Saturday 16 March 2013

How to Help Your Parents With Tech - ABC News

The computer is a bit more challenging, but stick to these tips and they should be off on their own in no time.

1. Clear out the desktop. Most PCs come with lots of preloaded programs on the desktop or on the Start Screen in Windows 8. Clear out the clutter and place only the most-used programs on it.

2. Set up the browser with key bookmarks. Chances are a web browser is going to be one of those key apps. Make sure they know how to get to the browser and set their favorite sites as bookmarks. Google's Chrome browser is great for showcasing those favorites, since it displays big icons on the start page.

3. Make sure they are familiar with other programs. Email is another big one. Go through the email basics: sending, writing and reading new messages. Do the same with other key programs.

4. Open, close, minimize windows. This is one of the biggest issues. Ensure that they know how to close programs but also where to locate minimized windows.

5. Set up a remote assistance program. Computers are a big one and you're not likely to cover everything in just a few hours. That's why it's also a good idea to install a remote assistance program like LogMeIn on their computers so you can log into their computer when you're at home to lend a hand from afar. While you are at it, install Skype or another video chat program.

Note: If you're setting someone up with a new Windows 8 comptuer, you'll want to take a look at our 8 things you need to know about using Windows 8 story here.

Remember: Stick to the basics, be patient and, above all, have fun!

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