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Advice on setting up

Whilst helping someone to get online for the first time can be easy, answering their questions about buying a computer and broadband can be a little more challenging!

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Carol Klein talks about her experience of buying a computer.

As their confidence grows they may start to ask for advice and help with buying their first computer. They'll have lots of questions - What do I need? How much do I need to spend? Where do I buy a computer?


The first thing to do is to help identify their needs

These are the key questions that will help a person decide just what sort of computer they want and how much it will cost:

  • What does your beginner want to do with the computer? Eg. stay in touch with friends and family, search the internet etc..
  • Does the person want to play games, watch films, upload and download photos, music and videos? If so, a bigger memory and screen size should be considered.
  • Where do they want to use the computer? If it's at home then a desktop model might be suitable. Or, if you want a more portable, light computer, then a laptop will be best.

There are some very useful articles about buying computers and broadband available from BBC WebWise.

Once the computer is set up, find out how to keep safe online.

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Guides to print

Download the First Click Handbook for tips and advice on helping someone get online.

Download our step-by-step Beginner's Guide to using computers and the internet.

Help someone find a local beginner's computer course:

08000 150 950

Calls are free from most landlines. Some networks and mobile operators will charge for these calls.

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