I thought it would be quite handy to have a thread to ask advice about buying/fixing/improving computers.
Feel free to add tips or answer questions.
Also, this isn't a place for gloating Mac users to say "Get a mac"
I'll start it off with a few tips for the technophobes out there.
Buying...
Don't just go to PC World and let a spotty oik pressure you into buying a piece of crap that's overpriced.
Cheap Laptops, Tablet PC, and Cheap LED TVs | Ebuyer.com is the best mainstream website.
Also, dell have a good selection on there refurbished outlet at cheaper prices. Dell Outlet - Refurbished Laptops, Desktops & Servers | Dell UK
Good deals can be had on amazon aswell. Amazon.co.uk PCs & Laptops: Tablets, Desktops, Notebooks, Accessories and more
If you are confused by the jargon, to get you on the right track...
The processor; should be at least an intel i3 (i5 and i7 if possible but they a more expensive) to run modern bit of software.
RAM (memory); Minimum 4gb to handle demands of modern software.
Hard drive; Up to you really but even most budget laptops come with 320gb which is more than enough for thousands of pictures, songs and software.
T'internet...
Firstly, if you are using Internet Explorer as it came with your computer, change it. The two best internet browsers are Firefox & Chrome in my opinion. They are faster, more secure and with better add-ons.
Add-ons (programs that bolt onto the internet browser)
These are for firefox, other browsers have similar products.
Ad-block plus - This get's rid of annoying adverts and pop ups, for instance at the start of videos on youtube and 4od, or on facebook.
https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/adblock-plus/
Do Not Track Me - Alot of websites (inc facebook) track you across all the websites you visit. To block any attempts to track you, download this add on.
https://addons.mozilla.org/en-us/firefox/addon/donottrackplus/
Spellchecker - This add on comes built in with new versions of Firefox. Some other browsers might need a separate download. It puts a squiggly red line under words that are spelled incorrectly and with a right click shows the correct spelling. Much like a word document (just look out for american spellcheckers that like to put a Z in everything )
You can create one-click bookmark/favourite buttons at the top of your browser for sites that you use alot. Here is a guide to get you started.
Bookmarks Toolbar - Display your favorite websites at the top of the Firefox window | Firefox Help
Anti Virus
Many PC's and Laptops come with a free McAfee or Norton anti virus - They are ok, but not even close to the best.
Ones to consider are Eset NOD32, AVG, Kapersky and Bulldog.