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Who knew how simple computers could be?

What can you do with your new PC? The sky's the limit! Absolute Beginner's Guide to Computer Basics will show you how to set up and configure your PC, including how to connect to the Internet. Then you'll learn how to fix your digital photos, create digital scrapbooks, download digital music to your iPod, burn your own custom CDs, watch DVD movies, write letters and memos, balance your checkbook, and create show-stopping presentations. And if you need more computing horsepower, you'll even learn how to upgrade your PC and add new peripherals. It's all easy, thanks to Michael Miller's step-by-step instructions and helpful advice!

Now updated for both Windows Vista™ and Windows® XP, Absolute Beginner's Guide to Computer Basics will have you using your new PC in no time! Here's a preview of

what you'll find inside:

Learn how to set up and configure your new computer, and install new computer hardware and software

Get the scoop on how to work with Microsoft Windows XP or Windows Vista, and how to personalize it just for you

Learn how to use the most popular computer programs—including Microsoft® Word, Microsoft® Works, Microsoft® Money, and Quicken

Connect to the Internet for web surfing, email, instant messaging, blogging, and podcasts—and create your own MySpace page

Become a digital media pro—learn to work with digital cameras and photos, download and listen to digital music, and burn your own CDs and DVDs

Find out how to protect your PC from spam, viruses, spyware, and computer attacks

Learn how to set up a wireless home network and share your Internet connection with multiple PCs

Introduction

I Getting Started
1 Understanding Desktop PCs

2 Understanding Notebook PCs
3 Setting Up Your New Computer System

II Using Windows

4 Getting to Know Windows Vista

5 Using Windows XP on Older Computers
6 Personalizing Windows

7 Working with Files, Folders, and Disks
III Upgrading and Maintaining Your System

8 Adding New Hardware and Devices to Your System

9 Setting Up a Home Network

10 Performing Routine Maintenance

11 Dealing with Common Problems

12 Protecting Your PC from Viruses, Spam, and Other Online

IV Using Computer Software

13 Installing New Software

14 The Suite Spot: Working with Microsoft Works and Microsoft
15 Letters, Memos, and More: Working with Microsoft Word

16 Crunching Numbers: Working with Microsoft Excel

17 Presenting Yourself: Working with Microsoft PowerPoint

18 Banking and Beyond: Working with Microsoft Money and Quicken

19 Connecting to the Internet—At Home and on the Road
V Using the Internet

20 Sending and Receiving Email

21 Surfing the Web with Internet Explorer

22 Searching the Web

23 Shopping Online

...read more