A computer is as much part of the writer’s kit today as a typewriter was for a previous generation. But what do you really need?
One of the frequent questions is Mac or PC? At one level this is a simple question to answer, at another it is not. The simple answer is that it does not matter. Both can run well and Microsoft Word is available for both.
The more complex answer about which to buy depends a lot on you. Macintosh computers work well, have few virus problems and have a great and pretty simple interface. Windows PCs also work well but, as we all know, there are lots of virus and other malware problems Windows. What this means is that you need to spend time (and money) to install and maintain virus, spyware and trojan protection on your Windows machine to keep it healthy and running well. You also need to run regular scanning for virus infections. This can happen manually or automatically, but it will slow your machine down when it is running.
I run both Mac and PC computers and have for many years. I find that my Macs just work properly whilst I have to work harder to keep my Windows machines running. That is my view. So for people new to computers who just want to get work done I advise them to have a look at a Mac. But if you have a Windows machine already, stick with it. Just make sure you have a good anti-virus program installed with a maintenance agreement for automatic virus updates, and keep it valid. There is a price premium on a Mac, but you do get a lot for the money.
Word processing doesn’t stress a computer much, so even an old computer is ok for writing. But older computers will have issues with reliability, hooking up a decent and recent printer, networking, running recent software, etc. I’m steering people to laptops these days, as they are compact, easily stored and very convenient to work with. I like writing in the garden on nice days, in the lounge on others and in the office, plus out at cafes, etc. I’ve also put in a wireless network at home so that I have an Internet connection throughout the house and garden (my laptop has it built in). Adding a home wireless connection will cost you under $100 provided you laptop has it built in, so you are just buying the access point.
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