If you are considering to buy laptops, then here are certain factors, which you need to consider. Student laptops need to possess certain element. It will make the chosen laptop suitable for students.

The first thing that you need to consider is the sturdiness of a laptop. The student environment is usually harsh as well as unpredictable. Hence, you require a sturdy and brawny laptop. The covering of the student laptop ought to have a protective covering. Simply make sure that the laptop you choose can sustain bumps as well as drops. Also, make sure that your laptop has security features, so that you can locate it if it is stolen.

Secondly, consider the portability of the laptop. If you have to use the laptop in classroom more often, then check for its battery life. An ideal laptop need to have a battery that can work for long hours. It has to be sleek, compact and need to fit in backpack or under your arm. Next, make sure that the laptop has sufficient wireless connections, because the Internet has now become the most valuable tool in student’s life.

Another imperative factor that you need to check is the performance of the laptop. Select the one, which offers adequate performance as well as power so that you can perform your computing tasks with ease.

Check The Technical Factors of Student Laptops:

Laptops are available in present days are par with desktop computer pertaining to performance.

CPU/Processor:

CPU (central processing unit) or processor is the most significant part of any laptop or computer. You need to check the power as well as speed of the laptop before buying it. Most laptops have in built dual core processor, which are capable to furnish the most challenging computing tasks.

RAM (Random Access Memory)

RAM is also one of the imperative element present in laptop, it determines as how fast your laptop will perform. Therefore, if your RAM has higher bit, you will be able to perform the tasks faster. That means it is a 32-bit unit, it will use up 4 GB RAM and if it is a 64-bit system, it uses 8 GB or more of RAM strength.

If you wish to run Windows XP, then the RAM strength needs to be around 128MB or more than that. If you wish more optimal performance, then opt for 512 MB RAM. Whereas, if you wish to use Linux as OS (Office System), then your student laptop can work nicely even on 4MB RAM.

Graphics Card/GPU:

If you study graphics and store and make plenty of graphics on the laptop, then you will have to install graphics card in your laptop. Next, if you want high graphics performance, then you may install high-end card, or else opt for dual graphics data card.

Laptop Display:

The display of a laptop is also an important thing that you need to consider before buying it. Most students choose laptops, which have convertible or cross-filed displays, so that they can take down notes easily on such laptops. Thus, select a laptop, which meets all your educational requirements.
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For those wanting to buy netbooks, one of the main considerations is the built-in Operating System of the netbook. Out in the market you can buy either a Linux or Windows XP version of the same netbook model from the same manufacturer. This is especially true for Asus Eee netbooks, where there is always a Windows XP and a Linux version.

So, which netbook should you choose? If you’re going after price and stability of the system, you would much rather have Linux netbook. If you’re buying any model of Asus Eee netbook, you best bet for finding a really cheap one is to buy a Linux-based model.

Linux Netbooks

Linux is a free and open-source operating system that runs well on old PCs and less powerful computers like mini laptops. Linux users swear by the reliability of Linux netbooks? they boot quickly, usually don’t crash and are compatible with free and open source software.

Not surprisingly, since it is open source, many Linux operating systems come in different varieties and customizations. Many versions (also called distributions) of the Linux OS come bundled with their own set of applications. Many netbook manufacturers develop their own software on Linux-operated netbooks. If you want to buy a Linux netbook, check with your manufacturer what customizations were made on the user interface.

The Asus Eee 900, for example, operates on Xandros Linux. Features are categorized and made accessible through tabbed interface. You can access Open Office and PDF reader on the tab for Work, while games and media players can be accessed on the Play tab. Users can even access corporate emails through a Microsoft Outlook Web Access.

Windows XP

Windows XP netbooks have a standard user interface, and you can operate your Windows netbook as easily as you did your desktop PC. The issues with Windows XP is that it is prone to malware such as trojans and viruses although Microsoft has improved Windows XP since its debut and that it is a more resource intensive operating system than Linux. On the positive side, Windows XP, while older, uses significantly less resources than Vista and can still run fast on a mini laptop.

Windows XP, however, remains a popular OS among computer users. The main advantage of Windows XP over Linux is that a lot of the useful software like Adobe Photoshop are written for Windows and can only be used on a Windows-based computer.

Netbook is the novel and hottest craze in portable computing, as lugging a 17“ laptop everywhere can be neatly replaced by buying an ultra portable netbook. Conversely, shopping for a netbook is best by following some buying tips.

Identifying computing needs: This is an immense factor worth considering and needs proper thinking and planning about using the netbook and the related software that you need. This depends on the fact about using it for web surfing or checking email or doing some serious jobs such as video editing or graphic designing. Netbook is appropriate for lower intensive tasks that comprises of web browsing, email checking and replying, besides office applications. A netbook with full size is recommended for jobs that are processor intensive.

Portability features: Carrying a netbook around involves comprehending the size and weight as the main factor. Netbook is available in plenty of sizes, but definitely is tiny and weights less in comparison to the bulky laptops. The portability features certainly is favorable only when the netbook is light in weight and small in size. The battery size and weight also requires to be considered as some power adaptors come heavy and large in size.

Comprehending the storage types: Types of netbook available in the market should be comprehended as it helps in selecting the desired to suit the needs and wants of the buyer. Netbook comes in SSD and HDD storage types such that SSD, the Solid State Drives boot faster, possess withstanding impact and is a bit faster in performance, but is notorious for low storage. Contrarily, HDD, the Hard Disk Drives netbook stores up to 160GB data, but are weaker withstanding impacts in comparison to their counterparts, SSD. Buying a fast netbook with less storage capacity or a netbook offering high capacity, but is slow in booting depends completely on the desire and need of the buyer.

Considering the netbook`s brand: Considering the brand before purchasing is essential as the market today is filled with numerous brands of netbooks. However, good brands such as ASUS certainly carry high repute, and are followed by many more manufacturers of netbook such as Acer, Dell, HP, Lenovo and MSI. These manufacturers vary in their signatures and a buyer should know these details prior to purchase, such as ASUS have small keyboards. It is necessary to know the different brand netbooks as well as their differences, and this can be understood by researching in the internet with patience.

Operating system: Similar to the desktop computers having Mac and Windows as operating system competitors, the netbook has Windows XP and Linux for competition. The netbook models are shipped by different manufacturers with an operating system, and hence every netbook is either featured with a Windows XP or Linux version. However, Linux version netbooks are well-known for their security and stability, while the Windows XP netbooks have gained the topmost popularity. Compatibility of versions is a must and hence a buyer usually opts for Windows XP netbook, as it is tough to switch paradigms facilitating Linux.

Reading reviews: User reviews play a vital role in determining the performance of some netbooks. Manufacturers do not leave any opportunity in hyping their product so that their sales are boosted. But, reading the reviews will assist in knowing the value or the rundown of a netbook model. Reading independent reviews of products offered in online computer magazines and searching the internet for more reviews will give valuable information about a product to be purchased.

Comparison: Settling for a shopping website at the first attempt is not recommended. Comparing prices from minimum three or five netbook sellers is the best before placing the order. Comparison is required as some websites offer the netbooks cheaper as they deal on wholesale orders, while others do the same and sell second hand netbooks. If buying online, make sure the you are dealing with a trusted website.


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HP is really putting a lot of effort to be the no 1 low cost net book provider. Thanks to the currently booming net book market. At the recent CES in Las Vegas, HP unveiled their latest addition to the great net book arena.

Yes. HP announced that their latest HP Mini 2140 model will be made available very soon. Keeping true with their previous model, HP Mini 2133, the new 2140 is built on the same material as the 2133. That means the 2140 will also be built on a solid magnesium alloy chassis, as with the older 2133.

Cool. None of the flimsy plastic stuff. Personally, I like it better this way. With netbooks being small in size, they are more prone to physical abuse. This is especially true if you carry them around with you in your daily travels. As such, a more sturdy and strong build material is always a welcome improvement.

The only downside to the strong and sturdy build is its’ weight. It surely weights a lot more than the other net books built on them flimsy plastic material. The 2140 unit weighs about 3.0 pounds with full accessories. That makes it the heaviest netbook around. Oh well, you can’t win them all, I guess.

The HP Mini 2140 also sports probably the largest keyboard in the low cost net book range. At 92% of a standard keyboard, you would surely be able to adapt quickly to the keyboard. It even has a full sized right shift key located right below the enter key. Nothing awkward about the keyboard.

The keys are also protected with HP Durakeys. HP DuraKeys? Its a clear coating that protects the finish and printed characters on the keys. The keyboard will be look new even after years of heavy typing.

I do, however, have a beef with the mouse pad, though. Somehow, having the mouse buttons on either sides of the mouse pad really doesn’t jive with me. I would have liked it better if they had decided to put the mouse buttons at the bottom as with a normal mouse pad.

I’ve always been somewhat frustrated that these net books can only display to a max resolution if 1024×600. To those who like to have more pixels in their display, the HP Mini 2140 unit has got two display modes – 1024×576 and 1366×768. Odd resolutions? Yes. They are a bit odd. I think HP decided to make the display fit in a 16:9 aspect ratio. Why? To conform to HDTV standard perhaps?

Following are the hardware specifications for the HP Mini 2140:

CPU: Intel Atom Processor N270 (1.60 GHz, 512 KB L2 cache, 533 MHz FSB)

Chipset: Mobile Intel® 945GSE Express

Memory: 1 GB 800 MHz DDR2 SDRAM (Max 2GB)

Hard Drive: 160GB 5400/7200 rpm SATA; 80GB Solid State Drive

Display: 10.1-inch diagonal HP Illumi-Lite LED SD; 10.1-inch diagonal Illumi-Lite LED HD

Graphics: Mobile Intel GMA950

Integrated Camera: VGA Camera

Ports: 2 USB 2.0; 1 mic in; 1 headphone/line-out; 1 VGA out; 1 RJ-45

Slots: 1 Express Card/54; 1 secure digital

Audio: High Definition Audio, stereo speakers

Networking: Marvell Ethernet Integrated Controller (10/100/1000)

Wireless: Broadcom 802.11a/b/g/draft-n; Broadcom 802.11b/g; HP Integrated Module with Bluetooth 2.0 Wireless Technology

Battery: 3-cell (28 WHr) high capacity Lithium-Ion; 6-cell (55 WHr) high capacity Lithium-Ion.

What else? That’s basically the gist of it. I’d say the main benefit of getting this new HP Mini 2140 would be the better screen resolution. No matter how odd the display resolution is, 1366×768 is certainly a lot better than just 1024×600 which is like the de facto standard for netbook screen resolution.

Nothing much separate the current netbooks from one another. For the most part, they are all created almost equal since they are mostly built on the same Intel Atom chipsets. This new HP Mini 2140 tries to differentiate itself from the rest by the means of the display resolution. So, if you want something different, this HP 2140 unit is certainly worth looking at.
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Antivirus Software is one of those crucial programs that you always need in your computer, especially if your computer is connected over a external network. They are in great demand today as the threats keep increasing with each passing second. It has become an essential part of all Computers.

Viruses: What are the dangers?

Viruses are one of those malicious programs written by specific people called hackers who have the intention of destroying personal data and destroy the computer working peace and then goes on to irritate the users. Each day at least a million users complain that their PC has got affected with viruses. Also these viruses are so malicious that they can sometime destroy the operating system as well. So care has now been taken and steps to reduce the viruses and increasing the security of the computers worldwide has started already in the form of Antivirus Programs which are provided by many reputed companies like McAfee, Symantec and a lot more corporate companies.

Why we need them?

Antivirus Programs have become a must for all those computers connected to the internet as there is an increased threat of computers losing to the strength of viruses. The companies offering these services know fully well the importance of protecting the computer user’s personal data. Also they are used to remove other types of malicious programs like Spy ware, Mal ware as well.

Which is the best one in the Market?

If we look at the best of Antivirus programs, then many will say it is Norton from Symantec which has earned a name for itself as being the number one. However there are many other reputed ones in the market as well in the brand name McAfee, Kaspersky, Bit defender and so on. It is up to the buyer to make a wise decision of buying the correct Antivirus software for his home or his office computer.

Most savvy computer users are extremely aware of both spyware and viruses. Both weave their way along the internet and into your computer without your knowledge. You may have heard spyware referred to as snoop ware, adware or crime ware. Spyware is notorious at entering your computer through sites that you visit with the assumption that the only thing that you are downloading is needed or requested information, and viruses can do the same. Spyware, once in your system can monitor your activities, collect data and return this information to its creators. At best your activities are reported, at worst your personal information is compromised and may be hijacked. Viruses are simply waiting to destroy your system; they can do this slowly in an inch by inch dance or explosively, as in the case of some of the more lethal computer viruses that have been seen. Both of these types of programs are very insidious and spyware itself is becoming more and more difficult to detect. Because of the damage that these programs can inflict upon your computer system, you need to have protection against both of these malevolent enemies.

You are familiar with the drill by now, your computer is functioning slower time to check things out. Chances are good that you are going to find your computer an unwilling host to spyware, and most likely not just one, but multiple cases of this unwanted pests. Nine out of 10 of every PC today that is connected to the internet is infected with one or more forms of spyware. Spyware will often have to be manually uninstalled and this is one of the more time-consuming jobs you will ever be faced with. The best way to prevent this from happening to you is to protect yourself with protective programs that are specifically designed to be anti-spyware and anti-virus. There are dozens of this type of program on the market and you can choose to buy them and install them yourself or they can be downloaded from a reputable and trusted site.

When you are looking for a spyware/anti-virus program for your computer you need to be sure that it is user friendly and interfaces easily. It should have regular automated modes of updates that allow it to keep abreast of the newest forms of threats. It should be able to stop the threat in its tracks and not allow it in to your computer at all. In other words, you should be able to browse safely without worrying about any sort of infection. You will have to carefully read the descriptions of all anti-virus software which you are considering in order making the choice best for you. The highest priced anti-viral package may not be any better in performance than a more modestly priced one. Remember, the free ones that are often advertised do not generally have a great deal of the qualities that you need for the best protection.

You really can get a free netbook for students if you search online. Skip over the easy or stupid ways, which in involve working, begging, spending your own money, or time. Wouldn’t you much rather find one online that you can get with about an hour of work?

I know I would, going to school, while it has it’s advantages, is also tough. No matter what people think, trying to work while in college, university, or in high school, is very hard work. If you have to work while trying to complete all your studies, it is the one of the hardest things you can imagine. That is why I am bringing you an easier way to find a free laptop or netbook. I completely recommend a laptop over a netbook because the smaller versions of a laptop are severely lacking in performance, which means they can hardly run such things as even Microsoft Office. The public must realize that these small computers are strictly to be used for the internet… but they have not caught on yet.

What I recommend for your free student netbook is to complete freebie websites. These you have probably seen in the past, but they actually do work. There may be a few bad eggs, just as with any other company, but I have personally received 6 free laptops. I pretty much know which ones to recommend, and that is why the ones below are good. You just need to fill out your information and complete the survey, send in the forms, and within 8 weeks, you could very well be onto your first freebie online!
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