It can be very confusing if you are setting out to buy a new desktop computer without help. Most people only buy a computer when their current one breaks down or is really outdated. This article simplifies the purchasing process.

Be sure that you have installed anti virus protection on your computer. These programs protect your system from malicious attacks. These viruses can really slow down your desktop, and they put you in jeopardy of sharing private information. There are several programs available that can scan and repair your computer regularly.

Is your computer slow? Here’s a quick fix! You will be able to find this information in the start menu. Check out what is starting on boot. Eliminate any programs that are not used regularly from automatically running at boot up. You should see a difference with your computer running more quickly afterward.

Take out a tape measure and determine how much room you have for your new computer. It’s a good idea to measure the space, horizontal and vertical that you have available for your desktop computer and compare it against the dimensions of the computer that you’d like to purchase. Some will be small, others will require a lot of space. Understand how much room you have before deciding.

Look at technology sites for computer reviews to get a good idea on what you should buy. This will give you a much better idea of what computer fits your needs.

You should get a warranty when you buy your computer. This is important in case the computer locks up or becomes unusable. Typically, you will be able to return to the store where you purchased it and get repairs made or your computer replaced.

Pc Programs

If you are considering a Mac, but want to use your PC programs or applications, consider buying Parallels for Mac. This software allows you to run an instance of a PC operating system live on your Mac. That way, any PC programs you have can be run on a Mac! It will be necessary for you to buy the operating system.

Whenever you are in the market for a desktop computer, be sure that the software that accompanies your choice is actually legal. There should be a CD and key that comes with every package.

Remember the peripherals as you shop for your next computer. You are going to still need a mouse, keyboard, speakers and monitor at least. You may find a printer useful and you will most likely need an Internet modem. Think about the other hardware that may be of need to you.

Don’t expect an original warranty with the purchase of a used computer. Not many manufacturers are willing to transfer their warranty from one person to another. When considering a used computer, do not depend on the warranty being of any value.

Be price-smart when purchasing a computer. Computers can be expensive. You should understand what you need your computer to do. Make sure you know what hardware is included. The computer has to have both performance and affordability.

In the past, it was common to get a computer, printer and a monitor all in one package. This type of deal is typically not the best. These days, your flat screen TV may do just as well as your monitor, and they may even be a better buy than a typical computer monitor. If you already own a keyboard and mouse, they work, too.

In order to get the best computer deal, it pays to read up on all the various reviews. You shouldn’t buy computers only due to price. Frequently, very cheap computers have issues.

There are two different types of hard drives, and then the choices branch out from those two options. Most people have an HDD hard drive in their systems, but there is a newer type called the SSD. An SSD operates at a greater number of revolutions each minute, costs more and holds a smaller amount of data.

If you’re buying a used computer, know that most manufacturers won’t allow a transfer of the warranty. You will have to fix the computer if something happens. See if this looks like a good idea before buying it.

Before doing anything, think about what your computer will be used for. Make a list of the things you do with your computer, as well as what you’d like to learn to do. Make the list as comprehensive as possible.

Though most desktops do have integrated WiFi, be certain your machine has the latest technology. If you notice the desktop you are looking at only has B and G WiFi, then you’ll miss out on the high-speed N signals. This will make your web browsing much easier.

Operating System

Do you know what operating system you want? It’s not a simple question. You may love Windows 7, but that doesn’t mean Windows 8 is the great fit for you. Make sure you buy a desktop that has the operating system you want and are familiar with.

If your computer takes too long to start, look for computers with SSD drives. Computers boot up really fast when they have their software and operating system installed on a solid state hard disk. You will need a solid data drive though for backup purposes.

There are some high-end desktops that have multiple video cards. Usually the cards come in pairs in setups like Crossfire or SLI. These cards are great for gaming machines, but for the typical user it probably isn’t necessary to get more than one video card.

While you may not know exactly which computer to buy yet, you know how to figure it out. Most employees who work in the desktop computer section of your local electronics store are specially trained to understand how each system works. I wish you the best of luck!