WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN COMPUTER HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE?

Hardware is the actual computer itself - the things you can hold feel and touch - Software is the collective name for the programs installed inside that make it run and do what you want it to do.

Some people often ask why computers are so complicated compared to games machines such as Sony Play Stations or Nintendo Wiis - the answer is simple - a computer can do so much more, but needs to be told HOW to do it.

A computer needs an operating system that adapts to its user, and new technology as it is developed.  A games console in its basic form only has one task to do, and therefore is much simpler.

AVG FREE ANTI VIRUS ** provides an easy way to scan your computer regularly and make sure it is not infected.  The program updates itself each time you turn on your computer and go online.

COMMODO INTERNET SECURITY ** is a FIREWALL that does its best to stop nasty things coming in, or other computers spying on what you are doing.

** Do not attempt to run more than one anti-virus or firewall program on your computer * *

SPYBOT SEARCH & DESTROY gets rid of other nasty things that standard anti-virus programs don’t usually find.

CCLEANER - Every time you browse the internet, or write a letter, or design or move something, temporary files are stored on your computer’s hard drive (the disk inside it that everything is stored on.)  After a while the system gets clogged up with the temporary files - and slows down.  Ccleaner is a fantastic program that clears the “rubbish.” It has other features like an uninstaller and safe registry cleaner too! (Think of a computer’s registry as if it was its brain!)

DEFRAGGLER is made by the same company that makes Ccleaner- ALL the information on your computer gets splattered all over the hard drive the more you use your computer - if you “defrag” it and line it all up again, the computer runs MUCH faster

Swedos recommends the software on this page to help you get the most from your computer.  The links lead to the relevant pages on “Filehippo.com” which is a website that provides access to the latest versions of many programs.  You will need to SAVE the files you download from FileHippo to your computer, then RUN them to install the programs.

* All the programs listed here are totally FREE to install and use.  Remember that free programs  tend to be re-active rather than pro-active.  You can automate some functions but its your responsibility to ensure you update Windows and other programs, and scan regularly.

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