In a perfect world, we'd be able to have a single computer for every program we need to run. That way, there would be no arguments between software programs, no fights over memory and no worries over missing files. Some computers would be dedicated to making the others run faster, to keep malware out and to avoid crashes. When we needed to fix problems, we wouldn't have to call tech support - we'd run a troubleshooter that shows us where problems are so that we can deal with them.

a perfect world, utility and security software wouldn't be necessary. Computers would run forever with no maintenance, like microwave ovens, and operating systems would be inherently secure (or better yet, malicious software and the people behind it wouldn't exist, thus creating the need for security). World peace is also an admirable concept, however unlikely it may be, and of course just because its realization may be highly improbable, it does not mean we can't continue to dream or shouldn't collectively urge each other to strive for such ideals.

Most computer users at some point will notice their computer just doesn't run as quickly or efficiently as it did when it was new out of the box. Also, as time goes by, outdated software can become a security risk. Your stored personal data or data sent over the Internet may be exposed to the wrong people. You may be wondering exactly why this happens. It's because when your computer is first out of the box, all the software is as brand spanking new as a newborn baby. Everything is set for optimum and peak performance. However, as time goes by, software and drivers become outdated.

Here's one of the best kept secrets in the software business: Downloading software that was once sold only in a box has become so easy anyone can do it. Big retailers would prefer that you think otherwise and schlep to a store, wait online, and battle a condescending teenaged salesperson just to buy a copy of Quicken. Online stores would rather you pay shipping costs and then wait for your boxed copy of Norton Antivirus to arrive. Let's not even talk about trying to return a program you don't want.

I recently had to reinstall a whole slew of applications on my work PC, following a clean install of Windows Vista. It took me the better part of the day to get my most important packages up and running. And weeks later, I'm still reinstalling the odd utility or game that helps me make it through the day. But in the end, I was pleasantly surprised at how smoothly it all went, and how much of the resurrection occurred without reliance on CDs or DVDs.

When you bought your computer it was top of the line, the fastest machine available for commercial use, and the envy of all your friends. Over time though, its lightning quick movements have slowed, so much so that one day you find yourself wondering "How much did I pay for this piece of junk?" You can relax though; it's not that the computer is bad; it's that it has been flooded with junk. Old emails, copies of photos, spyware, all seriously hamper the performance of your computer. By following these easy steps, you can make your computer young again.

One of the most dangerous forms of malicious code is the computer virus, which alone is responsible for lost work hours, lost data and several other annoyances. While viruses will be around for the foreseeable future, there are measures that you can take to prevent (or at least minimize) any harm a virus can cause you.

Your identity is your single most important possession. It defines everything about you, contains your entire life. It's imperative that you should protect it at all costs from anyone who would try to hijack it. Identity theft is a lot easier and more comprehensive these days, with crafty criminals able to dig deep into every aspect of your online life. Here are some simple steps you can take do to make sure internet identity theft never happens to you:

Whether it's to get a piece of software, join a new site or buy and sell merchandise, we need to fill out online forms. Think about it, how many online forms do you fill out a day? How about a week? How about per year? Let's say, for argument's sake, you don't fill out many forms. Let's say you fill out five forms a week. Let's say each form takes five minutes to fill out. That's 125 minutes, over two hours a month, for filling out online forms. How much time is wasted on remembering passwords? Unless you use the same password for every single thing - which, by the way, is neither smart nor secure - you probably have a heck of a time remembering passwords for sites you already signed up on.

If you don't have a web page, it's time to catch up! A website is vital to your business. Even if you don't own a computer, your company can have a website. If you already have a website, CSS can help you with low-cost hosting options, site improvements, integration of online selling, marketing, search engine placement, graphic and animation improvements, and more.