Basics: Computer Use

Do you every think "how do I use this thing?" when you get something new? Well, if you said that to a computer, this article will help. Computers are machines that "compute"; that's why their called "computers." Computers have hardware and software. Hardware is the physical structure of your computer (ex: hard drive). Software is the stored memory on your computer, usually applications (ex:Microsoft Word). 

Okay, now onto Operating Systems. Operating systems are what make up your hard drive, and usually determine the type of software is on your computer (ex: Microsoft/Mac). The operating system's job is to run multiple tests to make sure everything is working correctly. It's job is also to check for any new hardware needed to be installed on your computer and to actually start the operating system (boot the system). It usually starts and manages hardware and software programs, like the background, or computer start up applications (programs that start up when you turn on your computer and log in).

Now, we need to learn how to keep our computer well kelp and safe. You can physically clean the computer with wipes and dusters, but make sure you don't wipe the monitor (display screen). This will ruin it. If you spill any liquids on your computer/keyboard, turn off your computer and unplug it as quick as you can. Then turn it upside down to allow the liquid to drain. If it's sticky, rinse it with water to get it out. Do this at your own risk. If the water goes into your computer, you risk breaking it. If you suspect yourself that you WILL accidentally still something on your computer, buy a computer that has the keyboard liquid proof. You do not want to risk breaking your computer. You also want to keep your computer safe from dangers of the internet (malware, spyware, adware). These threats are programs that are used to cause computer users pain, frustration, and are used to steal personal information and money from the computer's user. You should always backup your files, just in case your computer has to reformat, or is attacked by viruses, trojans, etc. also, it is recommended for you to get anti-virus software to protect yourself from these dangers.

Every person wants to keep their computer at it's top shape, so you should always follow these tips.

• Never turn off your computer when it is booting up. This may corrupt the computer, so the next time you turn on your computer, it will freeze up or have problems booting up. You should hold Ctrl+Alt+Delete twice to restart your computer manually to make sure you don't loses any hardware files. For Mac Users! Go to the Mac's menu and press force quit. Also, you can press Command+Option+Esc. Then, you can end the program/application that is freezing up your computer. All files not saved will be lost. Please do this at your own risk. For Lunix Users! Press Ctrl+Alt+Backspace to restart. Closes all programs.

• If your area has common power outages, it is recommended for you to get a uninterrupted power supply. This is so that if the power goes out, you can turn off your computer without the computer's files being corrupted because of the sudden power failure.

• Always keep at least 100 MB of memory free on your computer to make should it don't lag (slow down/have a hard time keeping up with real time input) too much. Without enough memory, your computer will go extremely, or at least somewhat, slow.

Just follow these tips to make sure your computer is at it's top shape.