Absolute Beginner's Guide to Computer Basics, 2E, teaches you how to get the most from your personal computer system - and from common peripherals, including CD burners, digital cameras, and PDAs. This book shows new computers users how to set up their computer hardware, find their way around the Windows XP desktop, learn to use essential software programs, and get connected to and start using the Internet. Users will also learn how to keep their computer systems up and running, and how to troubleshoot common computer problems. Everything is explained in an easy-to-understand language, with step-by-step instructions and helpful illustrations. This book presents a non-technical approach to an otherwise technically intimidating topic, it's filled with practical information and real-world advice.

Michael Miller is a successful and prolific author with a reputation for practical advice and technical accuracy and an unerring empathy for the needs of his readers. Mr. Miller has written more than 50 best-selling books in the past 15 years. His books for Que include Absolute Beginner's Guide to Upgrading and Fixing Your PC, Absolute Beginner's Guide to eBay, and Bargain Hunter's Secrets to Online Shopping. He is known for his casual, easy-to-read writing style and his practical, real-world advice-as well as his ability to explain a wide variety of complex topics to an everyday audience. You can email Mr. Miller directly at abg@molehillgroup.com. His Web site is located at http://www.molehillgroup.com.

Introduction. I. GETTING STARTED. 1. Understanding Your Computer Hardware. 2. Setting Up Your New Computer System. II. USING WINDOWS. 3. Understanding Microsoft Windows XP. 4. Taking Windows for a Spin. 5. Personalizing Windows. 6. Working with Files and Folders. III. UPGRADING AND MAINTAINING YOUR SYSTEM. 7. Adding New Hardware and Devices to Your System. 8. Setting Up a Home Network. 9. Performing Routine Maintenance. 10. Dealing with Common Problems. IV. USING COMPUTER SOFTWARE. 11. Installing New Software. 12. Using Suites and Bundles. 13. Working with Words. 14. Working with Numbers. 15. Working with a Database. 16. Working with Presentations. 17. Managing Your Finances. 18. Creating Cool Projects and Greeting Cards. 19. Learning with Educational Software. 20. Playing Games. V. USING THE INTERNET. 21. Connecting to the Internet. 22. Surfing the Web. 23. Finding Stuff Online. 24. Buying and Selling Online. 25. Sending and Receiving Email. 26. Using Instant Messaging and Chat. 27. Using Newsgroups, Message Boards, and Blogs. 28. Downloading Files. 29. Creating Your Own Web Page. 30. Protecting Your PC from Viruses, Spam, and Other Nuisances. VI. WORKING WITH MUSIC, MOVIES, AND PHOTOS. 31. Playing CDs and DVDs. 32. Ripping and Burning CDs. 33. Downloading and Playing Digital Music. 34. Using Your PC with a Portable Music Player. 35. Editing Your Own Home Movies. 36. Burning and Copying DVDs. 37. Connecting a Digital Camera or Scanner. 38. Working with Digital Pictures. Index.