What's the best reference tool to learn how to use my new computer? I'm a novice at this.?

Question

We bought a new computer recently and I want to be able to get the most use of it. I want to know about so many things, and I want to also belong to conversation groups, as people who are interested in books, pets, sewing, knitting, cooking, baking and so forth. I want to know the best ways to do personal research. Matty

Answer 1

This is really difficult because everyone learns things differently. You may benefit from some good basic reference books that are primarily text, or you might like the visual guides that are mostly illustrations and photos. You may need to attend a class (check with the nearest community college or trade school), or you may just need to play around on your own. As far as books go, first try your library. They often don't have the most recent stuff in this area because it does change so rapidly, but at least give it a try. Look for books that are specific to your operating system (probably Microsoft Windows XP) and others that are specific to your programs or office suite (like Microsoft Works, Microsoft Office, WordPerfect Office, etc.). I like to search for books (and everything else) on Amazon.com, then check out their customer reviews to get a sense of the product before I buy it. Epinions is another website that people write reviews of products, and it can be very helpful.

You can also try a computer magazine that is geared toward beginners. I've had luck with Smart Computing, for example. I wouldn't bother with a subscription - just buy a single magazine and see if it helps at all before making a commitment.

There are 87,000 ways to do anything you can think of on the computer. There are search engines for researching, from Google (a personal favorite) to Ask to MSN to Yahoo, and many (many!) more. Another great place to research is Wikipedia.

As far as groups, go to the main Yahoo page, then click Groups on the left side. Enter your particular interest (or interests) and click Search. It will bring up a list of groups, and possibly a list of categories so you can refine your search. Most groups require you to "apply" but that's no big deal. Groups are a lot of fun, just remember that, while most people are who they claim to be, there may be a few who are taking advantage of the anonymity of the Internet.

Restrict the information you provide on the internet. Use a screen name, rather than your real name. Don't put too much in your profile, and restrict who can view it. Don't open e-mails from people you don't know. NEVER open an attachment if you are unsure about it's content. Get a decent virus protection software (I like Trend Micro, and you can get a free 30 day trial download) and keep it up to date. If you have cable or DSL, you have an "always on" connection, and should have a decent firewall. Make sure it's turned on in Microsoft Security Center. You can also download a free firewall from Zone Alarm.

Consider using a web browser other than Internet Explorer. More than 80% of people use Internet Explorer, and that's what most of the internet-based viruses are programmed exploit. If you use something like Mozilla Firefox, you're much less likely to "catch" a virus. It's free to download. They also have an email program called Thunderbird that you can use instead of Outlook.

One other thing - I recommend having at least two e-mail addresses, one through your internet service provider, and a free one through Yahoo, Hotmail, etc. Use the free e-mail address whenever you sign up for something (online or on paper), or if you're giving it to someone who might share it with others. Use the one from your internet service provider only for private e-mails from close friends and family. If you start getting overwhelmed with spam on the free address, it's easy to drop it and get a different address, and you won't have all of that garbage coming into your Outlook Express (or whatever mail software you use).

I know it sounds a bit overwhelming, but just be smart about things and you'll be fine.

Answer 2

Hey Matty,

First, check to see if you have Virus protection. Please do NOT get into any of those groups before you have it. Tooooo many viruses can kill your computer.

I just started playing around with different websites and learned which were good for me. There are clubs (no chg) that you can join and many have discussion groups. Just have patience and have fun with your new 'toy'.

Answer 3

Depends on your operating system,but all computer stores have books , like windows for dummies,etc. No offense.