Don't ignore the value of diagnostic software, it can and does solve problems. Spybot is a diagnostic tool that stops your broadband connection being taken over by what's termed as "Spyware" something picked up surfing the web. Basically if your PC starts slowing down,

Check available disk space * Check newly installed software as it may require extra memory.* Check AV software is updated and run virus scan. * Update & run Spybot to target spyware.

Then turn to diagnostic tools they could save you a lot of time & money getting you running at top speed again.

Program errors happen, its a fact of life that programers don't get it right all the time. The error screen normally will always give some clue on the offending software, simply click on details button.

If it's always happening check the software company website, there may be an update available.

Check the web by Goggling it, others may already had the same problem and found the answer.

Try rebooting in case something else has crashed and a knock on effect is causing the problem

Buy and install Anti virus software, McAfee or Norton are considered market leaders. Keep it updated using the auto update setting

Buy and install a software firewall if your budget allows, Zone Alarm is free and good but requires some degree of PC knowledge. Again McAfee, Norton do them out of the box and self configuring. All that’s required is to answer Yes\No when something tries to access internet.

Never download or open any attachment you don't know anything about or who's it from. Golden rules are - If unsure, delete it, - If its from someone you never heard of, delete it. Whatever you do never open files unless you are 110% sure you know what they are.

Hardware failure does happen, CD units pack up as do hard drive's which have a working life of approx. 3 maybe 5 years.

Always have backups of your most important data, better safe than sorry. Never bother backing up folders in "Program Files" these are purely software based, and hold no personal data.

Export your mailbox settings, address books & your email if feasible.

Unless you are technically minded leave almost all hardware updates to the professionals. Memory is easy enough but it only goes in one way, CD drives 4 screws and two cables. Check the internet plenty of good advice even video’s

Other than that simply leave it alone

And just in cast if your PC bursts into flames normally its a write off.

Got a virus problem

Download McAfee Stinger - Emergency tool to remove the very latest virus outbreaks (This is not AV protection its just a quick cure, buy the full product its worth every penny)

File sharing / Downloading / Peer to Peer networking is normally illegal. Face it if you are getting anything for free which you normally expect to pay for it can’t be legal. MP3 downloading is being aggressively targeted now, expect a big fine if caught, and getting caught is easy. No ISP is going to take a hit when all it has to do is grass you up instead. Next the film producers will follow suit and start taking people to court for dowmloading films

OK lecture over, I warned you of the risks but you may still think its worth it.