When choosing a computer an individual needs to consider what the computer will be used for including the following:
Applications (programs and software) that will be run, loaded, or used on it. Hardware that will be connected to it, now and in the future. Upgrade and support and compatibility with other programs. Budget available to you and cost. Space and movable function of equipment.
COMPUTER USAGE
Most computers for the average home user will be used for simple letter writing, email checking, photo printing or viewing, chat or online services (browsing the web), uploading/downloading music, videos or managing them and playing games, either online or with installed programs.
For the home user with only these purposes of use it is important to remember that game programs, videos, music and picture files take up a lot of space. Most average computers are being sold with around an 80 gig hard drive. This will hold a fair amount of programs and files of these types. If you plan on loading an increased amount of photos, videos or games, you will want to consider a larger drive so you don't run out of space when you least expect it. A solution to this would be to buy an external drive or backing up videos, music and photos to disks and storing them separate from your hard drive.
For the small business with similar needs to the home user with the exception of presentations, web design, specialty software for your business use and the need for increased speed only a few adjustments may be needed. Increased processor speed (to be able to enter data and retrieve it faster) and additional ram (Random access memory) to run more programs simultaneously as well as increasing hard drive storage space to minimum 120 gig and including additional back up and data storage drives externally to store information without consuming your entire hard drive and give yourself back up in the event of data loss or corruption.
For the large company, it is recommended you contact a networking company and install a server for companies with more than five computers.
APPLICATIONS
Every program or application takes a minimum amount of space on your hard drive and minimum amount of ram to function. That doesn't mean it will run effectively or properly. If you are able to purchase the maximum or recommended amount of RAM and disk space for your programs to run properly and optimally, do so. If you are installing more than one program or application that requires a high amount of RAM memory and plan on running more than one app or program simultaneously then purchase more or look for a computer that offers higher ram. This will prevent slow applications, slow start up and slow streaming of video and music files as well as provide greater capability of simultaneous applications being run.
Compatibility of applications and programs with your operating system and other programs, including software and hardware should always be checked. This ensures you can use what you buy without computer crashes or problems.
Purchasing a computer pre-loaded with software doesn't always mean it is the best one. These pre-loaded programs can cost you money in the long run, usually by only offering a free trial period and taking up space on your hard drive. Be aware of what you really need when you purchase a computer.
Openoffice.org for example offers free software that is just as effective as Office software suites and is completely free. Online service providers pre-loaded on your computer and free anti-virus programs pre-loaded are fine, but usually have the same hitch, after the trial period, you pay for it. It is convenient, but there are usually better or comparable products that provide you with a disk, support and other services for less money. Be informed about the quality of your programs that are preloaded and costs associated with them when purchasing a computer that is pre-loaded.
Operating system and other applications. Make sure you get a restore disk, support plan and usage booklet. Also be sure that you have a product key and that the program(s) is or can be registered to you. Make sure it is authentic, licensed or group licensed (OEM). If the software, including the operating system is not authentic (pirated software) you will have difficulty getting critical updates and product support. Pirated software greatly affects system performance and can lead to a computers failure and in some cases, legal complications.
HARDWARE
Be informed about hardware, including processor speed (don't buy anything under 1.8 GHz), hard drive size (nothing under 80 gig) in today's market. Video cards should be 24 bit (bare min here) or higher. Make sure that it has at least two high speed USB ports and four is recommended. This is to ensure that you can hook up a printer, camera or video, external hard drives or disks and mouse. Most of today's products are not done through serial or parallel ports, but through USB ports and high speed ports will help whatever you plug into them run faster or communicate faster.
Make sure your computer is able to be upgraded, this includes, the processor and additional expansion slots and memory slots if you plan on keeping it for longer than two years. This will enable you to upgrade if needed. If you purchase from popular vendors, upgrading is usually easier and cheaper than buying a whole new computer.
Make sure it has a quality sound card, video card and gaming port if you plan on playing music, videos and games. You will need to know this in advance, if you plan on using a web camera, microphone or online communication device or if you plan on buying a flat screen monitor now or in the future or plan on watching HDTV through your computer.
For data storage buy a computer that has a DVD/CD R/W on it to watch videos, burn and store data, music or other files including back up files for external storage in the event of data loss and retrieval. Purchase disks that are compatible with your drive. The higher the speed of the drive, the faster it will burn, save, store and retrieve (read) data, so get one that is capable of at least 52 times or higher.
Know what internet connection you will be using if it will be dial-up, wireless, network card (high speed Ethernet cable), fiber optic (satellite, infrared, cable connect etc) and make sure the computer your buying has the right card or connection as well as software, cards, cords, cables etc to hook up to.
Buy a surge protector and battery back-up combination unit, in the event of power surge or failure. These will protect your computer and allow you time to save your work by signaling to you a power loss, surge or failure and storing up energy to allow you time to close your computer properly and save your work.
UPGRADE AND SUPPORT
Buying a computer with a service plan is wise as well as an upgrade and support plan. Nothing is worse than crashing your computer or deleting files accidentally and having no way of being able to repair or reinstall. The very minimum you should get a restore disk, or original operating system disk with a product key. Purchasing the support and service package is just extra insurance that the computer stays running and protects against damaged or defective internal hardware and software problems. Even if you can't save the data, at least you can get your computer running again and re-load your software if you have the disks or a service plan.
BUDGET AND COST
Write a list of needs then wants. Base your budget on the needs and focus on wants later. If you don't have the money right now, if you buy an upgradeable computer you can always add on extras later. Most computers can be upgraded easily enough, just be sure when you purchase your service, upgrade and support plan that your warranty is not affected if you upgrade yourself.
If you can include upgrades in your service plan agreement so that the provider can do this for you. Don't void your warranty by opening up your computer and attempting to upgrade or replace hardware without consulting your agreement first and make sure it is in writing, if the service plan will allow you to upgrade on your own.
SPACE AND MOBILITY
You will need to decide if the computer needs to be mobile. If you need your information or want your information to be able to travel with you, then you should buy a laptop. Laptops work fine as a home pc and can be taken with you. Wireless internet capability should be considered if you are purchasing a laptop and want to get online. Make sure the laptop has a network card, wireless card or fiber optic port for internet on the go. External hard rives are nice as well and are easily attached through USB as are printers, a mouse etc. Laptops can function as a desktop as well and are popular for business, students and any one who wants to take their computer with them. They are also incredibly easy to steal and thieves target them, so purchase a gps tracker on your laptop (to find it when stolen) and necessary equipment to lock your laptop (anti-theft functions) and anti-theft carries case.
Desktop pc's are larger and bulkier as are monitors, with the exception of the flat monitor (plasma screen). They do require more space and the work area should be considered when buying the case, monitor, printer or any other external hard ware and equipment. Cord organizers are extremely helpful when purchasing a desktop computer.
Now that you know what your looking for, you can go find the one that fits your needs, wants and your own personal taste and sense of style. Shop around and price compare based on your list.