PCs for Dummies

by Dan Gookin

Explaining the fundamentals of personal computing to those who would rather read words than look at pictures, PCs for Dummies tells you everything you need to know in order to use an IBM-compatible PC running Windows 98. Gookin's prose is technically astute & fun. This isn't the book for you if you're looking thru a computer catalog & wondering what all the jargon means (Buying a Computer for Dummies covers that). Rather, this book will help you when you've gotten the machine into your home & need to know what to do next. Starting with the process of unpacking the box & plugging in the cables, this book shows you what to do with the new machine. After assembly is out of the way, Gookin shows how to get around in Windows 98 (& Windows 95, which is almost identical). He explains concepts like files, directories, applications & explains the exact procedures involved in common tasks like adjusting screen resolution. Once you've heard all about the basics, Gookin goes on to explain modem configuration, printer problems, productivity software & Internet use.--David Wall (edited)

Genres: Reference, Nonfiction, Computers, Technology, Computer Science

432 pages, Paperback

First published July 28, 1992

Reviews

[Erik Graff · Rating 3 out of 5]

Upon the loss of my academic career I gave some time to studying PCs and Windows operating systems to the point that I was able to assemble a working machine from parts. Not realizing how prices would continue to fall and how quickly technologies would become obsolescent, I thought I might make a new career out of this. As it was, I hadn't the heart to charge for most of my meagre services and eventually dropped the idea, finally throwing out a truckload of PC parts only two years ago.

In the course of this little project, this was one of the books I read.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I will probably be reading this book for the rest of my life.

[Estella Boger · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mr. Gookin includes a lot of good information in this book. Although it deals mainly with Windows 10 and PC's, much of it also applies to Windows 11 and laptops. I already knew much of it, I did learn a number of things. He writes clearly, avoids technical jargon, and is funny into the bargain.

[Kevinhoytjr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent

[Jerry Bullard · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can't help but think the authors had me in mind for the title. When I got my first computer in 1994 and unpacked it at home I thought, "What the heck have I done; I don't know anything about computers?" Anyway, over the years, the Dummies series has been a tremendous help...from computers, to operating systems, to digital audio and video, and home networking to name just a few, the Dummies series has given me what I need to know in a quick, entertaining way. I highly recommend this series.

[Jenny · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was VERY basic. Not very helpful for my situation, but a great beginner's guide.

[Brad Little · Rating 1 out of 5]

if you know nothing,start here.

[Mo · Rating 2 out of 5]

Quick and easy overview on PC inner guts. Primer for more detailed stuff..

[Superpc · Rating 5 out of 5]

Had alot of info about computers! GoodRead!