10 secrets that’ll make you a computer genius

I’m here to confirm something you have suspected for a long time. There are secrets, used by the tech elite, that make using a computer simple and painless.

Because the nerds know the secret, they go around with obnoxious and serene smiles all the time.

TECHNOBUDDY

E-mail Bill Husted

Related:
• Bill's computer tips
• More Business news

More Technobuddy

• When repairs are in order, replacing may be cheaper 
• Shocks, dirt, heat, impact can all kill your computer 
• 10 secrets that'll make you a computer genius 
• Got an old computer? Use it for spare parts 
• Some PC fixes don't require special skills 

These secrets are closely held because, if generally known, the propeller heads of the world would lose one of their few advantages over normal folk. But, at great personal risk, I’m going to reveal these insider secrets to you. Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of these tips — like a lot of life’s truths they only become obvious once they are understood.

So here are my secrets of computing:

1. Computers get the hiccups. These are tiny one-time glitches that cause screen freezes, odd error messages and frustrating problems. Most often, these hiccups will go away on their own. Trying to fix these glitches can cause more harm than good. So, wait a bit, see if a problem is persistent before attempting to diagnose and fix it.

2. Please know and understand that “fixing” is the No. 1 cause of computer problems. Spend some time reading and asking questions before any do-it-yourself fix or installation job. Only start when you are sure you know what you’re doing.

3. Turning a computer off and restarting it cures most ills. Before you start calling 1-800 help lines, try this. Simply turn the computer off, let it sit, then turn it on again. If it works fine after you’ve restarted it, don’t worry about what went wrong. (This off/on trick also can restore a lost DSL or cable connection. Turn the modem off, let it sit for a moment and turn it back on.)

4. The Web is a great place to get help — there are sites that can produce fast and amazingly effective answers to most of your computer problems. The Web also is a horrible place to get help — there are sites filled with cures that don’t work. Before you try a tip from the Web, cross-check it by continuing your search. If several reputable sites agree, your chances of avoiding disaster increase.

5. If a car won’t start, a good mechanic will make sure it isn’t out of gas before rebuilding the engine. It’s the same with computers. The most likely cause of a problem is the most obvious. If the computer won’t start, make sure it’s plugged in. If there’s no sound from the speakers, make sure they are turned on. Computers have the innate ability to make fools of us all.

6. Viruses and spyware are real. They’re also often the scapegoat. Sometimes a problem is caused by a virus, but by blaming these guys too early you avoid considering other possible causes of the problem.

7. There’s no shame in admitting that a problem is beyond your technical ability. Sometimes the best tool for fixing a computer is a credit card. Use it at a reputable repair shop when you’re in over your head.

8. There are too many people in the world who call themselves computer experts. That’s often a dangerous illusion. Many of your friends are willing, downright eager, to work on your computer. View their confidence and passion with caution. View your own confidence with the same skepticism.

9. Read the manuals that came with your computer and software. I realize most manuals are not as good as they should be. But they often offer information that will help you avoid problems.

10. Don’t get in a big hurry when things go wrong. A quick fix often makes for a long repair period.

These are simple tips — no screwdrivers, no batteries required. Now that you know them you can plant a serene and obnoxious smile on your face.