temp folders and application and browser garbage.  When you get more comfortable with you, try using the registry tool, ONLY if you feel brave enough (This will not blow up your computer either)

5. Get antivirus software.  I like Microsoft Security Essentials and TrendMicro.  Many will disagree with me, but look around.  DO NOT get more than two AV software suites, because it hogs up valuable resources from your computer and may even attack each other.

6. Last, but not least, do not participate in sending pointless and awful emails.  You know what I mean.  Stuff like " FWD:FWD:FWD: Jesus loves you!", or "Chuck Norris Jokes", or *insert political propaganda email here".  Don't do it.  If any email is THAT important, then you should CALL the person in the first place.  Use your email to send business notes, documents and pictures, but that's it!

7.  If you want to learn more about computers, check out www.seniorsguidetocomputers.com  There are things on that site that even seasoned users may learn a thing or two about.

Flame away!!!!!!!!

[kst8no1]

After reading all that I want to combine all your steps into one easy one-

1. Buy an Apple Computer.

[RealGeorgeW Valued Expert]

The only point I'd really disagree on is the $600 limit on a laptop. That's just silly.

[biff · Accepted solution]

The way I a have seen people go through laptops.  Seen so many people get upset they buy a $1000 laptop and they break it, like the motherboard fries or they drop it without have any ADH coverage from anyone.  I got the limit from personal expereince alone.

As for Apple, they are good computers, I know, but I have also seen little old ladies return them because their grandkids told them to get one and they are just completely lost one how to use them.