Below you can find links and answers to many commonly asked questions.
There are many quality virus and spyware programs available. The choice is yours but remember, most Laptop and Desktop computers only come with a trial version. After 60 to 90 days the software will expire leaving you unprotected. If you do purchase the software that came with your PC, you must remove the old software before installing the new. The easiest way to do this is through the "add remove" program in Windows control panel. If you are running Vista or Windows 7 it is called "uninstall a program" in Windows control panel. You will also need a quality spyware program and the best I have found is Malwarebytes. Malwarebytes is an excellent program for removing every type of spyware and its free. Viruses and Spyware can do a tremendous amount of damage to a computer so the best way to prevent a total meltdown is to keep your virus software up to date and be careful when surfing the Internet. If you are surfing the Internet and you get a pop message warning you of a virus, don't panic, it is most likely fake. Do not click on any part the message, X out of the program, make sure you virus and spyware software is up to date and run a scan using your programs.
Backup, Backup and Backup! Beyond the calls we receive concerning a virus or spyware, the next biggest issue is backing up. A virus or spyware has attacked your computer and it will no longer boot into Windows. All of your photos, music and memories are stored on that computer. The first question I ask, did you backup? The answer is usually no. For less than a $100.00 you can purchase a flash drive or external hard drive and protect your data and preserve those memories. Step two, send that information off site to a secure location. In the event of a disaster, you can retrieve your information with a few simple clicks.
With all the brands and choices available, how do you choose the right desktop or laptop? Well, that depends on your needs but the old saying "you get what you pay for" still rings true. Now, if you are a serious computer geek, you already know what to do so we won't address the high end computers. On the other hand if you need a computer that can do the basics, here are my suggestions. For around $700.00 you can get a good desktop computer and spend around $900.00 and you'll get a nice laptop. There are two CPU choices. Intel or AMD. Both are quality processors and will handle most applications with no problem. The CPU is what powers the computer along with it's memory. You'll here terms like Dual Core or Quad Core etc. The more powerful the processor, the faster the computer. Windows XP is no longer available. Windows 7 is the OS of choice. Most store bought desktops come with Windows 7 Premium. The amount of memory is also important. Windows 7 really needs 2 gig of system memory or ram and 3 gig is even better. Just about any hard drive is going to be 250GB or more. The computer will come with a trial version of a Virus Software and Microsoft Office. The monitor will be a flat screen anywhere from 19" and up.