• Creating a secure password
  
  
• How to protect yourself against identity theft
  
  
• Wireless networking basics
  
  
• How to create mp3s and burn CDs using media players
  
  
• How to protect your computer from power surges
  
  
• Know when to upgrade your video card
  
  
• Know when to upgrade your memory or hard drive
  
  
• How to choose your next computer
  
  
• What is broadband and do I need it
  
  
• What is VoIP and should I choose it

How to choose your next computer

Desktop or Laptop

Why choose a desktop? Because you get more power and features that just can't fit into a notebook-sized package. You can have surround sound, advanced video, big monitors, plus you always get more for your money. If space is not an issue and you don't need to move your PC around with you then a desktop is your best choice.

If you want the freedom to sit outside, go down to the local coffee shop, or use it for a business trip, a laptop is your choice. Newer models are equally as good as most desktop PCs with many featuring widescreen LCD panels for High Definition DVD viewing. However all this doesn't come without a price, laptops will always be higher in cost with the higher spec models being significantly more expensive than their desktop counterparts.

Desktops

Step 1: choose your processor type
The single most important factor in the cost and performance of your computer is the processor. There are two main manufacturers, Intel and AMD. Intel are more well know but are slightly more expensive than their AMD equivalent. Next consider the speed. Processor speeds are measured in gigahertz (GHz), and the higher the number, the faster the processor. If you only want to check e-mail, manage your personal finances and perform other simple functions, you can save money by going with a slower processor. However if you plan to have multiple applications open at once, look for a faster processor. For gaming or multimedia applications like photo/video editing, you will want the fastest processor that fits your budget. ComputerGeeks2Go recommend you buy the fastest processor you can afford, this will prolong the use of your PC and avoid having to replace it every year. Choosing a slower model may seem like a good money saving tip but it will always mean you need to upgrade sooner.

Step 2: add a monitor
Once you've chosen the perfect PC, it's time to add a monitor. The monitor is the most visible part of your computer, so you'll want one that has the screen size you need and the style you want. LCD screens are becoming very popular now but their cost is higher than their CRT equivalents. If you want cut costs and have space for a bigger monitor, buy a CRT monitor and save some money.

ComputerGeeks2Go always recommend checking Dell Home Desktop Offers. .

Laptops

Step 1: choose your screen size
Notebook PCs feature LCDs that use active matrix technology (also called Thin Film Transistor, or TFT) to create bright, crisp colors and a fast refresh rate. TFT comes in three formats:

• XGA (Extended Graphics Array): 1024 X 768 resolution (786,000 pixels)
• SXGA (Super Extended Graphics Array): 1280 X 1024 resolution (over 1 million pixels)
• UXGA (Ultra Extended Graphics Array): 1600 X 1200 resolution (nearly 2 million pixels)

The size and quality of the screen is one of the biggest factors in a notebook's price, so carefully consider your needs and balance them against your budget.

For normal use a 15" or 17" screen is the way to go. Many feature widescreen aspect ratios, similar to many LCD and plasma TVs. This wider aspect ratio is perfect for watching DVDs and working on multimedia projects. The larger screen will be more comfortable for daily use, but will make your notebook heavier and may drain the battery faster.

Smaller, lighter notebooks are great for frequent travel, or as a companion to your desktop model. Weight will be crucial if you are toting your notebook around campus or through airports every day. Versions with 12" or 13" screens can weigh as little as four or five pounds. The smaller display may not be as easy on the eyes, but your notebook case will be much easier to carry.

Step 2: look for mobile processors and wireless capability
Mobile processors such as the Intel Pentium M and AMD Sempron offer more power as well as longer battery life. Battery life is crucial if you are not going to be connected to a wall outlet as laptops can drain batteries fast. ComputerGeeks2Go recommend you buy a mobile processor and if you intend to be on the road or away from wall power consider buying a second battery.

Mobile processors also come with built-in wireless capability which can be used for going online in airports, coffee shops, and fast food outlets. However if your laptop doesn't come with built in wi-fi capability then don't despair, you can buy a USB wi-fi connector or a wi-fi card which will slide in the side of your laptop. ComputerGeeks2Go recommend that if you experience poor wi-fi connections then purchase an external card or connector as these offer superior range.

ComputerGeeks2Go always recommend checking Dell Home Laptop Offers. .

Step 3: Memory (Desktop or Laptop)

Random Access Memory (RAM) is the working memory in your PC. After the processor, RAM is the next biggest factor in system speed. As your computer operates, it uses RAM to process programs and information. The more memory you have, the faster you will be able to load, print, and download your files. To play games or surf the Internet you'll want to start with at least 512MB of RAM. ComputerGeeks2Go recommend upgrading to 1GB of RAM if you multi-task or work with large files.

Step 4: Hard Drives (Desktop or Laptop) The hard drive provides storage for your computer's programs and frequently-used data. Most hard drives today are rated in gigabytes (GB). A hard drive is permanent storage for your data. Programs, images, music files, and data take up a lot of space on your hard drive, so make sure you start with plenty of room. If you plan to use gaming software or multimedia applications, you'll want the largest hard drive that fits your budget.