Computer/Laptop buying guides: Getting started
1. Computer/Laptop Buying Guides #1: Getting started
2. Computer/Laptop Buying Guides #2: Types
3. Computer/Laptop Buying Guides #3: Features
4. Computer/Laptop Buying Guides #4: Brands
5. Computer/Laptop Buying Guides #5: Shopping tips
Getting started
If you are having hard time deciding in upgrading your systems this article is for you. Snow Leopard and Windows 7 are the operating systems currently used by Apple and Microsoft. Windows 7 is more refined and is less prone to crashing. It has additional features but it has fewer annoyances. Snow Leopard compared with earlier versions, boots faster. It also eats less hard-drive space and loads web pages more quickly.

Whether it is Mac OS or Windows base, there is an array of green computers which are lean and mean. Chips that are efficient and powerful, have environmentally friendly designs, and have space saving profiles in the new computer models. Security conscious computers are still the best computers. This feature will secure the machine and data out of reach of untrusted parties.
Bulky and boxy desktop computer abounds but slimmer models are now available. All-in-ones is now offered by some brands, this model integrate the entire computer parts into the display.

You can also choose Netbooks which weighs only 2-3 found and has 10-12 inch displays. They are the best buddy while travelling, since they aim to be your second computers. They are very friendly that it can be used to introduce computers in the child.
The interest in highly portable tablets was ignited by the introduction of Apple’s iPad. These highly portable tablet computers has simpler interface and is more intuitive than PC.
Not all “great deals” advertised by shops are great. Customers are expected to be vigilant with the problems. Take a closer look before you buy a bargain PC at a very low price. To reduce the cost single core Celeron processors are used to replace dual-core processors. Watch out to those items that look like full-blown laptops and desktops sometimes use less-powerful Atom processors in their system. This will result to poor computer performance especially in watching videos or playing 3D games.
Single core processors must be avoided if you want to purchase personal computers for general purpose. Your PC must have 160 GB of space. If you are looking for low-cost notebook for surfing the web and performing some office operations, you should purchase netbooks with at least 160 GB space and it must be Atom-based.
Do you need a new PC?
Sluggish computers must be replaced with newer models. Trying to delete some programs that are rarely used can be a first aid. You can also add one Gigabyte memory to computer which aged four years. This is the most convenient and inexpensive mode of upgrading your computer.
If the hard drive is full, it is best to add another hard drive. You can use external hard drive which is the easiest way of upgrading computer. Even an amateur can perform it. To add more space on the hard drive secure a copy of pictures and old music in DVD or CD, and delete them into the hard drive.
Run the Disk Defragmenter after all the old files are transferred to an external hard drive. Accomplishing this simple step will enable you to access it faster.
If all of the steps did not work, it would be best to replace it. Wipe the hard drive first and recycle the remaining parts of the computer.
Windows vs. Macintosh?
The latest version among the Microsoft’s operating system is Windows 7. It can cost you around 120-200 US dollars.

The best alternative to Windows is Mac OS X. If you choose to use Windows in apple computer, you have to purchase the software and install it in your computer. Snow leopard is the lasts version among Apple’s operating system. An Apple user can upgrade for only 30 dollars. It would cost $ 1o dollars if you purchased your Mac after June 2009.
Should you upgrade to Windows 7?
It is important to check you computers compatibility before you make any decision. Consulting Microsoft’s Upgrade Adviser can be a great help.
You’re happy with your current system and OS.
Unpredictable problems might occur by the time you upgrade. Windows 7 can be very cool, but you have to put in mind that it is not perfect software. Downloading critical Windows update can help this time. Installing an antivirus program is the best step if you don’t have any security software running. Yu can also use Microsoft Security essentials, free antivirus software recently released by Microsoft.
You’re a Vista user frustrated with its performance and other shortcomings.
Windows 7 has enhanced features that cannot be found in Vista and is more stable. It also provides options for you to have a grip on those frustrating User Account Controls
You recently bought a new computer and qualify for a free upgrade
If you purchased Vista-based Computers from late June through January 2010, you are eligible to get free Windows 7 upgrade. The software will be sent to you, but keep in mind that you might pay the shipping and other costs. If you are using Vista Basic-based computers, you are not eligible for Windows 7 upgrade.
You’re an XP user
If you use XP as your OS and want a Windows 7 upgrade, upgrade adviser should be checked. You can upgrade if you’re cleared for Windows 7. Temporarily upgrade to Vista and then upgrade to Windows 7.












