the best computer for you
Computers are available for a wide range of prices. But remember that the price (excluding taxes) includes the profit of the manufacturer and the retailer! What you get is what you pay for and as a general rule, the less you pay the less you get!
It is important that you know what you want the computer to do so that you can choose a machine that is powerful enough and capable enough to do what you want!
Laptop or desktop computer
A laptop computer is a portable computer. Everything you need, except the power plug and your internet service, is in a device which is not much larger than an A4 piece of paper and approximately an inch thick! You may not even need the power plug since most laptops can operate on a battery for at least a few hours. read more ...
A desktop computer comes in discrete components, generally the processing box with the memory, the processor itself, the power supply, the monitor, the keyboard and the mouse. read more ...
Computer Monitors
A computer monitor
the Internet
If you want your computer to be on the internet then you need a paid service from an internet provider. The usual way for this to work is for a broadband connection via your telephone line. This shares the telephone line with your internet usage, and does not impact your use of the telephone. read more ...
Wireless
A wireless router is plugged into your telephone socket. This allows computers with the appropriate wireless connectors that are located throughout the house to connect to the internet.
The advantages are great. You can take your laptop into the garden on a sunny day and still be on the internet!
Security issues can be overcome by using inbuilt encryption and passwords on the router and the linked computers.
Printers
Printers are now available at very low prices, in particular the ink jet printers. It is almost as expensive to purchase replacement ink jet cartridges as it is to buy a new printer! read more ...
Backing up your data
This is a really important aspect that you must take control of. Responsibility for your data is down to you and no one else! read more ...
Security
There are various security devices
Viruses
Any computer that is connected to the internet is likely to be infected with a virus or have private information copied if basic security steps are not taken. It is essential that any computer that goes online is protected from being infected by viruses or worse! read more ...