help stuf

First of all, I want to congratulate those who are new to computing and the internet. Welcome to a frustrating and exciting world of knowledge, information and data memories. As I sat down to write this blog, I realized how much I take for granted. I have been involved in the computer scene and the internet world for years. I was gettting rid of some old books last week and I chuckled as I began to pack them up. I noticed one old book in the box, my first original DOS (one of the first operating systems for a desktop computer) manual. Im not sure which version, but the book was dated 1987. It blew me away how time has flown by, and just how many years I have been using a computer. Almost twenty years and I still feel uninformed at times. This is how it will be for you in no time. Whether you're going to be a casual surfer, chatter, researcher, trader, an ebay seller or a die-hard gamer, the 'net will kill your boredom and possibly make you money.
One of the first things to learn while dealing with your computer and the World Wide Web is how to get help in times of trouble or general curiosity. Whether you will be applying updates to your software, fixing your computer, or selling on ebay, you will need help at some point. As a new person to the computer life, remember that there is help in many areas. Now I will leave you with some pointers. Thanks for reading. Hopefully, this will assist you in finding specific help for your situation.

1) Read up on acronyms used in chatting. You will need this 'language'. A crash course on short form is essential for emailing, internet chat, and the cyber world.

2) READ READ READ... Read your manuals. Also be sure to keep your manuals! Sometimes you miss things you'll need later. For example, how to use a microphone with your sound card. Read websites on your problems, concerns or areas of interest. Go to google and type in the key words for your question. This may sound like common sense, but many times you will realize you could have found your answers on the 'net. If you do not have access to the 'net, go to a library, 'net cafe, friend, or neighbour.

3) Go to reputable sites for your information. Make sure the author is recognized for his writing and authority on the subject you are researching. Many sites are out there which may have incorrect information. If you are unsure, ask others.

4) Ask a friend. Call a computer friend. Do not bother them a lot, but if you are really stuck, they won't mind.

5) Call for support if you have a serious technical problem. Sometimes it is worth the money to pay for someone to come to your house or call to get support. Eighty dollars spent now could save your business computer from a lot of damage, compromise, and greater expense later.

6) Go to chat rooms. There is free help in computer rooms.

7) Use the help section in your software programs. For example: Windows XP, Photoshop, Roxio and Nero.

8) Make sure you understand what you are getting into before modifying your computer. For example, you decide to edit your registry in XP. Make sure before you try something that you back up all information. (Of course, you know you should always back up all information, at all times, right?)

9) Its good to get help from the television or magazines to brush up on terminology, tips, and sound advice.

10) Remember that no matter what, you are in control of your computer. Don't be afraid of it. As long as everything is backed up, you can do anything, and still get it back to the way it used to be.

11) We hope you'll come here and read our little site, and of course, any questions you may have, please post them!