Home Network

What is a Home Network?

Tips for watching the video. A home network is a method of connecting computers that allows them to communicate with one another. If you have two or more computers in your home, a network can let the computers share an Internet connection, devices such as printers and scanners, and files.

Let's explore the different types of home computer networks and some of the terms you need to know if you decide a home network is right for you.

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Why Would You Use a Home Network?

If you have multiple computers in a home and you want to use all of them to access the Internet, print files, and play video games, a home network allows you to do that without significant extra expense. With a home network, you can share these resources.

Imagine This...

If I have a home network, I can use my laptop in the living room to shop online, while my daughter uses the computer in the home office to research her term paper online. We can share the same Internet connection at the same time and do completely different things. Her brother can even use the third computer to play games online at the same time, or do something completely different. You can even arrange the home network so it is possible for multiple computers to share the same files. This isn't as common with a basic home network arrangement, but a home network can give you this option.

Home networks aren't just for families! Even if you live alone, a home network may be right for you if you use multiple computers, such as a desktop in the home office and a laptop when you are watching television.

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What Do I Need to Create a Home Network?

To create a home network, the two main items you will need are a modem and a router. Depending on your specific computer hardware, there are a few other items you may need, but these are the two main components.

Modem

Example Cable Modem A modem is a device that allows a computer to send data over telephone or cable lines. It is the device that basically brings the Internet into the house.

The type of Internet service you use -- dial-up, DSL, or cable, will determine the type of modem you use. If you are using DSL or cable Internet access, the modem is usually provided by your Internet Service Provider (ISP).

Router

Example Router In addition to a modem, you will need a router. A router is the device that is responsible for making sure the information that is being sent using the Internet makes it to the necessary destination. It allows two people to use the Internet at the same time without the pages being mixed up. The router directs messages so that each person is delivered the web page that he or she requested.

This device is not supplied by your ISP, so you will need to purchase one if you decide to create a home network.

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What Types of Networks Are There?

There are two types of networks, wired and wireless. Both types of networks have advantages and disadvantages. If you decide to create a home network, you'll have to weight the benefits and drawbacks of both types to determine which is best for your situation.

Wired Networks

Wired networks are faster than wireless networks, and are generally very affordable. If the computers are far apart and/or your house is big, you will want to consider the cost of the cable. While cable is not very expensive, the cost of having someone to install it can be.

Wireless Networks

Wireless Router
Wireless networks use radio waves instead of wires to transmit information. A wireless router receives the information and then sends it to the Internet using a wired connection, an Ethernet cable.

One of the primary advantages of this type of network is that it offers you a great deal of flexibility. If you have a laptop, you can move it from room to room in the house, and sometimes right outside the house, without having to worry about connecting network cables. Also, installation is really very quick and easy.

The disadvantages of this type of network is that wireless connections are typically slower than wired connections, and can also that the connection can sometimes fail due to range issues.

Ethernet Cable

If you compare security between the wired and wireless networks, you might guess that a wired network is more secure; however, if you use a wireless network you can take additional steps to ensure that the information you communicate over the network is safe. This is an extra step that is necessary when dealing with wireless networks.

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Terms to Know

It would be nearly impossible to show you exactly how to set up a router and a network because there are many variations in the process that are dependent on the brand of router your choose and the modem you use. Additionally, if you are creating a wired home network, the size of your house, location of computers, and location of outlets will play a role in how it is set up. Your existing hardware will also play a factor.

Don't worry! The router you choose should come with clear directions as to how to install it, and generally this is a very easy process. Since the modem is usually installed by your ISP, you probably will not have to install that device.

You can become more comfortable with the process and be ready to read any setup instruction guides if you are familiar with a few key terms.

Wireless Adapter
Wireless Adapter for Card Slot If you want to create a wireless home network with your desktop or laptop, or use your laptop to surf the Internet at a public WiFi hotspot, you will need to check your computer to see if it is wireless-ready.

Most new laptops and some desktop computers are preloaded with wireless transmitters that will allow you to use the computer on a wireless network. If your laptop or desktop is not wireless-enabled and you want it to be part of a wireless network, you can buy a wireless adapter that plugs into the USB port or the card slot.

Firewall
If you have a DSL or cable modem, you will need a firewall for your home network. A firewall acts as a filter and monitors the information that is being sent over the network. Luckily, most routers offer firewall protection, so it is a good idea to choose one with this feature.

SSID
A Service Set Identifier, commonly called the SSID, is the name of a wireless network. It is a series of alphanumeric characters (numbers and letter) that you can set when you create your wireless network. It is the network's name and how you, or other users of the network, will identify it. You will want to change the default SSID, but avoid using a name that someone might guess.

Encryption passphrase
An encryption passphrase is a series of words that is used to control access to the network. It very important that you remember this information once you set it while you are installing your router.

Domain
A specific name for a network of computers.

Encryption
Encryption is the process of changing your information so that it is not readable to anyone without the encryption key. Basically, it takes your data and codes it so that it is not viewable by unauthorized people. You have to have the encryption key to decode the data. Encryption enhances security on your home network.

On wireless networks, it is very important to encrypt your data so that other people can not use you wireless signal and view your information. There are many types of encryption, but WEP, or the Wireless Encryption Protocol, is the type of encryption used in wireless networks.

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Challenge!

• Do you have more than one computer at home? If so, think about how a home network would benefit you.
• Would a wired network or wireless network be right for you?

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Troubleshooting Techniques

What are Some Troubleshooting Techniques?

Tips for watching the video.
The computer goes blank before the Word document was saved. The browser window freezes for no reason. You can't hear anything from the web camera or your speakers.

Most people have at one time or another experienced a computer problem like at least one of situations described, and if you haven't, chances are you will at some point.

Computer problems can be upsetting, especially if you are trying to meet a deadline for work or school. Most problems are minor and can be easily fixed, so don't panic when computer problems happen to you. Instead, work your way through some basic troubleshooting techniques and try to solve the problem.

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Basic Troubleshooting Tips

For every problem there is a solution. For computer problems, it can be something as simple as a loose cord, or something more complicated. While it isn't necessary to learn how to locate and fix, or troubleshoot, every potential problem, it is a good idea to know some common pitfalls and how to handle those issues.

Here are four general tips to keep in mind when you are troubleshooting computer issues.

Check All Cables, Wires and Cords
• Always check the cables, wires, and cords.
  A majority of computer problems are related to an issue in the cables and connections. The easiest first step you can take to troubleshoot most problems is to check all related cables and connections.


• Isolate the problem.
  If it is possible to isolate the problem, then do so. For example, if you can't get the cursor to move on the screen, try to determine if the issue is with the mouse. If you have an extra mouse, you can alternate devices to see if the one plugged in is the issue, or use the arrow keys on the keyboard to help determine if the mouse is the source of the problem. When trying to isolate the problem, only make one change at a time.

• Take notes about error messages
  If your computer gives you error messages, be sure to write down as much information as possible. If the basic troubleshooting steps don't work, you may need the information.


Example Error Message


• Remember the steps you've taken, or write it down.
  Once you start troubleshooting, you will want to remember what you have done, so you don't repeat yourself. Also, each possible repair that you try that doesn't work is one less possible solution. If you can't remember it, then write it down. You'll be glad you did if it turns out to be a problem that you need additional assistance to solve.

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Specific Troubleshooting Problems

There are many devices, parts, cords, and connections on a computer, which means that there are many possible problem areas that could arise. Additionally, your computer uses a variety of software, which can cause additional issues. However, there are some common computer problems that you may experience.

Programs Stall/Freeze While Working

• Press the Control, Alt, Delete keys. The Task Manager dialog box appears.

Press the Ctrl, Alt, and Delete Keys

• Select the Applications tab.
• Click a process or task to highlight it.

Task Manager

• Click End Task.
• Repeat, as necessary, to end multiple programs or processes.
• If the computer continues to freeze, restart it. This will clear many errors.

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Specific Troubleshooting Problems (cont.)

Power Button Will Not Start Computer

Power Cord

• If your desktop computer does not start, begin by checking the power cord to confirm that it is plugged securely into the back of the computer case and the power outlet.
• If it is plugged into an outlet, make sure it is a working outlet. Often, this will require you to plug a lamp or other electrical device into the outlet to make sure it is receiving power.
• If the computer is plugged into a surge protector, verify that it is turned on.
• If it is, press the reset switch if it has one.
• Confirm the outlet on the surge protector is working by plugging a lamp or other electrical device into it.

Power Cord in Surge Protector

• If you can hear the fan or drive from within the computer case, but the monitor remains blank, make sure the monitor is connected to a working outlet.
• Plug a lamp or other electrical device into the outlet to make sure it is receiving power.
• Make sure the monitor cable between the monitor and computer case is securely connected. The monitor cable has multiple pins. If one of these is broken or bent, the monitor display can be affected.
• 
  

Windows Shutting Down Message Will Not Disappear

Windows Shutdown Screen Sometimes Windows will freeze during the shutdown process. If this happens, the Windows is Shutting Down message screen will stay active on your screen. To finish shutting down the computer, press and hold the power button for about 10 seconds, or until the computer turns off.

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Specific Troubleshooting Problems (cont.)

Display Properties Dialog Box

Screen Goes Blank Periodically

You may have the screen saver enabled. If the screen saver is enabled, just move your mouse back and forth and your original screen will appear. If you would like to disable the screen saver feature:

• Go to the Start menu.
• Select the Control Panel.
• Click Display.
• Choose the Screen Saver tab.
• Disable screen saver or change your screen saver settings.

Move Mouse

No Sound

• Check the volume control on your computer.
• The Sound icon may be in the bottom, right corner of the window.
• If not, access the sound options from tControl Panel.
Sound Control Panel

• Verify the mute option is not selected.
• Make sure the speakers are turned on, if using external speakers.
• Make sure external speakers are connected to the correct audio port, which is usually green.
• Connect headphones to the correct audio port and determine if sound is audible from the headphones.

Computer Begins Randomly Rebooting or Crashing

• Check for overheating. Make sure the vents in the case are not blocked.
• Confirm that there is good air flow around the computer.
• Update your virus protection software to check for a virus.

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Non-System Disk or Disk Error Message

Non-System Disk Error Message

• If the monitor and computer have power and the Non-System Disk or Disk Error message appears on the screen, check the drives.
• Remove any disks that are in drives, such as CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, and USB drives.
• Restart the computer.

Operating System Won't Start

• If the computer and monitor have power, restart Windows using the original disc.
• If it starts from the disc, the problem is probably related to the hard disk drive.
• Read your instruction manual about reformatting a hard drive. You may have to buy a new one.

Existing Software Program Stops Working

• Go to the Start menu.
• Select Control Panel.
• Choose Add/Remove Programs.
• Remove the software program.
• Reinstall the software program.
• If the computer stalls or crashes, check with the company for any known problems or updates to the software.

Add/Remove Programs

No Picture on the Monitor

• Confirm the computer is turned on.
• Make sure the monitor cable is connected to both the monitor and the computer case.
• Check the power cable from the monitor to the wall outlet or surge protector.
• Confirm that the wall outlet or surge protector outlet has power to it.
• Check the brightness controls, located on your computer monitor, and make sure it is at the correct position so the screen does not display dark.

If you have a computer problem that you don't know how to solve, use the Internet to search for possibly solutions. There are many other users that may have experienced the same issue as you. This is especially true for error messages with number codes. You can always search to learn more about each message.

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Challenge!

• Think about times when your computer has had any of the problems described in the lesson.
• How did you handle the problem?

Keep My Computer Healthy

How Do I Keep My Computer Healthy?

Tips for watching the video. Computers are expensive, and with all big purchases, you probably want to protect your investment. Luckily, it is not difficult to keep your computer healthy and in good working order.

Basically, there are 3 areas that you need to maintain. You need to:

• Keep the physical components of your computer clean
• Protect your computer from threats such as viruses, and
• Keep your files in order to make day-to-day use of your computer efficient and easy.

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Keep Your Computer Physically Clean

When dealing with computers, dust isn't just unattractive, it can potentially destroy parts of your computer. And while the problems that arise because of poorly cleaned computers can usually be fixed, it involves maintenance fees that no one really wants to spend. One of the best things you can do to keep your computer working properly is to clean it regularly.

Cleaning the Keyboard

A dirty keyboard doesn't look nice, and can cause your keyboard to not work properly. If dust, food, liquid, or other particles get stuck underneath the keys, they might not work. If you need to clean your keyboard, check your owner's manual to see if the manufacturer has provided you with instructions for your specific keyboard. If so, you should follow them. If not, the following steps are basic cleaning tips that will help you keep your keyboard clean.

Tilt Keyboard and Spray Compressed Air Can of Compressed Air

• Shut down the computer and unplug it.
• Disconnect the keyboard from the PS/2 or USB port.
• Use a can of compressed air to clean between the keys.
• Spray the air at an angle to best reach any particles beneath the keys.
• Turn the keyboard upside down and move back and forth to loosen dust. Also, tap the bottom of the keyboard while upside down to dislodge any other particles.
• Turn the keyboard right-side up.
• Pour rubbing alcohol on a paper towel or anti-static wipe.
• Wipe the keys and keyboard.
• Reconnect the keyboard to the computer once it is dry.

You can use an electronics cleaning fluid if you wish, but rubbing alcohol works just as well as specialized products and is usually less expensive. Whether using rubbing alcohol or another cleaning fluid, never pour the liquid directly on the keyboard. Always wet a anti-static wipe, or paper towel, and use it to clean the keyboard.

You may want to use a plastic keyboard cover to protect the keyboard if dust or other particles are an issue.

What About Liquids?

If you spill liquid on the keyboard, quickly shut down the computer, and disconnect and turn the keyboard upside down to allow the liquid to drain.

If the liquid is sticky, you will need to hold the keyboard on its side under running water to rinse the sticky liquid away. Then, turn the keyboard upside down to drain for two days. The keyboard may not be repairable at this point, but rinsing the sticky liquid off the keyboard is the only chance for it to be usable again. Keep in mind, the best way to avoid this situation is to keep drinks away from the computer area.

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Keep Your Computer Physically Clean

Optical Mouse Mechanical Mouse

Cleaning the Mouse

There are two main types of mice, mechanical and optical. Each is cleaned in basically the same way, although the mechanical mouse requires a few extra steps.

Mechanical mice are especially susceptible to dust and particles that can accumulate inside the mouse, which can make it difficult to track, or move, properly.

Optical mice require no internal cleaning since there aren't any rotating parts; however, they can get sticky over time as dust collects near the light emitter or on sticky pads, if your mouse has these. This can cause erratic cursor movement or the mouse to not work at all.

Before you clean your mouse, check your owner's manual to see if the manufacturer has provided you with instructions for your specific mouse. If so, you should follow those instructions. If not, the following steps are basic cleaning tips that will help you keep your mouse clean.

Mechanical Mouse with Ball-Cover Ring Removed

To Clean a Mechanical Mouse:

• Shut down the computer and unplug it.
• Disconnect the mouse from the PS/2 or USB port.
• Turn the mouse upside down.
• Push and turn the ball-cover ring in the direction indicated on the mouse to unlock the ring. If you don't see any arrows, push the ring and turn counterclockwise. If your mouse uses screws, use a screwdriver to unscrew the ring.
• Turn the mouse sideways to remove the ring and tracking ball.
• Rinse the tracking ball with water.
• Use an anti-static wipe, paper towel, or cotton swab dampened with rubbing alcohol to remove the dust from inside and outside the mouse.
• Let all the parts dry.
• Reassemble all the parts of the mouse.
• Reconnect the mouse to the computer.

To Clean an Optical Mouse:

Optical Mouse Turned Upside Down

• Shut down the computer and unplug it.
• Disconnect the mouse from the PS/2 or USB port.
• Turn the mouse upside down.
• Use an anti-static wipe or paper towel damped with rubbing alcohol to lightly wipe the bottom of the mouse. Be sure the wipe is only lightly dampened.
• Use an anti-static wipe or paper towel damped with water to wipe the areas.
• Place the mouse on a clean, white sheet of paper and run the mouse over it. Dust and/or particles should rub off onto the paper.

It important to keep your mouse clean if you want to easily point, click, and drag items around the screen, as a dirty mouse can interfere with these actions

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Keep Your Computer Physically Clean

Cleaning the Monitor

Dirt, finger prints, and dust can make your computer screen difficult to read; however, it's easy to clean your screen when needed. As discussed in lesson 2, the two main types of monitors are cathode ray tube (CRT) and liquid crystal display (LCD) . The CRT monitors have glass screens and resemble a tube television, while the LCD monitor is a flat-panel monitor that is not made of glass. Both require different cleaning procedures. If you have a desktop computer, you will need to clean your monitor based by following the instructions for the type that you have. If you have a laptop computer, you will need to follow the LCD/flat-panel instructions.

To Clean a Glass Screen

Monitor Cleaner

• Turn off the computer and unplug it.
• Disconnect the monitor from the computer case.
• Use a paper towel, lint-free cloth, or monitor-cleaning cloth dampened with water to wipe the screen clean.

You can purchase and use special monitor cleaning products, but water is usually sufficient. Additionally, you can use a cloth dampened with an ammonia-free glass cleaner to clean glass monitors.

You may want to consult your owner's manual to see what the manufacturer recommends. Be sure your screen does not have anti-glare protection if you are using anything other than water.

To Clean an LCD/Flat-Panel Screen

• Turn off the computer and unplug it.
• Disconnect the monitor from the computer case, if working with a desktop computer.
• Wipe a dry, soft cloth across the screen. Any soft cloth will work, or you can use a special monitor cleaning cloth.
• If dust, fingerprints, or dirt remain on the screen, dampen the cloth with rubbing alcohol.
• Wipe the screen with the damp cloth.

Do not spray any liquids directly onto the LCD screen. Do not use a paper towel as it can scratch the screen. Do not use glass cleaner on LCD screen, as it can remove any anti-glare protection that is on it.

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Keep Your Computer Physically Clean (cont.)

Tips for Cleaning Other Computer Surfaces

• Dust is your computer's enemy main enemy. Use an anti-static wipe to lightly dust your monitor and surfaces. Don't use furniture cleaners or strong solvents.


• Use a can of compressed air with a narrow nozzle to blow out debris from the air intake slots.


• Spray cleaning solution (diluted ammonia cleaner or glass cleaner) on a paper towel or anti-static wipe. Clean the monitor housing and case (not the monitor screen) starting from the top and to the bottom.


• A safe cleaning solution for computer surfaces (not computer screens) is ammonia diluted with water, or glass cleaner comprised mostly of ammonia and water (check the label). Remember, the milder the solution, the better.

Keep it Cool

Don't restrict the airflow around your computer. Since it generates a lot of heat, an internal fan cools your computer. Dust and dirt can cause the fan to fail. So, avoid putting your computer in an area with a lot of dust and don't stack papers, books or other items on or around your computer.

Always place your computer in an open area that allows adequate airflow. A lot of the computer desks that you can buy have a narrow opening for the computer case. Be wary of these because they may not allow for adequate airflow. If you have this type of desk, you may want to position the case so it is not against the back side of the desk. If the compartment where the case is located has a door, leave it open when the computer is turned on.

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Keep Your Computer Safe

Cleaning your computer and doing preventive maintenance, such as scanning for viruses, helps keep it running smoothly. Preventative maintenance saves you time, as well, since it saves you the hassle of dealing with systems failures and data loss.

Viruses,Trojan Horses, and Worms

Viruses
Just like a biological virus can make you physically sick, a computer virus can make your computer sick. A virus is a small piece of software that finds it way onto your computer without your knowledge, and causes trouble on your computer system. You may not even know your computer has been infected with a virus until your computer slows down, a program stops working, your computer crashes, or error messages begin appearing.

Many viruses are transferred by email. The virus will travel as an email attachment, and when the attached file is downloaded, the virus will begin to do its job. Often, email viruses will continue to spread by attacking your address book, emailing your contacts, and spreading the virus more.

Trojan Horses
Another destructive piece of software that is similar to a virus is called a Trojan horse. A Trojan horse is simply a program that claims to do one thing, but really does something else to your computer. For example, you may find a site on the Internet and download what you think is a solitaire game, only to run the program and have it delete files.

Worms
A third item you need to safeguard your computer against are worms. Unlike viruses, worms do not attach to other files or programs, but spread themselves over computer networks by taking advantage of the network setup. Worms can delete files or send emails like viruses, but usually they affect the computer's memory, which slows down your computer.

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Protect Your Computer

You may be wondering where viruses come from. People are responsible for writing computer viruses. Some are meant to be funny, while others are meant to do damage to your computer. Since we can't control what people do, the real question is, how can I keep my computer safe from viruses?

Tips to Stay Safe

Use Anti-virus Software
The best thing you can do for your computer is use an anti-virus software. Anti-virus software is a program that protects your email, files, and downloads against viruses, worms, and Trojan horses; removes existing threats from your computer; and protects against new viruses if the anti-virus software is updated regularly.

There are several free options, or you can purchase a commercial one such as Norton or McAfee, which are relatively inexpensive when you think about the damage that can be done to your computer. If you already have anti-virus software, verify your virus protection is current. New viruses are written all the time, so it is important that the virus protection that you use be current. This doesn't mean that you have to continuously purchase new software. Most anti-virus software vendors provide updates to your software regularly, and some even provide automatic downloads and updates.

Read Lesson 15 of our Internet Safety tutorial to learn more about anti-virus software.

Avoid Downloading Programs from Unknown Sources
The Internet is full of unknown sources. If you are going to use the Internet, become a savvy web surfer. Learn to look and explore a website to determine if it is a credible site and most likely safe to download from. For example, if you spend some time on the GCFLearnFree.org site you will see that the site is organized and well designed. There is information about who we are, as well contact information in the form of a physical address and email addresses. We are a credible site. Think about who is responsible for the web site and make your best judgment before downloading games, programs, or documents from unknown sources.

Be Cautious of Email Attachments
Never double-click on an email attachment that contains an executable file with an extension such as .exe or .vbs. In generally, be cautious of email attachments and don't download or open files from people you do not know or were not expecting to receive an email from.

Check the Internet Security Options in Your Browser
Whether you use Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, or another browser, always check the Internet security options that are provided by your browser. Each browser is different, so use the Help tool in your browser to learn more about how it helps defend your computer against threats.

Internet Explorer Options Dialog Box

Take a look at our Internet Safety lessons to learn more about threats to your computer and what you can do to stay safe while using the Internet.

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Deleting Files

To keep your computer running smoothly, it's OK to delete, or erase, unused files. Deleting files helps free up valuable hard disk space. For example, you may want to delete a flyer you created two years ago. However, consider whether you will ever want to use the file again before you delete it. Some files may be too important to get rid of.

To Delete a File or Folder:

• Left-click the file or folder you want to delete.
• Drag the file or folder and drop it in the Recycle Bin, the desktop icon that resembles a wastebasket.



OR


• Right-click the file or folder. A menu appears.
• Choose Delete from the menu.

Emptying the Recycle Bin

When you delete a file from your computer, or move it to the Recycle Bin, it is not automatically deleted, but rather is temporarily stored in the Recycle Bin. This usually gives you the chance to restore the file if you decide you do not want to delete it. If you want to permanently remove files from the computer, thereby clearing the hard disk space the file is located, you need to permanently delete the files in the Recycle Bin. You can do this by emptying the entire Recycle Bin, or deleting individual files.

• Double-click the Recycle Bin icon to open it.
• Click Empty the Recycle Bin in the left pane to delete all the files.

OR


• Right-click a file or folder and choose Delete from the menu. This deletes the selected item.

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Disk Cleanup for Windows

When you install software, operate programs, and surf the Internet, temporary files are created. These files can clutter your computer and slow it down. Windows comes with a Disk Cleanup utility that removes temporary files and empties the Recycle Bin. Clearing out these files helps free up valuable hard disk space.

Windows XP

To Use Windows Disk Cleanup:

• Click Start.
• Choose Programs Accessories System Tools Disk Cleanup.
• The Select Drive dialog box asks you to "Select the drive you want to clean up."

Disk Cleanup in Windows XP

• The C: drive is usually selected by default.
• Click OK to accept DRIVE_C (C:).
• The Disk Cleanup for DRIVE_C (C:) dialog box appears.
• Select Temporary Internet Files, Temporary Files and/or Recycle Bin.
• Click OK and the temp files you selected will be cleaned up.

Many other utilities are available to clean up your hard disk including CleanIt! and CleanWin. Most are freeware or shareware.

Windows Vista

To Use Windows Disk Cleanup:

• Click Start.
• Choose Programs Accessories System Tools Disk Cleanup.
• A Disk Cleanup information box appears as Windows calculates how much disk space you can free up on the C drive.
• The Disk Cleanup dialog box for drive C appears. Note: If the Disk Cleanup: Drive Selection dialog box appears, select the hard disk drive that you want to clean up, and then click OK. If not, the C drive will be chosen by default.

Disk Cleanup in Windows Vista

• Select the check boxes for the files you want to delete on the Disk Cleanup tab.
• Click OK when you finish selecting the files you want to delete.
• Click Delete Files to confirm the operation. Disk Cleanup will remove all the requested files from your computer.

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Challenge!

• Take a look at your computer. Does it need to be cleaned?
• Based on the type of monitor you have, clean your monitor following the steps in the lesson.
• Based on the type of mouse you have, clean your mouse following the steps in the lesson.

Set Up a Computer

Setting Up a Desktop Computer

Monitor and Computer Case on Desk Step 1
Unpack the monitor and computer case from the box. Remove any plastic covering or protective tape. Place the monitor and the computer case where you wish on the desk or work area.

Think about where you want your desk or work area to be located, and where in that area you want your monitor, computer case, and other hardware. Be sure to place your computer case in an area that is well ventilated and that has good air flow. It is important that the computer stay cool, as overheating is a concern, especially if you plan on leaving your computer turned on for long periods of time.

Monitor Cable Step 2
Locate the monitor cable. With PC computers, the ends of the monitor cable are often blue.

Monitor Port on Back of Computer Case Step 3
Locate the monitor port on the back of the computer case, and on the monitor. You may have to look under the screen to locate the port on the monitor. These ports are also called VGA ports and are usually blue.

Note: While blue VGA ports are common, monitors can be connected with other ports, such as the beige DVI port. Read the owner's manual if you have any questions about the type of monitor port your computer uses.

DVI Port

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Setting Up a Desktop Computer (cont.)

Monitor Port Under Monitor Screen Step 4
Connect the cable into the monitor port on the monitor. The pins on the cable fit the port in a specific way, so line up the cable connector and the port. Be careful not to force or bend the pins. If you have misaligned the pins, then they will bend very easily without much resistance.

Once the pins in the cable connector are pushed into the port, turn the plastic-covered screws on each side of the cable to secure it to the monitor.

Monitor Port on Back of Computer Case Step 5
Connect the cable into the monitor port on the back of the computer case. Like with the monitor, be careful not to misalign the pins with the port. Once the pins in the cable connector are pushed into the port, turn the plastic-covered screws on each side of the cable to secure it to the computer case.

PS/2 and USB Ports for Keyboards Step 6
Unpack the keyboard and locate the PS/2, or keyboard, port on the back of the tower. Plug the cable on the end of the keyboard into the PS/2 port. If the keyboard has a USB connector, locate a USB port on the back of the case and connect the keyboard.

Keyboard with PS/2 Connector

PS/2 and USB Ports for a Mouse Step 7
Unpack the mouse and locate the PS/2, or mouse, port on the back of the computer case. Plug the cable on the end of the mouse into the PS/2 port. If the mouse has a USB connector, locate a USB port on the back of the tower and connect the mouse.

USB Mouse

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Setting Up a Desktop Computer (cont.)

Audio Ports Step 8
If your computer uses external speakers, locate the bank of audio ports on the back of the tower and connect the speakers. In this example, the speakers are located in the monitor so speakers do not have to be connected.

The audio ports are often confusing. If your computer has color-coded peripherals that match the colors on the back of the computer case, then connecting the audio components is generally very easy. If the peripheral does not have a color-coded cable, then remember that the speakers will always go in the green port. Headphones connect to the pink port, and various other devices will connect to the blue port, which is the Line In port.

Additionally, many devices, including headphones, now come with USB connectors. In most computers, the USB ports are located directly above the bank of audio ports.

Plug Power Supply Cord into Computer Case Step 9
Plug the power supply cable into the back of the tower, and then into a surge protector power strip.

Power Supply Socket on Monitor Step 10
Plug the second power supply cable into the monitor, and then into the power strip with surge protection. The power supply port may be located beneath the screen on the monitor.

Power Supply Cable Plugged into Power Strip

Step 11
Plug the power strip into a wall outlet, and turn the power on to the monitor, tower, and any external speakers.

It is not a good idea to plug the computer directly into a wall outlet, due to the possibility of electrical surges. A power strip with surge protection is a good investment because it helps protect your computer from this. Some warranties may even exclude electrical damage, so a power strip is really important. Additionally, special power strips with noise filtration can be purchased if interference from multiple appliances is an issue.

You have other sources of protection, like an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), which not only protects your computer from surges, but also serves as an alternate source of power in the event of power loss. As these decrease in price, some home users are finding a UPS a worthwhile investment.

Set Up Complete

Your basic computer hardware is now set up. You might be ready to start working, but before you do, spend a little time arranging your workspace. It needs to promote your productivity, but also be arranged in way that is comfortable and promotes health. The design and arrangement of our computer equipment is not simply a question of what looks nice, but how it can impact our bodies. Computer ergonomics is the science of equipment design and how specific equipment usage and placement can reduce the user's discomfort and increase productivity.

For example, to decrease injuries associated with the soft tissue in the wrists, keep your mouse at the same level as the keyboard and do not use wrist pads while typing. Additionally, to decrease eye strain and neck injuries, position your monitor screen so that your eyes are level with the top of the screen. There are numerous other guidelines regarding chair height, equipment placement, and more that can help you create an efficient and comfortable work area.

Basic Computer Setup Complete

Visit the U.S. Center for Disease Control website for more information about computer work area ergonomics
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After the Hardware...

Part of Windows Setup Wizard The computer box is empty, but your computer isn't fully set up yet. If you are working with a new computer, the manufacturer usually includes a guide to help you with the next steps.

Here are some of the things you can expect to do when you turn the computer on for the first time.

Customize Windows
Once you turn on your computer, you will be prompted to customize Windows to meet your needs. You will have to enter your product key, make decisions regarding the region and language settings, set the computer's date and time, and other administrative-type tasks.

Network Decisions
If you have a home network, you should probably select the typical installation setting, which is best for beginners, and enter a domain name. If you aren't connecting your new computer to a network, you'll be able to skip these steps.

Printer
Automatic Updates
The Windows installation wizard will complete the install process. You will be prompted to decide whether you would like to turn on automatic updates. This is up to you, but if you think you may forget to seek out updates, it is not a bad idea to have them prompted automatically.

Register Software
At the end of the installation process, a dialog box will appear that asks you how you connect to the Internet. You need to provide this information so that Windows can be activated and your copy of the software registered.

Connect Other Devices
Once Windows is running, you can connect your printer and other devices. Each printer and other peripherals install differently, so review the related instruction manual before connecting a device. For example, a printer from company A may require software to be loaded before the printer can work, while a printer from company B may simply require the device be plugged into a USB port.

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Challenge!

• If you have a desktop computer that is already set up at home, take a look at it.
• Look at the monitor cable and see where it connects to the computer case and monitor.
• Locate the power cords for the monitor and computer case.
• Locate the bank of audio ports.
• Do you have a USB or PS/2 mouse?
• Do you have a USB or PS/2 keyboard?