You can learn to use a computer at any age!  This book has been especially written for the over 50’s using plain English and avoiding technical jargon. It applies to both laptop and desktop computers running Windows 7, Vista or XP. It provides the basic knowledge that you will need to set up, understand and use your computer. It should help you gain enough confidence to join the local computer class or to move on to more advanced      uses if you so wish. Completely up to date covering the latest technologies and advancements in computing.  Ideal for those who have never used a computer before and also those who perhaps want to move onto a more modern upgraded system.

Among the many practical and useful ideas for using your computer that are covered in the book are:-

• Why older people should try to master using a PC and the ways it can help them in everyday life.
• The  advantages and disadvantages of various types of computer.
• Very simple explanation of main computing concepts — what is a computer, operating system, software ,etc..
• Windows 7 in more detail.
• Making your computer easier to use if you suffer from impaired vision, hearing or mobility.
• Connecting to and using the Internet.
• Communication — e-mail, Social networking and Skype.
• Creative computing — using Microsoft Word Publisher, Excel and Paint.
• Multi-Media - digital photos, videos, music and TV.
• Looking after your computer.
• And much more besides…

Divided into approximately 80 sections for easy reference which are loosely arranged over four groups. Each section covers a common hardware or software problem, its' causes and a simple practical solution. The solutions are explained in detail using plain English and little or no technical knowledge is assumed. Emphasis is placed on topics that are of particular interest to the older generation. The four groups are as follows and among the topics covered are:
Laptop Fixes: Topics include optimising battery life, making the most of limited screen size and making the screen as easy as pos-sible to read. Using an external pointing device to make the computer easier to use and using Windows Ease of Ac-cess utility programs.
Windows Problems: Includes start-up and shut-down problems, avoiding the computer slowing down due to 'bloat' and speeding it up again if this has already happened.
Networking/Internet Problems: How to use Wi-Fi safely and what not to do. Getting good signals with Wi-Fi and Internet dongles, using a Broad-band router. Connecting to the Internet without a Broadband connection. Downloading large files.
Peripherals and Hardware: Includes problems with cables and wireless links. Getting your printer to print in the required fashion, dealing with paper jams and feed problems. Getting a scanner to work correctly. Getting the correct driver software installed for internal and external hardware.

This book should help you to stop 'panicking' when something will not work and could save you hours of time trying.