How-to Basics Choosing Free Anti-virus Software

Need protection for your PC but don't want to spend anything? Read on...

Unfortunately, we live in a world where it's nearly impossible to connect to other computers and visit websites without picking up nasties that can affect our own computer.

It doesn't matter if you're using Windows, Mac OS, Linux, Android or any other modern operating system; you can guarantee that some little oik out there has developed a bit of code that will vandalise your setup and create untold havoc.

Thankfully, we have anti-virus programs to help combat and prevent such nasties from entering our system, or if they do, they can quickly be quarantined and dealt with. Many of these programs cost a few pounds, and if you're on a tight budget you could be left unprotected. However, there are many that are free to use and are just as good at protecting you as their paid-for relations. The problem, though, is knowing which one to choose.

Laptop batteries explained

They're essential to any laptop, and often a hot topic.

If there's one thing most laptop owners will agree on, it's that they'd all like a better battery. Poor battery life is the number one frustration laptop users have to deal with, and no matter how careful you are, the battery life gets worse and worse the more you use a laptop. Eventually, they fail to hold a charge entirely, meaning you have to shell out for a replacement - no small expense, especially when you haven't done anything with the battery that it wasn't designed for.

But why is that? And why, when processors, memory, hard drives and screens get better and better every year, does it seem like battery technology is standing still? We've looked into it, and while we may not be able to improve laptop batteries for you, at least we can explain them.