You can get 256 MB of RAM for about 40 bucks. A couple of places online are crucial.com and kingston.com. Crucial even has an onsite configurator that will tell you EXACTLY what your computer uses.

And don't be afraid of installation. I had never installed ANYTHING before, and I had it installed in under 5 minutes!

So upgrade your computer, and enjoy!

Running disc cleanup, scandisk and defragmenter regularly is a must. Keep your recycle bin emptied, and cache of your browsers cleaned.

Downloading too many programs and files can be a hazard. Games kids like to play require alot of hard drive with their special effects,graphics and colors.

Updating programs help out alot and often results in faster load time, and keeps up with technology. Windows updates are included in start menu. Many programs have updates files included. Another important update is antivirus software. New viruses are discovered every day and your antivirus program needs to cover new and potentially harmful viruses. This is another great way to lose important data and wipe out your whole system.

Email is culprit for unwanted viruses. Never open an email if you do not know where/who it is from and beware of attachments. Always scan your mail before opening,if your unsure of content....DELETE IT!

Starting from scratch is not fun and may take several days to accomplish. Reloading programs back into computer is time consuming and usually requires technical assistance. Check your warranty for additional information. If you are out of warranty, you may have to pay for repairs.

Additional hardware cause problems too, such as a backup unit for power outages,scanners, and printers. Be sure to service these often,check for wear and upgrade when needed.

I have an additional comment for those of you that want to save money, be aware those universal ink printer refills for any printer may not work for your printer. I thought I was saving money and results were a damaged printer,thus repairs. In my case, not only did I get ink all over my hands, ink leaked into my printer from cartridge and caused damage. You are much better off paying for cartridge that goes with printer, than trying to save money and end up paying 3 times cost in repairs. Last but not least....again...Never, ever think your computer is not vulnerable to sickness..Some never recover!