10 ways to spice up your new PC
By Eugene Oh
If you were one of the lucky recipients of a new PC this past holiday season, you're probably anxious to get the most out of it in the new year. With a whole new world of possibilities before you, finding the right tools can be intimidating.
There are endless ways to enhance your PC experience. From downloading the latest instant messaging program to investing in the right productivity software, it's time to get the most out of your new computer. Below are ten tips to spice up your new PC.
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1. Get the latest version of Windows Live Messenger
Instant messaging (IM) is a popular way to chat online with friends, family, and coworkers. Avoid being left in the dust by downloading the latest version of Windows Live Messenger, Microsoft's free instant messaging program. Once you install Windows Live Messenger you can chat online through text, voice, or even video conversation.
Experience a whole new world of communication by sharing photos, exchanging files, and chatting with your long-distance relatives online.
2. Help protect yourself with Microsoft Windows Defender
Are pop-up ads driving you crazy? In addition to being annoying, they may also be collecting personal information or even changing the configuration of your computer without permission. Windows Defender helps protect you from potentially unwanted software. It guards over 50 ways that spyware can enter your PC. And best of all, it's free for download.
3. Grab a copy of Microsoft Works
Microsoft Works gives you the basic home productivity tools you need to help make your everyday tasks easier. Create letters, resumes and greeting cards using templates, clip art and a built-in dictionary. Or, track your budget, plan home improvements, and keep household records — in one place.
4. Obtain the latest antivirus software
A computer virus can spell trouble. Help protect the data and applications on your computer by investing in antivirus software and keeping your antivirus software current. Antivirus software is available from a variety of companies, including Symantec, McAfee, and BullGuard.
5. Download the latest updates from Microsoft Update
Microsoft Update addresses everything from software issues in Microsoft Office, to protection against known security threats and upgrades for the latest Windows components such as Windows Media Player and Internet Explorer. Make sure you turn on Automatic Updates so Windows can deliver high-priority updates to your computer as they become available. You can then decide when and how updates are installed.
6. Get a better mouse
The mouse that came with your computer may not be the one that is right for you. If you find it is difficult to use or unresponsive, Microsoft Hardware offers several different mouse devices as well as other devices with unique ergonomics and features. A new wireless mouse, for example, may make it easier to navigate Web pages and documents because you won't have to worry about tangled wires.
The Microsoft Wireless Laser Mouse 6000 gives you precision, responsiveness, and smoother tracking without the tangled wires.
7. Download PowerToys or other add-ons for Windows
You can add fun and functionality to the Windows experience with several tools. Search the Windows download page to find additional programs to enhance your computer experience. For example, some PowerToys you can download include a Power Calculator that allows you to graph and evaluate functions, a convenient Image Resizer to resize photos in a snap, and a Slide Show Wizard that helps you create an HTML slide show of your digital pictures for a Web site.
8. Get in the game with a new controller
PC gaming is a great way to keep the whole family entertained. Be sure to purchase a great controller, such as the Xbox 360 Controller for Windows, which delivers a consistent and universal gaming experience across both Microsoft Windows XP and the new Xbox 360 system. Features such as vibration feedback for riveting game play (available in supported games) and compact ergonomics for comfort and overall precision will provide you with the ultimate game experience.
9. Download Windows Live Toolbar
If you've ever been frustrated managing all those open Internet Explorer windows or closing annoying pop-up ads, then the Windows Live Toolbar is the perfect solution. The Windows Live Toolbar provides great tools, including a pop-up blocker and dedicated toolbars for Internet Explorer, Windows Explorer, Outlook, and your desktop. It is designed to change the way you search your PC and the Web by providing quick results and convenience within your workspace.
10. Rip your music to your computer
You can use Windows Media Player 11 to rip (copy) your favorite songs from your CDs to your computer. After you've copied all of your CDs, you can transfer your music to a portable music player, or even build a custom play list of your favorite songs. You won't have to go through the hassle shuffling through several CDs to play them. Ripping your CDs gives you the flexibility to enjoy your tunes your way.
