So you want to buy a new computer, but you don't know which one to get?
First, you are going to have to figure out what you will be using the computer for. Let's take a look at the different types of computers and you will be able to choose which one fits best.
Desktop Computers: The most powerful and cost efficient (meaning buying parts for these are like buying parts for a Honda Civic, rather than an Aston Martin) computer platforms. They come in different shapes and sizes, as well as operating systems. Operating systems? There are three to choose from: Microsoft Windows, Apple Macintosh and the open source and free Unix/Linux systems. Assuming that you are reading this article, you are probably not going to be running a network server, so let's rule Linux out. Microsoft Windows will allow you access to a wider array of programs, games and compatability, but most virus' known today are for Windows-based systems. Apple provides a slim learning curve and has less virus threats. The only drawback is that you will have fewer programs and games due to the corporation's proprietary nature.
Notebook/Laptop Computers: The mobile market has exploded, overflowing into the computer market. It is now possible for you to connect your cellphone to newer laptops and use your phone as an internet connection. Amazing, yes I know! Laptops come with a centered list of pro and cons, so let's jump into them:
Pros
Cons
Mobility, take your computer anywhere.
Short Battery Life.
Same features as your desktop computer.
Not as powerful as a desktop computer.
Built-in WiFi, tap into public internet nodes.
Wireless internet is still not as stable as wired.
Small and compact.
Less customization/upgrades.
There are many more pros and cons, but these are the key features. Most would prefer to have both, but most of us can only afford one.
So now that we know the differences, which one do I choose?
That would really depend on your personal preference, but we can go into some hypothetical situations and determine which computer will satisfy your needs.
When I get home from work, I just want to check my email, bank account and update my NetFlicks...
A: You likely live alone or with many cats, but having a stable, less-expensive system would suit your
needs. You would probably want to invest into a desktop computer.
I am a hardcore gamer and I need to play the newest and best games all day long...
A: You likely live alone as well, but have a need for the most powerful computers around. You would be
best suited to purchase a desktop computer. Please note that in this case, the cost of a powerful
desktop computer will exceed that of a notebook computer.
I am a robot and coffee is my blood...
A: Costco sells coffee in bulk. But if you are like most people, you want it frothy and with a 100 word
name. Luckily, you can purchase a notebook computer and take it to your favorite coffee shop. Please
note that a years worth of coffee-shop coffee will exceed the cost of your notebook computer.
I'm rich, married to a supermodel and can pull off wearing pink polos...
A: Well done! You probably lead a busy life.... In any case, you would probably benefit from both types of
computers.
So, are you ready to choose your new computer(s)?
Since I am a table/chart type of guy, let's take a look at which vendors will give you the best deal.
Vendors
Dell
Ranges from budget to high performance computers.
Apple
More expensive, but if you felt like you wanted an Apple.
Best Buy
More expensive...
NewEgg.com
Lowest Price. Build-it-yourself or pre-built computers.
Alienware
Most expensive. High performance systems, great design.
If you really need help choosing your computer components, you should stick to a company that specializes in computers like Dell, Apple, NewEgg or Alienware. Each of these companies have support agents that will be able to assist you.
I hope that this article has helped you decide which type of computer to purchase. For additional tips or if you want to comment, please feel free to send me an email using the form at the bottom of this page.
Protect Yourself While Surfing.
February 29, 2008 -- 7:32 AM
Okay... So, you are tired of those mystery pop-up ads that take control of your screen?
Well, there are solutons available to you (the consumer) that would avoid alerting those geeks that swoop in and save the day while driving VW Bugs. I will show you how to clean out your computer, without cleaning out your wallet.
First, we need to identify where the problem lies. Yes, Adware (or pop-ups) usually lie to your computer in order to keep it's position a secret. Luckily for you, I will show you where to get some predator goggles so that we can hunt down those ads. There are many great programs out there, but our FREE weapon of choice today will be Ad-Aware 2007 by Lavasoft, Inc. You can download this program for free by following this link: Ad-Aware Personal
Once you have Ad-Aware installed, open it up. You will be prompted by the program to update your Virus Definitions File, please do so because that file will tell Ad-Aware where to look on your computer. It is a good practice to take a moment every week and keep that file up to date. Now that we have an updated Definition file, it's time to run a scan of your system. There are two options available when you hit [Scan] which are: Smart Scan and Full Scan. Of course, the best way to rid yourself of pop-up ads and spyware is to perform a FULL scan of your system. So, save your work and grab yourself some beef jerky because this scan will take awhile...
Once the scan has completed, it will ask you what you would like to do? This is where you vocalize your favorite Dirty Harry quote and delete all traces of adware from your system. In most cases, Ad-Aware will prompt you to restart your computer so that it can sweep your RAM (Random Access Memory, what? Memory that programs use on a temporary basis) and clear out any lingering traces of foul-play. And that is it! Sometimes, you will find that certain nasty spyware programs will still remain, this is the time you go to your local electronics store and pick up a copy of Trend Micro's PC-Cillin. PC-Cillin (aka Internet Security 2008) is probably the best anti-spyware program on the market to date. It is not the cheapest, but in this case you get what you pay for.
Well, that completes our sweep of the system, but how can we avoid being infected?
I am glad that you asked! First, Microsoft tries to combat the growing spyware epidemic by implementing a system fail-safe called Windows Defender. You can download this program for free directly from the Microsoft website, or by clicking on the following link: Windows Defender
Once installed, it will prompt you to update it's Virus Definition File (much like Ad-Aware) and perform a system scan. Please do so. Once you have finished that we can continue.
Done? Okay great! Windows Defender will most likely prompt you to perform a system scan. It is up to you to do so, but Ad-Aware has most likely taken care of that. Windows Defender actively scans your system as you browse, so if it finds anything harmful it will let you know.
As for browsing it is very important stay away from websites that are not generally known by the masses. How can you tell? Do a simple Google search with the company's name. If the website pops up within the first page it is usually okay. This validation technique is not bullet-proof, but it will let you know that many people go to that website through Google.
The Yellow Bar.
With most updated windows-based computers, a yellow bar will appear at the top of the webpage when the website is trying to upload something or throw a pop-up at your face. Only allow these actions if you trust this website, or you really need to see that pop-up. That yellow bar is the only thing keeping the website from potentially harming your computer and ego.
That concludes part one of this rant, so please be a safe-surfer and check back frequently for more tips!
