Now for heavy protection: Virus scanning and virus protection software, and rescue discs are all readily available and easily utilized. Some are free, and others are obtained for a very small charge. Most software manufacturers offer subscriptions for updating services, which automatically download protection to latest viruses.

There are two main types of virus scanning software: one searches through your entire computer files looking for recognizable viral signatures, other scans your incoming and outgoing emails. Alerts will show you when a file needs to be erased or repaired. If you do receive a virus that none of software can repair you can send a copy of it to a company like Symantec who will be happy to develop a cure for it.

The main message here is not to get too worried about your good friend Mrs. PC getting ill or sick. The humans are on top of case and they seem much better adapted at fixing their technology than they are at beating viruses that attack our physical bodies. If only we could cure human virus and illness as easily as we solve problem of computer sickness.

Gaming, Mice, & Internet

The mouse, one of most basic components of modern computers, was created in 1964 by Douglass Engelbart. It obtained its name from "tail" leading out of device.

One of most important aspects of computers today was invented in 1969. ARPA net was original Internet, which provided foundation for Internet that we know today. This development would result in evolution of knowledge and business across entire planet.

It wasn't until 1970 that Intel entered scene with first dynamic RAM chip, which resulted in an explosion of computer science innovation.

On heels of RAM chip was first microprocessor, which was also designed by Intel. These two components, in addition to chip developed in 1958, would number among core components of modern computers.

A year later, floppy disk was created, gaining its name from flexibility of storage unit. This was first step in allowing most people to transfer bits of data between unconnected computers.

The first networking card was created in 1973, allowing data transfer between connected computers. This is similar to Internet, but allows for computers to connect without use of Internet.

Household PC's Emerge

One of most major breathroughs in computer software occurred in 1978 with release of VisiCalc Spreadsheet program. All development costs were paid for within a two week period of time, which makes this one of most successful programs in computer history.

1979 was perhaps one of most important years for home computer user. This is year that WordStar, first word processing program, was released to public for sale. This drastically altered usefulness of computers for everyday user.

The IBM Home computer quickly helped revolutionize consumer market in 1981, as it was affordable for home owners and standard consumers. 1981 also saw the mega-giant Microsoft enter scene with MS-DOS operating system. This operating system utterly changed computing forever, as it was easy enough for everyone to learn.

The Competition Begins : Apple vs. Microsoft

Beyond this point in computer history, many changes and alterations have occurred, from Apple-Microsoft wars, to developing of microcomputers and a variety of computer breakthroughs that have become an accepted part of our daily lives. Without initial first steps of computer history, none of this would have been possible.