• Most troubleshooting books concentrate on upgrading-and usually hardware at that. This book concentrates on solving problems-whether they are software, hardware, or operating system problems. The problems are the ones that Dan Gookin hears most often-the most frequently mentioned problems from his readers.
• Provides the background to understanding the differences between hardware and software errors and learning about the computer's startup sequence to help diagnose and fix common startup problems.
• Fix irritable error messages, slow PCs, internet and email problems, shutdown errors, and other common PC problems.
• Covers not only common disk problems, but also concentrates on using disk tools to improve disk performance, and preventative maintenance techniques.
• Techniques to avoid disaster: system restore, backup, disk cleanup, and virus protection.
• Tools and utilities provided by Windows to help troubleshoot your computer.

Review

you can be sure it will contain the up-to-date, comprehensive information (Personnel Today, March 2005)

consistently reassuringdetailed explanations (Computer Active, 15 May 2003)

From the Back Cover

The fun and easy way(TM) to diagnose the problem and get your computer back up and running

Solve all types of PC problems - hardware and software

Got a PC headache? Let Dan Gookin show you how to find relief

Funny start-up noises. Lost files. Mouse madness. Slowdowns. Web weirdness. Disk disasters. The dreaded blue screen of death. If you're beset by PC problems like these, you've come to the right place. PC expert extraordinaire Dan Gookin shows you step by step how to prevent PC calamities, deal with dozens of common mishaps and annoyances - and preserve your sanity.

The Dummies Way
Explanations in plain English
"Get in, get out" information
Icons and other navigational aids
Tear-out cheat sheet
Top ten lists
A dash of humor and fun