The typical home computer is not connected to other computers, except for the internet. But before you assume this to be the case, ask yourself these questions

• Is the computer attached to a printer that other machines can use?
• Does this machine share files with other computers?
• Does this machine PROVIDE an internet connection to other computers?

If not, then how is the computer going to be used? If the main or even a secondary reason for having the computer is to play games, click here. If you want to use ALL of the specialized hardware out there, such as USB devices, TV capture cards, cheap Winmodems, etc, click here.

If the above does not describe you, then ask yourself this -- Do you need to secure this machine against unauthorized access to your files for any reason? If the answer to this question is YES, then click here.

Next, ask yourself this -- is the machine intended for desktop publishing -- in particular do you plan to use Adobe Photoshop -- and are you willing to pay extra to get a machine optimized for this? If yes, then click here.

Now decide if the frequency of crashing that Windows 95/98/Me is known for bothers you. If it does, then click here.

All other users click here.