Learn instantly from step-by-step graphics!

We know a picture is worth a thousand words--so we went heavy on pictures and light on words in this easy-to-use guide. Color screenshots and brief instructions show you how to manage, customize, and troubleshoot your desktop or laptop PC. Follow along and learn to install and configure hardware and software, manage files, access the Internet, set up a home network, secure your PC, and much more. Each chapters “How to” list and color-coded thumb tabs make it easy to flip straight to the tasks you need to do. Get the book that gets you up and running on your PC right away.

In each chapter:

• Shortcuts for accomplishing common tasks
• Need-to-know facts in concise narrative
• Helpful reminders or alternate ways of doing things
• Bonus information related to the topic being covered
• Errors and pitfalls to avoid
• Screenshots with callouts show and explain exactly what youll see on your computer screen while youre doing a task

Guy Hart-Davis is the author of more than 30 computer books, including Windows XP and Office 2003 Keyboard Shortcuts, Windows XP Professional: The Complete Reference, and Mac OS X Panther QuickSteps.

"PC QuickSteps" provides a brief overview combined with ready reference material and simplified tutorials, like a recipe book for computer users. Introductory and explanatory texts are kept to just the essentials users need to know. The book focuses on just the steps users need to immediately accomplish their goals. Full-color.

Guy Hart-Davis (Barnard Castle, UK) is the author of more than 50 computer books including CNET Do-It-Yourself iPod Projects, all editions of How to Do Everything: iPod and iTunes, and Mac OS X Leopard QuickSteps.

Chapter 1: Getting to Know Your PC

Chapter 2: Working with Windows XP

Chapter 3: Connecting to and Using the Internet

Chapter 4: Installing and Using Programs

Chapter 5: Installing and Using Audio and Video

Chapter 6: Upgrading, Installing, and Con¿ guring Hardware

Chapter 7: Securing Your PC

Chapter 8: Setting Up a Home Network

Chapter 9: Getting Maximum Use out of Your Laptop PC

Chapter 10: Troubleshooting Hardware