While traveling around New Zealand in March, I found myself fixing and
upgrading a number of people’s PC’s.  Since they had problems common to
most users all over the world, I’m going to summarize the information
in this post.  I’ll make special notes about why certain
special-interest groups don’t publicize specific bits of information,
as indicated by the conspiracy theory nut:

I’m assuming you already own a PC and want to make it run better.  A
Mac is prettier and easier to use for computer novices, especially for
multimedia, but is also a lot more expensive for anything beyond a
bare-bones machine.

1) Memory

The #1 factor in how fast your PC runs is not the processor speed; it’s
the memory.  Now I’m talking about “fast” for everyday applications
like switching between email, web browsing, and basic Microsoft
Office.  Here’s my recommended memory chart.

You can save a lot of money by installing your own memory.  PC
Manufacturers make money by upcharging you on memory that brings you to
the “Fast” and “Optimal” levels, the same way movie theaters make money
by charging you $4 for a Coke.  So buy a low-memory PC, order more
memory off the web, and install it yourself.

2) Browser

Go to www.mozilla.com to download and install Firefox.  Then Google
“adblock plus” and install it.  That will make your browsing experience
both faster and safer.  If you’re really paranoid, Google “noscript”
and install that too — but know that it will block active elements
from all websites, forcing you to ok each time you visit a new site.

3) Antivirus

I don’t run any antivirus programs.  My opinion is that they slow down your PC and provide no real benefit.

Antivirus software companies want you to live in fear.  Their
programs take a long time to run and look like they’re doing a lot. 
They often cause incompatibilities with other programs, resulting in
more problems than they prevent.  Go commando and just practice safe
computing, avoiding these 5 risky practices:

- visiting harmful websites with Internet Explorer on low security settings

- clicking on links from emails (a friend of mine was infected after clicking a link forwarded from his CEO)

- opening attachments from emails
- downloading disreputable software and porn

- running peer-to-peer file-sharing programs

4) Backup

Your computer can die at any time.  Realize this, and take precautions.  Divide your data into three categories:

- Unchanging (photos, music, and old documents): burn these to DVD’s.
- Changing (current documents): copy to a USB flash key, or use an online service
- Secure (financial and very private): use CD/DVD encryption software
like CD-Lock, or a fingerprint flash key, or a secure online service.