There is a lot that can be done with a computer, and if you are just getting started, it can seem quite daunting. Fortunately, computers have gotten easier over time, and you can get them up and running in a matter of minutes. From setting up your new computer to browsing the Internet safely and installing your favorite programs, you can learn all of it if you watch the guides below to get started using your computer like a pro.
Steps
Method 1 of 5: Getting Started
Step 1. Set up your computer
If you are setting up a new desktop computer, there are several steps you will need to go through before you can start using it. After finding a place near the table to put the system unit, you will need to connect a monitor, keyboard and mouse, and also connect the system unit to a power source.
- These are the only things you need to connect to your computer to use it. You can add more peripherals and accessories later.
- If you are using a new laptop, it will be much easier to set it up. Plug your laptop into a power source to make sure it's charging, then turn it on to get started.
Step 2. Create a user account
If this is your first time using your computer, you will probably be prompted to create a user account when you turn it on. This account will contain all of your documents, photos, uploaded files, and any other files you create.
- If your computer is in a public place, you must create a strong password to protect your personal information. This is highly recommended even if your computer is a home computer.
- This guide will show you how to create a new user account in Windows 7
- This guide will show you how to create a new user account in Windows 8
- This guide will show you how to create a new user account in OS
Step 3. Get to know your desktop
The desktop is the main work area of your computer, and will probably be the most visited area of your computer. Your desktop will appear every time you log into your account, and it contains icons and links to the most frequently used programs and files. The desktop will look and function differently depending on which operating system you are using.
- Windows operating systems (except Windows 8) are characterized by a Start menu in the lower left corner of the desktop. The Start menu allows you to quickly access installed programs and settings.
- Windows 8 has replaced the Start menu with a Start screen. It functions the same way, but is fundamentally different in how information is displayed.
- OS X allows you to use multiple desktops to keep information organized and under control. Read this guide for details on how to use multiple desktops.
Step 4. Find out the basic information about the mouse and keyboard
The mouse and keyboard are your primary means of interacting with your computer. Take some time to familiarize yourself with how they work and how you can interact with your operating system and programs.
- Learn how to use your mouse to navigate. The mouse allows you to define navigation and control, and is essential for a wide range of activities. Learning how to use your mouse to move on makes you a more advanced computer user.
- Practice using some keyboard shortcuts to improve your workflow. Keyboard shortcuts are keyboard shortcuts that perform functions in the program or operating system that you are using. For example, in most programs that allow you to save files, pressing Ctrl + S (⌘ Cmd + S on Mac) will automatically save the current file.
Step 5. Launch some of the preinstalled apps
Even if you set up your computer yourself, there will be some preinstalled applications and utilities that you can use without having to install anything extra. If you are using Windows, click the Start menu and browse your available programs. If you're using a Mac, check your Dock and Applications folder.
Step 6. Install your first program
Installing software is a very common task on a computer, no matter what computer you are using. The process is usually very straightforward, as most installers provide clear instructions for each step.
- Installing Microsoft Office is a good place to start if you are using a Windows computer. Having access to word processors is invaluable, and one of the main goals of many people's computers. Many Windows computers come with a trial version of Office already installed.
- Installing software on a Mac is slightly different from installing on a Windows PC. This is mainly due to the basic structure of the Mac operating system. Many Mac users find the process of installing and managing programs much easier on OS X than on Windows.
Method 2 of 5: Learning Basic Computer Commands
Step 1. Select files and text
You can use your mouse or keyboard shortcuts to select files on your computer and text in documents and on the site. Click and drag over the text you want to select, or press Ctrl + A (PC) or ⌘ Cmd + A (Mac) to select everything in the current location. Once you've selected files or text, there are several different actions you can take.
Step 2. Copy and paste
Copying and pasting is one of the most common actions performed when selecting text or files. "Copying" a file or text - its original remains intact, creating a copy on the computer's clipboard. You can then "Paste" the file or text elsewhere.
- For PC: copy by pressing Ctrl + C and paste by pressing Ctrl + V. You can also copy and paste by right-clicking on the selected object with the mouse and choosing the appropriate option from the menu.
- For Mac: copy by pressing ⌘ Cmd + C and paste by pressing ⌘ Cmd + V. You can also copy and paste by right-clicking on the selected object with your mouse and choosing the appropriate option from the menu.
Step 3. Save and open files
Many programs (such as word processors, photo editors, and more) will allow you to create and save documents and files. When working on a computer, it makes sense to save information frequently. You never know when power can go out, costing you hours of unsaved work. Get in the habit of saving often, and if you are making important changes to the file, it might be wise to create a new copy. You can quickly save your work in most programs that allow you to save by pressing Ctrl + S (PC) or ⌘ Cmd + S (Mac).
If you have a lot of important files on your computer, consider setting up a backup system. This will ensure that you have at least one extra copy of all important files if something happens to your computer. Windows and Mac OS X both have backup systems built into the operating system
Step 4. Searching and sorting files
As you use your computer more and more, your personal collection of documents, media, and files can get a little out of control. Take some time and organize your personal folders. You can create new folders to help create a directory of information that is easy to access.
Method 3 of 5: Connecting to the Internet
Step 1. Set up the connection
To connect to the Internet, your computer must have an Internet connection. This could be in the form of a wireless network, or you might need to connect your computer directly to your network router or modem. It all depends on how the network at your location is configured and the capabilities of your computer.
- Connect your computer to a wireless (Wi-Fi) network. If your home, office, or school has a wireless network, you can use your computer to connect to it. Most laptops can connect to a wireless network without the hassle, while some desktop PCs need to have a wireless network card installed.
- The wired network connection can be faster and more stable. If your computer is physically close to an Internet access point (router or modem), you may want to consider using an Ethernet cable to connect your computer to the network. This is a much more "viable" method, as they tend to be stationary. A wired connection will not experience interference like a wireless network can, and the transmission speed is much higher.
Step 2. Open your web browser
A web browser is a program that allows you to browse the web, watch online videos, download files, and do essentially anything else related to the Internet. All computers come with a default browser (Internet Explorer on Windows, Safari on Mac, and Firefox on Linux), but there are several popular alternatives.
- Google Chrome is one of the most popular alternative browsers available, and allows you to connect and sync with your Google account. Chrome is available for free from Google.
- Firefox is another very popular free browser. It is highly customizable and contains many powerful security options.
Step 3. Install antivirus
Before exploring the Internet, it would be wise to install an anti-virus program. These programs protect your computer from viruses and other malicious software, and are practically required when connecting to the Internet. Most computers come with trial antivirus software installed, but there are many powerful free alternatives.
Step 4. Browse the Internet safely
There are a lot of bad things on the Internet, so be sure to keep yourself safe while browsing. This means avoiding giving out personal information, downloading only from trusted sources, and staying away from viruses, fraud and other illegal and dangerous activities.
Step 5. Send your email
Sending an email is one of the most common forms of communication these days, and knowing how to send an email is now an integral part of owning a computer. You can create a free email account using many different services, and you can also compose an email within minutes.
Step 6. Download the file
The internet is full of different types of files that you can download to your computer. Popular file types include images, music, and programs. There are thousands of download locations and many different ways to do it.
Method 4 of 5: Improving functionality
Step 1. Install the printer
If you're setting up a home office or planning to use a computer for school, you'll likely need to type sooner or later. Installing a printer in modern computers is incredibly easy; just connect the printer via USB to one of the available USB ports on your computer. The operating system will do the rest.
Step 2. Set up your home network
Networks allow multiple computers to communicate with each other and share a single Internet connection. Connecting all computers and devices can give you quick access to files from different devices, allowing anyone on the network to print to a shared printer, play games together, and more. Network setup requires a router or network switch. This is a piece of equipment to which all devices will connect, either via Ethernet or wirelessly.
Step 3. Install your webcam or microphone
The webcam allows you to video chat with friends and family members around the world through programs like Skype and Google +. Like most other computer peripherals, webcams tend to install themselves as soon as you plug them in. Most webcams connect via USB, although many laptops have a built-in webcam.
Step 4. Add speakers
While virtually all laptop computers have built-in speakers, desktop computers usually need external speakers or headphones in order to hear sound. Most computers have built-in speaker connectors that can be accessed from the back of the system unit. Computer speakers are usually color coded, so just match the colored speaker plugs to the corresponding port.
Step 5. Connect your computer to the TV
If your computer is in close proximity to a TV, or you have a laptop that you can set up nearby, you can turn your computer into a home theater by displaying an image on the TV screen. With the right cables, you can play sound through your TV or home theater speakers.
- Connect your Mac to your TV.
- Connect laptop to TV.
- Connect your desktop PC to your TV.
Method 5 of 5: Troubleshoot your computer
Step 1. Learn basic troubleshooting tips
Like all electronics, your computer will occasionally run into problems. Knowing some basic troubleshooting tips can help you save a lot of time and possibly money. You don't have to be an expert, but knowing what to try first can be very helpful.
- The first thing you should try when faced with a problem is restarting your computer. Believe it or not, it will solve a large number of questions you have with a program or feature.
- If you're having connectivity issues while browsing the Internet, resetting your connection might fix your problem.
Step 2. Learn how to recognize a virus
Viruses are destructive and aggressive files that can pose a serious threat to your information and files. Viruses can slow down your computer to "snail speed", or lead to the loss of everything you have saved. Most viruses can be avoided by doing smart online behavior.
In addition to viruses, adware and spyware can cause serious problems for your computer and your security. They are often installed along with other programs and it can be very difficult to get rid of them
Step 3. Remove the "nasty" programs
As you add more and more programs to your computer, you will find that some of them you use more than others. If you have old programs installed that you no longer use, they take up space on your computer that can be used for other purposes. Some programs can run in the background as well, even when you are not using them, which can significantly affect the performance of your computer. Regularly uninstalling programs you no longer use is a good way to keep your computer "healthy".
- Uninstall programs on Mac.
- Uninstall programs in Windows.
Step 4. Reinstall the operating system, if necessary
Sometimes, in order to fix a problem, reinstalling the operating system may be the only solution. Installing an operating system is less complicated than it sounds and can provide big performance gains. What makes most people postpone reinstalling is the thought of keeping all their old files and reinstalling programs. If you've already backed up your files regularly, the first complaint is not a problem. When it comes to reinstalling programs, you may find that you are using a lot fewer programs than you thought you were using.
- Reinstall Windows 7.
- Reinstall Windows 8.
- Reinstall OS X.
- Reinstall Linux.
Step 5. Clean up any dust to keep your computer running well
Heat is the computer's worst enemy, and as it collects dust, it will start to accumulate more heat. Your computer can perform well if you regularly clean the inside of the case with compressed air and a vacuum cleaner. Try cleaning your computer at least twice a year, more if you have pets or smoke.
Step 6. Replace or upgrade hardware
Sometimes your equipment can fail, or simply won't perform the tasks that are required. In such cases, upgrading your computer can save you from having to buy a new computer. Most desktops can be upgraded to a large extent, allowing new drives and more memory to be installed, as well as improved video processing and power.