Quickstart helps novice computer users get started with computers and browsing the Internet. It is the first section of the book, because we would like you to use the Book Website concurrently with reading the book. The Book Website provides links to the Internet resources mentioned in this book, online tests and many other features.

Quickstart will include the following chapters:

Buying a computer
- Defining your needs
- What to buy
- Sources (local computer store, chain stores, mail order, vendor direct)

Setting up the computer
- What should be in the box
- Major components of the computer
- Rlectricity requirements
- Networking requirements
- Plugging it all together
- Booting up
- Desktop
- What to do if it does not work
- Passwords & security

Getting onto the Internet
- networking requirements (details; types of connections)
- Internet Service Providers (ISPs)
- Comparing ISPs
- Signing up with an ISP
- Getting connected

Accessing and browsing Web pages
- Locating the browser
- Starting the browser
- The browser window
- Accessing Web addresses
- Hyperlinks
- Bookmarks and favorites
- Protecting your computer from threats from the Internet