Latest Laptop How-To Stories
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How-To
Disaster-Proof Your PC: Image Your Drive, Make a Backup Plan
Here's how to prepare for disaster by imaging your hard drive and setting up a data backup system.
Mobile Computing
The Carpal Tunnel Survival Guide
Using a laptop can be painful–follow these ergonomic tips to avoid RSI and other problems.
How-To
Hardware Tips: New Use for an Old Laptop, and More
Turn a laptop into a second display, force a stubborn disc tray to open, and solve an iPhone sync problem.How-To
Speed Up Everything
Is your PC dragging? Does your broadband network creep along at dial-up speeds? Do Web pages take forever to load on your smartphone? Don't wait! These fixes will get you back into the fast lane.Mobile Computing
In-Flight Entertainment on a Netbook
Here's how to make the most of a low-powered PC, be it a netbook or humbly equipped business machine.Hassle-Free PC
Should You Use Standby or Hibernate?
Most laptops give you a choice, but which mode works best, and why? Answers coming up.Hassle-Free PC
Are You Neglecting Your Windows Key?
A tap of the Windows key takes you to the Start menu, where–in Vista and 7–you can start typing to dynamically search for apps, files, e-mail, and the like.Tech Audit
Virtualization Revs Up Small Business
How a new virtualization system turbocharged a Vancouver Volkswagen dealership.Net Work
Big Decision: Upgrade to Windows 7 or Just Buy a New PC?
A quick guide to deciding whether to upgrade, or just buy a new PC.Answer Line
Add WiFi to a Very Old Laptop
Raul Maristany wants to add WiFi to aging laptop. Is it possible?How-To
Ten Ways to Upgrade Your Netbook
Netbook hacks range from the absurdly achievable to the electronically expert. Here's how to turn your simple netbook into a powerful portable PC.Mobile Computing
High-Speed Internet on a Plane: Where to Find It
Which airlines are most likely to keep you connected in the sky? Find out in our update.How-To
7 Backup Strategies for Your Data, Multimedia, and System Files
Nobody likes backing up, but one day, it’ll save your bacon. Here are the most efficient methods of protecting your stuff, no matter what your situation.
Mobile Computing
Recharging Laptops, Netbooks, Gadgets Abroad
Here's what you need to know if you're traveling with a laptop, netbook, GPS device, or other portable gadget.
How-To
Laptop Q&A: Power Off Quickly, Fix Sticky Keys
What do you do when your laptop won't turn off? And how can you fix sticky, broken keys? Rick Broida has the answers.Hassle-Free PC
Why Won’t My Laptop’s Power LED Turn Off?
A blinking power button doesn't necessarily indicate a problem. In fact, it might be a normal function.Answer Line
Your Laptop and International Travel
Gmartin12 asked the Answer Line forum for advice before talking a notebook overseasHassle-Free PC
Speed Up Your Windows XP Netbook
Tired of your pokey performance from your petite PC? A simple Windows tweak can goose its operation.How-To
Get Windows 7 Performance on Your Current PC
Windows 7 promises quicker boot-ups, slick tools, and better looks. Here’s how to get the new OS's top features on your current Vista or XP PC without taking a chance on beta software or waiting for the final version of Windows 7 to arrive.How-To
Windows 7: Five Unique Features
Is Windows 7 necessary? Yes, because some of its improved features simply aren't available for Vista or XP. Here are five reasons you'll eventually want to step up to Windows 7.How-To
Windows 7 Features on a Vista or XP System
Windows 7 features like ISO image burning, Windows Search, and the great new Windows 7 Calculator are a big part of the new OS. Here's how you can get them–or features just as good–on your current Vista or XP system.Linux Line
DIY Netbook Linux
There are a variety of netbook distros out there, but you can have a little fun creating your own. Here's how.Hassle-Free PC
Fix a Laptop’s Sticky, Broken Keys
Don't consign your laptop to the scrap heap just because it has a worn-out keyboard. You may be able to replace it with a few bucks and a few minutes.Mobile Computing
Navigating Return Policies for Netbooks and Mobile Gear
Here's how to shop more carefully and avoid having to return tech items–and paying restocking fees.The Cost Cutter
Check Out On Hotel Wi-Fi Fees
A simple Wi-Fi finder utility can sniff out open networks for a free alternative to hotel Internet fees.Hassle-Free PC
Fix a Noisy, Overheated Laptop
Excessive dust can cause laptops to run loud and run hot. Grab a screwdriver and some compressed air to fix this problem in three minutes.Mobile Computing
Netbooks, Kindles, GPS: Avoiding Instant Buyer’s Remorse
It's easy to feel burned after you buy a new laptop, netbook, GPS, or other mobile device–here's why.The Cost Cutter
Keep Laptops and Phones Powered for Productive Travel
When your gadgets conk out, you're paying for it. Follow these tips to keep them charged.Hassle-Free PC
Three Ways to Install Windows 7 on a Netbook
Netbooks don't have DVD drives, so how are you supposed to install Windows 7? Try any of these three workarounds.How-To
How to Buy a Netbook
The netbook market is new, and constantly in flux. In this netbook buying guide, we explain what models are available to you today.
How-To
Hackintosh Netbook, Anyone?
A Mac OS netbook could be yours–if you're willing to gamble almost $500.How-To
The List: 57 Amazing Things You Didn’t Know Your Tech Could Do!
Here are all 57 of the tips and tricks we've pulled together for PCs, laptops, smartphones, cameras, the Web and more.How-To
57 Amazing Things You Didn’t Know Your Tech Could Do!
We've worked long and hard to come up with the best tips and tricks for your PCs, smartphones, cameras, game controllers, music players, and the Web. Let's start with PC, laptop, and networking tips.Answer Line
When Your Laptop Screen Breaks
James dropped his laptop and broke the screen. What should he do?Mobile Computing
Laptop Battery Power Tips
Learn how to keep your notebook going when you're away from a wall socket and there's no power port in sight.Net Work
Recover Your Laptop From Theft or Loss
Laptop recovery services can rescue a stolen PC and keep your data out of the hands of thieves, as long as you choose the right service for your needs.How-To
Wi-Fi Superguide: How to Build the Ultimate Wireless Network
Connect desktop PCs, wireless laptops, game consoles, and almost anything else through a wireless router.Hassle-Free PC
Another Way to Fix a Troublesome Touchpad
Tired of your thumb accidentally brushing the touchpad? Here's a simple fix that doesn't require mucking around with system settings.Hassle-Free PC
Change the Function of Your Laptop’s Power Button
Does it make your laptop sleep when you want it to shut down? Shut down when you want it to hibernate? Here's how to teach that power button who's boss!
How-To
Extend Laptop Battery Life With Hassle-Free PC
PC World blogger Rick Broida has tips for improving battery life on the road, making your laptop battery last longer, and saving energy with Windows Vista.Hassle-Free PC
Give Your Laptop Battery a Longer Lease on Life
Here's a trick for deskbound laptop users: Pull the plug. But not the one you think.How-To
4 Green Technology Tips That Will Save You Money
Save money on batteries and find a new use for your old PC with these tips.BizFeed
Find Yourself on Google Latitude Without GPS (or a Phone)
With just a Wi-Fi network, your laptop can sense its location in Google Latitude and Google Maps.Mobile Computing
Macs vs. Windows Laptops, Sky-Fi, and Video Chat
More lessons learned from 2008: Mac laptops aren't necessarily more expensive than Windows portables, airplanes are the new Internet cafes, and more.How-To
Secret Tech Tips From Hassle-Free PC
PC World blogger Rick Broida reveals how to turn on a hidden Windows Vista feature, make your own ringtones, and change IE's default search engine.Mobile Computing
Laptop Ergonomics for Mobile Professionals
Your laptop is a pain: Follow Jim Martin's advice and stop torturing yourself when you work on a portable.BizFeed
Pick Simple Upgrades to Boost Your PC Performance
These hardware upgrades conserve costs while still making your PCs run better.How-To
Fast Fixes for Common PC Problems
Struggling with dead components, a recalcitrant Windows, and uncooperative applications? Our easy hardware repairs, simple software remedies, and quick tweaks will put your PC in the pink.Mobile Computing