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Introduction to Basic Computer Skills
by Timothy Kearns
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Overview
Computers have changed the way most people live their lives. It's important that you know how you can use them. Since you're here at this web page, you already have the most basic skills. Three skills you'll need to get the most out of your computer and keep it working well are installing programs, protecting your computer from viruses, and protecting your computer from spyware.
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Install Programs From a CD
Know exactly what the program is supposed to do before you install it. Installing programs is straightforward. If the program came on a CD, then put the CD in the CD drive. After a few seconds, a dialog box will appear asking you what you want to do. One of the options will be to install the program. Click that. As the program installs, it may ask you where on your hard drive you want the program stored. Just accept what it suggests. Then a legal agreement will appear outlining the terms under which you can use the program. It is legally binding, so read it, and click accept. Once the program has installed, the computer will usually open up the folder where the program is. Make a note of this so you can find it easily again.
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Install Programs Downloaded from the Internet
If you download a program from the Internet, note where on your hard drive you downloaded it to, and double-click on that file. Follow the same steps for installing from a CD above. But, as with everything on the Internet, be careful to download programs only from sites you trust.
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Protect Your Computer from Viruses
Before you connect to the Internet, make sure your computer has antivirus software. Viruses can physically harm your computer or steal information from you. You can pay for both types of protection, but you can also get them readily for free. For anti-virus software, try AVG Free. Download it and install the software as above. It will scan your system and remove any virus you have, as well as put up a shield to prevent further infection. (See References, AVG Free, and Resources, Antivirus - Reviews and Price Comparisons from PC Magazine.)
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Protect Your Computer from Spyware
Spyware are programs put on your computer to monitor your activity online secretly, especially in order to bring up advertisements directly on your computer. For spyware protection, download Windows Defender, put out by Microsoft. Microsoft's website will ask you to verify your copy of Windows, so just follow those instructions. Once you've downloaded and installed it, monitor the program's activities by clicking on the mini icon on the bottom right of your screen, near the system clock. Sometimes, the program will block your access to sites on the Internet that it thinks are dangerous. When that happens, use good judgment about visiting the site. Remember that spyware programs are like GPS maps--they don't always have the latest information. (See References, Microsoft - Windows Defender, and Resources, Anti-Spyware Software Reviews.)
