Datasheet

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16
Part I: First Steps with Your Computer
However, Windows XP doesn’t come with as many
security tools. If you decide to use Windows XP, find a
friend or family member who’s knowledgeable about
computers and can help you use XP features or other
software programs that will help keep your computer
secure. Note that if you’re using Vista or XP, some of
the steps for common tasks are different than they are
if you use Windows 7; however, you can still use this
book to find out about many computer basics.
Choose a Price Range
You can buy a computer for anywhere from $299 to $5,000 or more,
depending on your budget and computing needs. You may start with a
base model, but extras such as a larger monitor or higher-end graphics
card can soon add hundreds to the base price.
You can shop in a retail store for a computer or shop online using a
friend’s computer (and perhaps get his or her help if you’re brand new
to using a computer). Consider researching different models and
prices online and using that information to negotiate your purchase in
the store if you prefer shopping at the mall. Be aware, however, that
most retail stores have a small selection compared to all you can find
online on a Web site such as Dell.com.
Buying a computer can be confusing, but here are some guidelines to
help you find a computer at the price that’s right for you:
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Determine how often you will use your computer. If
you’ll be working on it eight hours a day running a
home business, you will need a better quality com-
puter to withstand the use. If you turn on the com-
puter once or twice a week, it doesn’t have to be the
priciest model in the shop.
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Consider the features that you need. Do you want
(or have room for) a 20-inch monitor? Do you
need the computer to run very fast and run several
programs at once, or do you need to store tons of