Category: Technology
Computer Basics: What You Need to Know
Computers are used for everything from sending emails and paying bills to applying for jobs, watching movies, managing photos, and staying connected with other people.
If you’re new to computers, all of the buttons, menus, icons, and unfamiliar terms can make them seem more complicated than they really are.
You don’t need to understand everything a computer can do. Start with a few basic skills, learn where things are, and become comfortable exploring. The more you use a computer, the more familiar it will become.
Understanding the Basic Parts of a Computer
Most computers have the same basic components, even if they look different.
Helpful Resources: Browse Computer & Tablet Accessories for products, equipment, services, or supplies related to this section.
Learn the Basic Mouse Controls
A few simple mouse actions are used constantly.
Understand the Desktop
When your computer starts, you’ll usually see a main screen called the desktop.
Think of it as your computer’s workspace.
The desktop may contain:
- Program icons
- Files
- Folders
- Trash or Recycle Bin
- Taskbar or Dock
- Clock
- Notifications
The exact appearance depends on the type of computer you’re using.
What Is an App or Program?
An app or program is software that allows your computer to perform a particular task.
Examples include programs for:
- Browsing the internet
- Writing documents
- Viewing photos
- Playing music
- Watching videos
- Sending email
- Video calling
You don’t need dozens of programs. Start by learning the ones you use regularly.
What Is a Window?
When you open a program, file, or folder, it usually appears inside a window.
Most windows can be:
- Opened
- Closed
- Moved
- Resized
- Minimized
- Maximized
You can have several windows open at the same time and switch between them.
Files and Folders
Your computer stores information in files.
Examples include:
- Photos
- Documents
- Videos
- Music
- PDFs
Folders help organize those files.
For example, you might have folders named:
- School
- Work
- Bills
- Photos
- Important Documents
Creating simple folders makes information much easier to find later.
Saving Your Work
When you create or change something, make sure it’s saved.
You may see options such as:
- Save
- Save As
- Download
- Export
Pay attention to where the file is being saved.
Common locations include:
- Documents
- Downloads
- Desktop
- Pictures
- Cloud storage
Knowing where you saved something is just as important as saving it.
What Is the Downloads Folder?
When you download something from the internet, it usually goes into a folder called Downloads.
This might include:
- Documents
- Photos
- Forms
- Tickets
- Receipts
- Installation files
If you’ve downloaded something and can’t find it, the Downloads folder is a good place to start looking.
Connecting to the Internet
Most computers connect to the internet using Wi-Fi.
You’ll usually find the Wi-Fi controls near the bottom or top of your screen.
To connect:
- Open the Wi-Fi menu.
- Select your network.
- Enter the Wi-Fi password.
- Choose Connect.
Once connected, your computer can access websites and other online services.
Using a Web Browser
A web browser is the program you use to visit websites.
Common browsers include Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and Safari.
At the top of the browser is an address bar.
You can use it to:
- Enter a website address
- Search the internet
- Search for a question
- Find information
Browsers also allow you to open multiple tabs so you can have several webpages open at once.
Learn Copy and Paste
Copy and paste is one of the most useful computer skills you can learn.
It allows you to move text, links, and other information without typing everything again.
Common keyboard shortcuts are:
Restarting Can Solve a Lot of Problems
If your computer starts behaving strangely, one of the first things to try is restarting it.
Restarting can sometimes fix:
- Frozen programs
- Slow performance
- Connection problems
- Updates that haven’t finished
- Minor software problems
Save your work before restarting whenever possible.
Don’t Ignore Updates
Your computer will occasionally ask to install updates.
Updates can:
- Fix problems
- Improve performance
- Add features
- Protect against security risks
It’s usually a good idea to install updates from your computer’s built-in update system.
Be cautious of unexpected pop-ups on websites claiming that your computer urgently needs an update. When possible, update software through the device or program itself.
Learn the Difference Between Restart and Shut Down
These options sound similar but serve slightly different purposes.
Protect Your Computer
A few simple habits can help keep your computer secure.
- Use a password or PIN to sign in.
- Keep your computer updated.
- Don’t download unfamiliar programs.
- Be cautious when clicking links in unexpected messages.
- Don’t give passwords to other people.
- Lock your computer when you’re away from it in a public or shared space.
You don’t need to become a cybersecurity expert. Good everyday habits provide an important first layer of protection.
Don’t Be Afraid to Explore
One of the best ways to become comfortable with a computer is simply to use it.
Open menus.
Explore settings.
Practice creating folders.
Try keyboard shortcuts.
If you aren’t sure what something does, look it up before changing an important setting.
Most everyday computer mistakes can be corrected.
Computer Basics Checklist
Common Mistakes
Avoid these common mistakes:
- Clicking repeatedly when something doesn’t open immediately.
- Downloading programs from unfamiliar websites.
- Saving files without checking where they’re going.
- Ignoring legitimate computer updates for long periods.
- Keeping every downloaded file forever.
- Turning off the computer while an update is installing.
- Assuming you’ve broken something because the computer isn’t responding.
Computers become much easier to use with practice. Start with the basics, learn one new skill at a time, and don’t worry about knowing everything. Even experienced computer users occasionally have to search for an answer.
Related Guides
- Smartphone Basics
- Understanding Your Device Settings
- Updates, Downloads & Installing Apps
- Using a Web Browser
- Files, Folders & Downloads
- Basic Technology Troubleshooting
Want to become more comfortable with everyday technology?
Alison is an online learning platform offering free courses across a wide range of practical and professional subjects. Alison’s free IT Fundamentals for Beginners course provides beginner-friendly instruction on computers and digital devices, using common interfaces, connecting to the internet, email, online safety, passwords, malware, phishing, privacy, and making secure online payments.
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