Absolute Beginner's Guide to Computer Basics

by Michael Miller

Everything casual users need to know to get the most out of their new Windows 7 PCs, software, and the Internet The best-selling beginner's guide, now completely updated for Windows 7 and today's most popular Internet tools - including Facebook, craigslist, Twitter, and Wikipedia Easy step-by-step instructions cover setting up a new PC, getting online, working with digital media, using productivity tools, and much more By the world's #1 author of beginning technology books, Michael Miller This year, you may be one of the millions of casual computer users that will buy a new Windows 7 notebook or desktop PC. You'll want to know how to find your way around, get comfortable, and get the job done - without jargon, complexity, or hassle. There's a book for you: Michael Miller's Absolute Beginner's Guide to Computer Basics, Windows 7 Edition. It's the one book that covers everything today's beginners and near-beginners need to know: not just about Windows, but also about software, hardware, and the Internet. Through 90+ books, author Michael Miller has established an unparalleled track record in explaining complicated concepts simply and clearly, and empowering beginners. Now, he's thoroughly updated his best-selling Absolute Beginner's Guide to Computer Basics to cover today's user experience - with Windows 7, Internet Explorer 8, and today's hottest online tools, from craigslist and Facebook to Twitter, Wikipedia, and Google Docs. Miller offers step-by-step instructions and friendly, practical advice for making the most of Windows 7's improvements, including the new taskbar, Action Center, and Aero Snap. He walks through setting up a new computer; connecting to the Internet; working with digital media; burning custom CDs; watching DVD movies; using Microsoft Office and other popular software; managing money online; setting up home networks; keeping PCs running reliably; and protecting them from spam, viruses, and spyware. This is the one indispensable book for today's PC novice.

Genres: Computers

452 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 28, 2002

Reviews

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A well rounded, easy to understand resource. Offers the beginner basic information about popular topics in computers today, including security, popular software, and social media. With lots of lists of places to get started on making tech and online choices, a definate ice breaker for those overwhelmed with today’s technology or just want to keep tabs on what’s out there.

[Gopal Meghwal]

Really it is great book I ever read.

[Tami · Rating 5 out of 5]

I remember how intimidating it was when I got my first computer. At the time, my husband regularly used a computer at work and thought that I should learn. Of course, I didn’t even know how to turn on the thing let alone make it do something worthwhile.

Looking back, I wish I would have had a resource like Absolute Beginner’s Guide to Computer Basics. The book starts right from the start. Right off, the book tells the reader that they aren’t likely to damage the computer by pressing the wrong button. It also explains all the components of a computer and then takes the reader step by step through what the computer can do. Since the book is based on Windows 7 technology, the new computer owner can simply unpack the parts and begin setting up. By the end of the book, the reader will pretty much be caught up on the basics.

Absolute Beginner’s Guide to Computer Basics is good for those new to computing. It provides the basics and does so in an easy to understand way. However, additional resources may need to be consulted if troubleshooting information is required.

[Ted Kopp · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I took over teaching the Basic Computer course at Henrico County Adult Education (Richmond, VA area) in September 2010, this was the textbook. I used this book for the Fall semester, then decided to keep it as the text for this class. I've been using it ever since - when they upgrade to a version of Windows beyond 7, I will consider using a more recent edition of this book (my students have seemed to like it in the nearly five years I have used this book).

[Lisa Bryner · Rating 5 out of 5]

This author can explain in everyday English. I learned quite a few things about computer basics.