Time for an upgrade! The fifth edition of The Complete Idiot's Guide® to Computer Basics places the reader in charge of the computer, rather than the other way around, and places the focus on software troubleshooting rather than hardware techno-babble. The reader wants to do something practical with his or her computer—this book shows them how. • Covers basic office programs and how to manage photo, video, and music files • Advice on safe web-surfing, including coverage of newsgroups, message boards, and mailing lists • New green computing initiatives that help protect the environment • Maintenance and upgrading information

Most computer documentation is based on the assumption that the computer's owner already knows something beyond the basics about computer operation. The Complete Idiot's Guide® to Computer Basics, Fifth Edition,assumes differently. This book places the reader in charge of the computer, rather than the other way around, and correctly identifies that the reader wants to do something practical with his or her computer but has little knowledge for doing so. In The Complete Idiot's Guide® to Computer Basics, Fifth Edition, readers will find- Clear explanations of the basics of office programs. Ways to tap the power of the Internet. Information on finding lost or misplaced files. Coverage of newsgroups, message boards, and mailing lists. The basics of working with music, photos, and video on your computer. Ways to help protect the environment with green computing, as well as maintenance and upgrading.

A reference based title written in an approachable first person point of view. This book teaches a reader what a PCs is, how to use it, and how to use it productively without intimidating or offending him. Straight-forward conversational tone on customizing and organizing the PC, connecting to the internet, using peripherals like modems and multimedia. The reader is provided basic information in purchasing a new PC or its components. Finally the reader learns how various software applications can help him create documents and spreadsheets. This book gives its readers the foundation on what a PC is and how to use it in everyday language without being intimidated or insulted. Complete Idiot's Guide to PCs, 6th Edition is a task-oriented explanation of the PC, how to use it, and how to use PC software.

Discover how to do just about anything with your Windows 7 PC The Complete Idiot's Guide® to PC Basics, Windows 7 Edition shows you how to do practical and fun stuff with your PC, including . . . Basics • Navigate and personalize Windows 7 • Manage disks, files, and folders • Install and uninstall programs • Use office applications, including a word processor and spreadsheet • Manage your personal finances • Get up and running with email Fun Stuff • Manage your digital photos and share them online • Transform a collection of photos into a movie and burn it to a DVD • Download music and transfer it to your MP3 player or CDs • Get connected with friends, family, and old school chums on Facebook • Tweet on Twitter • Discover cool features on Google you never knew existed • Watch and share video on YouTube • Find deals on eBay and other shopping sites • Create your own website or blog for free • Make free or really cheap phone calls all over the world with Skype For power users • Set up a home or small-business network • Protect your computer from viruses and other online threats • Upgrade and troubleshoot your PC From the Author You don't need to be a mechanic to drive a car, and you don't need to be a technician to use a computer. This book puts you in the driver's seat and shows you how to get where you're going with your computer, its software, and the Internet. Whether you want to manage your finances or your photos, connect with family and friends on Facebook, or buy and sell stuff on eBay, this book provides the step-by-step guidance that shows you how to do it.

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Buying a Computer covers ALL the necessary considerations to make BEFORE you purchase that computer. What are your computing needs? Mobility? Ease? Portability? Power? Multimedia features? This book leads you through the initial assessment of your computer needs. It then takes you through an industry overview of computers (desktop vs. laptop vs. hand-held) with the inside scoop on the pros and cons of these machines. You will learn about clones and how to decide whether or not to make the clone purchase. You'll also receive information about where to go to make that computer purchase (and where not to go), and what kinds of questions to ask. A tear-out checklist is included to take with you when making your computer investment.