Some spyware programs add new shortcuts on your desktop. Browser hijackers actually change your default homepage you selected to a different homepage. Sometimes program won't even allow you to change back to your original homepage.

• Bombarded With Pop-Up Ads

Adware is another common spyware symptom that bombards you with pop-up ads often for adult or other objectionable web sites. Computer hijackers like this have huge system effects and can make your computer completely useless.

• Unwanted Search Results

Computer hijackers can even change results of your web search and suggest websites hijacker wants you to see instead of what you actually searched for. • New Toolbars

Computer browser hijackers can also add new toolbars to Internet Explorer that you did not knowingly install. Sometimes it's next to impossible to remove them.

Spyware dangers have now moved ahead of viruses as number one danger facing computer users today. Quality spyware protection software is designed to find all of these hidden programs and disable them before they have a chance to work.

If you experience even one of these spyware symptoms, your personal information and computer are completely at risk.

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The more memory, better it is. Make sure you can upgrade your computer's memory as and when required.

The RAM chip comes in capacities of 128, 256, 512 MB, even 1 GB. Most computers function efficiently with 256 MB RAM, though a 512 MB RAM does offer you an edge.

Hold off on printer or a software application and other accessories that you really don't need right away. You shouldn't have any problem installing these after original purchase has been made. Just ensure you buy components that are compatible with your system.

3. Should you go for a branded PC or an assembled one?

Assembled machines are popular because they are more economically priced.

Branded PCs cost around 35 to 40% more than their assembled counterparts.

Besides, you can choose your own specifications with assembled PCs. You are not forced to accept a rigid component configuration. You cannot customise a branded PC to suit your exact requirements. Games: http://www.hardwaresoftwarearticles.com/archive/index.php/f-6.html

With same price that you would pay for a branded piece, you will be able to own a superior assembled PC.

Make sure components purchased for assembled PC are original. Take along an informed, reliable assembler to purchase components so that you are not fooled by counterfeit parts.

The advantage of a branded PC is reliability of brand, after sales service and technical support. On flip side, after sales services and repairs offered by brands are a tad expensive and not prompt most times.

Don't forget to look at warranty. Generally, a warranty period of a year is normal for all major parts of PC. But there are good brands that offer either more years or option of an additional payment to top up warranty period.

Talk to your friends and colleagues who have assembled PCs. Ask them about their experience and recommendations on whom to approach. Question them as to what happened when they had a problem. Was individual easy to access? Did he offer prompt service? Does their computer give a lot of trouble?

If possible, meet two or three individuals before you finally zero in on one.

Spend some time on these three issues and you will be all set to buy your very own PC!