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The basics section of this site is designed to help you learn the basics of Windows. 90% of the guides on this site require a level of understanding just beyond these basics; thus, if you are new to computers, go through the basics and you’ll be ready to tackle anything!

Quick Tips:

Step 1. Learn about PC Security and Maintenance

Before you experiment with your PC, it is essential you understand PC security and maintenance. Staying secure is more important than ever before and PC maintenance is necessary to keep your PC running like it did when you purchased it. I’ve written two short books that are completely free and available for direct download. You will need a PDF reader to open these files; I recommend Adobe reader.

Windows PC Security Handbook 2nd Edition

PC Security Handbook 2nd Edition

Learn defensive computing techniques to help you avoid malware and data loss with this free 36-page eBook (more details on what’s new in the 2nd edition.) Download the PC Security Handbook 2nd Edition (Free Newsletter Signup Required)

210maintenance2nd Free Windows Books

PC Maintenance Handbook 2nd Edition

Learn how to improve your PC’s performance, speed, and reliability with this free 42-page eBook (more details on what’s new in the 2nd edition.) Download the PC Maintenance Handbook 2nd Edition (Free Newsletter Signup Required)

Step 2. Expand your knowledge of Windows Vista/7

Your next step is to explore what your computer can do for you. I’ve written three books, which are also free. These books help you learn basic to intermediate computer skills. You do not need to read these books cover to cover—explore them and learn at your own pace.

Windows 7 - The Pocket Guide

Windows 7 – The Pocket Guide

Learn the basics of Windows 7 and apply them to customize your PC and work more efficiently. Download the Windows 7 – The Pocket Guide (Preview) (Free Newsletter Signup Required) Available Languages:

  • English
  • Croatian
  • German
  • Indonesian
  • Italian
  • Persian
  • Portuguese
  • Spanish
  • Vietnamese
Windows Vista Books

Windows Vista – The Pocket Guide

Download the Windows Vista – The Pocket Guide (Preview) (Free Newsletter Signup Required)

Windows Vista – Customization Manual

Download the Windows Vista – Customization Manual (Preview) (Free Newsletter Signup Required)

Step 3. Explore Intermediate Customization

Customization is the most fun aspect of playing with your PC. Browse the customization sections of Windows Guides to learn some tricks:

Step 4. Join the Community and Learn

Now you’re feeling more confident with Windows, you should join Windows Forums: a community focused on helping you get the most out of your PC. There you can learn anything to do with PCs in a friendly, non-judgmental environment.

Step 5. Contribute and Help Others

Now you’ve mastered the basics (and even intermediate topics), you’re ready to help others. Here are some tips to share your knowledge:

  • Share this site with friends and family.
  • Use this site to remind you how to accomplish tasks, which will help others.
  • Join the forums and share your knowledge.
  • Write a tutorial for Windows Guides (i.e. The Easiest Way to Uninstall a Program, How to Open PDF Files without Adobe Reader, etc.) Send your tutorial to me.

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