First of all, computers can be very frustrating. No matter how much you may know about them, they will often do things that make no sense. The more you learn, the more there is to learn, so don’t get discouraged.

If you have an old computer, you can keep it as a backup, as one for your spouse, or for kids when they come to visit. It can be networked very easily with your existing computer so that the Internet and/or your printer can be shared. Or you can use your existing monitor with a new system.

Start by looking at ads from computer stores. This will get you used to seeing how they advertise the different things I mentioned and give you an idea of prices. A computer doesn’t have to be a name brand, those are good, but like special cars, the parts may be more expensive. If you do want a name brand, I have had a number of Dell computers (once upon a time I ran an Internet cafe) and was pleased with their customer service and quick delivery. They also include easy instructions for setting up and connecting each part.

Next, make a list of all the things you want to be able to do on your computer. Then if you can get a computer with those programs on it, that will save a lot of headaches. Every time you install new software, your computer changes the information inside it and sometimes doesn’t work properly after. Plus, some programs are not compatible with others. So the more you can have installed initially, the better. Ask other people to tell you the programs they find most useful. It’s easy to become addicted to buying software, and you can waste a lot of money buying software that isn’t much good, so save yourself the trouble. (Now if I could just follow my own advice and stay out.

© 2005 Carol Bremner