Just like using any piece of equipment, you have to think about your health and safety when using computers. This is why it is important to make sure your computer is set–up correctly.

• The monitor is at the correct height, the top line in line with your line of eyesight.
• The chair is at the correct height so your feet are on the floor.
• The screen is at the correct brightness to suit the room you are in.
• The keyboard and mouse are within easy reach.
• Cables are tidied away so they don't clutter up the desk, or get in the way of your legs under the desk.
• Take regular screen breaks so you are not in the same position for long periods of time.

A computer was once a specialist, considered purchase – now it is something you can pick up at the supermarket.

So, this computer you’re thinking of buying – what did you want to do with it, exactly? This is the key question that will help you decide just what sort of computer you will want and how much it will cost.

If the hard drive fails, it’s easy to lose precious photos, videos and emails if they’re only stored on one computer. But there is a way of preventing this from happening to you – by making sure you have backed them up elsewhere. Therefore if the worst happens, you have copies of the lost files safely stored away.

Whenever you visit a website, there is a very slight chance that your computer will be attacked. Security software provides good protection, but does not mean that your PC will never be infected. It pays to be cautious and vigilant when it comes to preventing remote attacks, as our guide explains.

• Keep software up to date : -

It’s important, therefore, to install the monthly updates that Microsoft delivers via its Windows Update service. Click the ‘Start’ button and select ‘Windows Update’. Microsoft’s website will check your PC and recommend a range of updates for you to install. Some are more important than others (you can pick the ones you want), but you should always install the ones marked ‘Critical’.

• Run an anti-virus program : - Install a good antivirus software and keep it up to date.

Never under any circumstances install anti-virus software in response to a pop-up, and never pay for such a program. There are dozens of fake anti-virus programs that pretend to find malware on your PC and - after you have paid up - pretend to remove it. Also, never do business with a company that phones you out of the blue and says it can solve a problem with your PC.

• Turn on your firewall : -

A firewall is a device that increases the security of computers on the internet by controlling the connections that can be made between them.

The firewall sits between your computer and the internet and permits or blocks connections between your PC and other computers on the net, according to rules defined by you. This makes it more difficult to launch attacks on your computer.

• Surf safely:-

No software can completely protect users - but it pays to be careful with what you download and to make sure you have up-to-date software installed to help prevent your computer from being infected.