Latest Laptop How-To Stories
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How-To
Laptop vs. Netbook vs. Smartphone
Work, school, and play: Which portable computer is the do-everything device for you?How-To
Install a Touchscreen in Your Netbook
Tired of your netbook's tiny touchpad? Here's how to install a touchscreen.How-To
Curb PC Annoyances: Windows 7, Office, and Monitor Tips
Here's what to do when Microsoft changes a file format, Office keeps asking you to accept the EULA, and Dell ships you a monitor with a seemingly random cable.How-To
Editing Word Documents on an iPad
Unlike the iPhone and iPod touch, the iPad was designed with the needs of typists in mind. The screen size, the large virtual keyboard in landscape orientation…How-To
The Procrastinator’s Guide to PC Maintenance
You want to keep your PC running smoothly, your apps updated, and your data safe–but you're lazy. Here's how to keep your PC healthy while expending the minimum amount of effort possible.How-To
How to Fix Anything
PCs, printers, smartphones, cameras, networks–your stuff will inevitably stop working. Here's how to troubleshoot and fix your most common tech issues.How-To
How to Mod Your Laptop
Have you ever wanted to liven up your laptop's looks? Here's how to spruce up your portable PC with stickers, paint, fabric, and more.How-To
How to Fix Your Family’s PC Problems
Are you the first line of tech support for your friends and family? Here's everything you need to troubleshoot for the not so tech-savvy.How-To
5 Playful Tech Pranks
Here's how you can play pranks on your family, friends, and coworkers with the tech they use every day–and avoid like-minded mischief makers.How-To
What to Do When You Lose Your Tech Gear
When your cell phone, laptop, or other gear goes missing, these essential tips will improve your odds of recovering it—or ensure that the lost item won’t come back to haunt you.How-To
Long Live Your Laptop Battery!
Keep your laptop battery working for years (and for hours between charges).How-To
Banish Seven Bad Tech Habits
Seven ways to improve your computing life by changing the way you use your computer.How-To
How Not to Shut Down Your Laptop, and Other Tips
Here's how to avoid mucking up Windows, why you should use Hibernate and not Sleep, and info on a Web service that could save your life.How-To
Free Explorer App, Firefox Toolbar, Touchpad Tamer
Simplify your computing life with free tools: Windows Double Explorer, Multirow Bookmarks Toolbar, and TouchFreeze.Hassle-Free PC
Fix a Computer That Won’t Stay Asleep
Behind-the-scenes Internet access could be giving your PC insomnia–especially if it has a wired Ethernet connection. Here's how to keep it asleep.How-To
Laptop Buying Guide: Shopping Tips
If you're ready to buy a new laptop, these handy tips will help you select the perfect portable.How-To
Laptop Buying Guide: Making Sense of the Specifications
Shopping for a laptop, but unsure about the features you need? Here are the most important laptop specs to consider.How-To
Laptop Buying Guide: Selecting the Right Laptop for You
Whether you want a compact netbook, a beefy desktop replacement, or an all-purpose laptop, our advice will help you make the best choice.Hassle-Free PC
Raise Your WIndows IQ: Learn Your Laptop’s Power Settings
Don't fall victim to your PC's unreliable standby mode. Instead, do like bears do, and choose hibernation.How-To
Disaster-Proof Your PC: Image Your Drive, Make a Backup Plan
Here's how to prepare for disaster by imaging your hard drive and setting up a data backup system.
Mobile Computing
The Carpal Tunnel Survival Guide
Using a laptop can be painful–follow these ergonomic tips to avoid RSI and other problems.
How-To
Hardware Tips: New Use for an Old Laptop, and More
Turn a laptop into a second display, force a stubborn disc tray to open, and solve an iPhone sync problem.How-To
Speed Up Everything
Is your PC dragging? Does your broadband network creep along at dial-up speeds? Do Web pages take forever to load on your smartphone? Don't wait! These fixes will get you back into the fast lane.Mobile Computing
In-Flight Entertainment on a Netbook
Here's how to make the most of a low-powered PC, be it a netbook or humbly equipped business machine.Hassle-Free PC
Should You Use Standby or Hibernate?
Most laptops give you a choice, but which mode works best, and why? Answers coming up.Hassle-Free PC
Are You Neglecting Your Windows Key?
A tap of the Windows key takes you to the Start menu, where–in Vista and 7–you can start typing to dynamically search for apps, files, e-mail, and the like.Tech Audit
Virtualization Revs Up Small Business
How a new virtualization system turbocharged a Vancouver Volkswagen dealership.Net Work
Big Decision: Upgrade to Windows 7 or Just Buy a New PC?
A quick guide to deciding whether to upgrade, or just buy a new PC.Answer Line
Add WiFi to a Very Old Laptop
Raul Maristany wants to add WiFi to aging laptop. Is it possible?How-To
Ten Ways to Upgrade Your Netbook
Netbook hacks range from the absurdly achievable to the electronically expert. Here's how to turn your simple netbook into a powerful portable PC.Mobile Computing
High-Speed Internet on a Plane: Where to Find It
Which airlines are most likely to keep you connected in the sky? Find out in our update.How-To
7 Backup Strategies for Your Data, Multimedia, and System Files
Nobody likes backing up, but one day, it’ll save your bacon. Here are the most efficient methods of protecting your stuff, no matter what your situation.
Mobile Computing
Recharging Laptops, Netbooks, Gadgets Abroad
Here's what you need to know if you're traveling with a laptop, netbook, GPS device, or other portable gadget.
How-To
Laptop Q&A: Power Off Quickly, Fix Sticky Keys
What do you do when your laptop won't turn off? And how can you fix sticky, broken keys? Rick Broida has the answers.Hassle-Free PC
Why Won’t My Laptop’s Power LED Turn Off?
A blinking power button doesn't necessarily indicate a problem. In fact, it might be a normal function.Answer Line
Your Laptop and International Travel
Gmartin12 asked the Answer Line forum for advice before talking a notebook overseasHassle-Free PC
Speed Up Your Windows XP Netbook
Tired of your pokey performance from your petite PC? A simple Windows tweak can goose its operation.How-To
Windows 7: Five Unique Features
Is Windows 7 necessary? Yes, because some of its improved features simply aren't available for Vista or XP. Here are five reasons you'll eventually want to step up to Windows 7.How-To
Get Windows 7 Performance on Your Current PC
Windows 7 promises quicker boot-ups, slick tools, and better looks. Here’s how to get the new OS's top features on your current Vista or XP PC without taking a chance on beta software or waiting for the final version of Windows 7 to arrive.How-To
Windows 7 Features on a Vista or XP System
Windows 7 features like ISO image burning, Windows Search, and the great new Windows 7 Calculator are a big part of the new OS. Here's how you can get them–or features just as good–on your current Vista or XP system.Linux Line
DIY Netbook Linux
There are a variety of netbook distros out there, but you can have a little fun creating your own. Here's how.Hassle-Free PC
Fix a Laptop’s Sticky, Broken Keys
Don't consign your laptop to the scrap heap just because it has a worn-out keyboard. You may be able to replace it with a few bucks and a few minutes.Mobile Computing
Navigating Return Policies for Netbooks and Mobile Gear
Here's how to shop more carefully and avoid having to return tech items–and paying restocking fees.The Cost Cutter
Check Out On Hotel Wi-Fi Fees
A simple Wi-Fi finder utility can sniff out open networks for a free alternative to hotel Internet fees.Hassle-Free PC
Fix a Noisy, Overheated Laptop
Excessive dust can cause laptops to run loud and run hot. Grab a screwdriver and some compressed air to fix this problem in three minutes.Mobile Computing
Netbooks, Kindles, GPS: Avoiding Instant Buyer’s Remorse
It's easy to feel burned after you buy a new laptop, netbook, GPS, or other mobile device–here's why.The Cost Cutter
Keep Laptops and Phones Powered for Productive Travel
When your gadgets conk out, you're paying for it. Follow these tips to keep them charged.Hassle-Free PC