When it comes to buying a cell phone there are several ways to compare makes and models. Just like when buying a car, there are countless options, models and prices from which to choose. Talking to a sales rep in a cell store seems to be a good way to compare phones, but that is not always case. They are going to try to steer you towards a certain brand or model because their commission may depend on it, and they may have limited knowledge of various manufacturers and service providers.

Checking online reviews from customers is a great way to research cell phones. Doing research in magazines such as Consumer Reports will probably give you some valuable information about specific models. Talking to friends is always a reliable way to research different products. Since most of your friends and family probably have a cell phone, you'll be able to get reliable information about phone models and service plans. You can learn from their mistakes or follow their lead and use what they're using.

Once you have your phone, next step is choosing a service provider or carrier. You need not rush into anything when choosing a cellular phone provider. Remember when there was only one phone company? Thanks in part to technology, cellular phone providers are working hard to improve service and reception in all areas. There is now so much competition, that with just a little research, you can find exact plan that specifically fits your needs. Are there major concerns about a service provider other than price? According to Consumer Reports, dropped calls and misleading billing are leading irritants for cell phone customers.

The importance of cell phones has increased competition in wireless service provider industry, making cell phones affordable, dependable and easy to use. Cell phones have gone from an elite status symbol to a reliable convenience which provides information and security.

With exponential increase in number of people using cell phones, it is more important to understand how to use your phone without being obnoxious or irritating. For example, it is a good idea to put your cell phone on vibrate (rather than ring) when in restaurants, theaters, churches, weddings and funerals. As for ring tones, not everyone appreciates being bombarded with Creedance Clearwater Revival or Beethoven's Fifth Symphony. Suggestion-- use vibrate feature in all public places.

The good news is that computer users can prevent spyware installation, readily detect that which is already installed, and easily delete it from that system. Experts from FTC and across technology industry offer these suggestions: update your operating system and Web browser software; download free software only from sites you know and trust; do not install any software without knowing EXACTLY what it is; minimize "drive-by" downloads; don't click on any links within pop-up windows; and install a dependable personal firewall to stop uninvited guests from accessing your computer.

If you think your computer may have spyware on it, experts advise that you take three steps. First, get an anti-spyware program from a vendor you know and trust. Next, set it to scan on a regular basis--at least once a week--or perhaps even once a day. Finally, delete any software programs anti-spyware detects.

A specific type of Spyware is referred to as "Adware"--advertising supported software. Like Spyware, Adware will usually install components on your computer that will send marketing information whenever you are online. Unlike Spyware, however, Adware contains a disclosure telling you that they will be using your information. It is VERY important to read privacy policy when downloading Adware.

Run a systems check on your computer, use common sense when downloading from unknown Internet sites and invest in some reliable Spyware blocker software. Best wishes for safe surfing!