7 Key Steps To Purchasing A New Computer
by BB Lee (C)2001
mailto:smallbiz@angelfire.com

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Take the hassle out of purchasing a computer by doing some homework on what exactly you want from your computer along with your budgeting limits.
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Purchasing a computer is a major decision, whether it
be for a business or personal use. Let's face it
purchasing a new computer can be overwhelming and
down right intimidating if you don't prepare before
you go to the computer store.

To take the hassle out of purchasing a computer it would
help to do some homework on what exactly you want from
your computer and how much your budget will allow.

Here are key questions to consider:

1. What type of operating system will you need. Will
you need it for heavy graphics for designing web-sites
or primarily for word-processing, if you are a writer.

2. Do you plan to do a lot of surfing on the Internet,
download a lot of software. Or do you need a computer
to keep track of your finances or business spreadsheets.
Or do you plan to produce a newsletter. This will determine the minimum requirements. If you run a lot of
game software you will need major memory.

3. How much can you afford? It's good practice to buy
as much as your budget allows. Most entry level computers start at around $1000 to $3000. These entry
level models should be packaged with a monitor, microprocessor, memory, hard drive, keyboard, printer.

4. Laptop or Desktop?
A lap top is perfect if you do a lot of traveling. Great for kids going away to college. Perfect if you don't have a lot of desk space or want mobility around the house. Desktops although not as convenient are easily expandable.

5. Local or through mail-order?
Purchasing a computer at your local store would be
very advantageous. You can get a free demonstration and can return to ask questions.

Purchasing through mail-order or over the Internet requries the consumer to deal with customer service over the telephone. And get answers from a service technician if any problems arise. This can be very inconvenient and time consuming. If you have to return the computer you will have to ship it back.

6. Should you purchase an extended warranty?
Will you make heavy duty use of your computer. Extended warranties are an option you should consider to cover defects and problems.

7.Don't Forget This.
Surge protectors, Virus Protection, Fire-Walls?
A surge protector is used to protect your computer from
electrical spikes. If your computer is not packaged with one, purchase the best you can afford.

It's also a good idea to purchase virus software to review each new file downloaded to your machine. It's an absolutel must if you surf the Internet and download information or software.

AVG Virus Protection
With viruses and worms going around lately, this FREE
virus scanner comes highly recommended by many.
Go here to download: http://www.grisoft.com

Firewall protection is needed if you are on the Internet. This will protect your computer's personal files from hackers.

Zone Alarm
Zone Alarm is a favorite and it is FREE for personal use.
http://www.cnet.com/downloads

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BB Lee is Editor/Publisher of SmallBizBits Newsletter.
Your Home Based Business Connection On the Internet.
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