When buying a new desktop computer, there is nothing worse than getting it home, and then realizing it is missing half the features that you intended to have. People often presume a new desktop computer will automatically have everything they need included, however this is not always the case.

Pentium 3 ghz processor or an equivalent in the AMD or Athlon range. This is how fast the computer will process your tasks. Some people will swear by a Pentium or others are die hard fans of AMD and Athlon. Either way 3ghz should be the minimum speed that you should look for in a new computer. This will allow you to use your computer for most applications without a problem. Emailing, browsing the internet, office work, homework, normal gaming and more. Of course, if you can afford it, I would go for a dual core or even quad core. Also beware when they say a computer is 3500+ This does not mean it is 3.5ghz in Pentium terms.

DVD writeable drive If you get a DVD burner there will be no need for any other cd rom or cd-rw drive as the DVD-rw drive will do everything. It will read DVD's and CD's, copy and burn DVD's and CD's, and you can use it to backup your data. The price of a DVD burner is well under $50 now, so there is no point getting anything less.

LCD Flat screen monitor Most new computers come with an LCD monitor as the old CRT monitors are not available any longer. A 17" is the average size that allows you top see the screen clearly, and of course bigger is better. Any new LCD monitor is fine as long as it is compatible with your computer.

USB Ports Don't forget the USB ports. Find out how many you need. If you have a USB mouse or keyboard, remember that this will take two USB spaces. I also like to plug an external hard drive in, a flash USB stick, and my digital camera. Having a USB at the front of your computer case is also handy and seems to be an included feature of new desktop computers.

A graphics card This is a great feature as it will save your computers recourses. Your computer will run faster with a separate graphics card installed be the computer will not be controlling the images. This is particularly useful for someone that likes to play games. The bigger the game, the better your graphics card should be. Having an onboard graphics card that is integrated into your motherboard is fine office and homework applications. If you get Windows Vista you have to have a graphics card to get the cool effects that come with it.

A sound card An onboard sound card is fine, unless you want to turn your computer into a music stereo. I have had on board 5.1 channel sound and used sub woofer speakers and the sound nearly blasted me out of the room. Ordinary computer speakers would not do that.

Windows XP or Windows Vista Operating System When buying a computer and you have Windows installed, make sure you have a COA sticker on the side of your computer and the original Windows CD that comes with it. The COA (certificate of authenticity) makes your copy of Windows legal and you will need to see this number if you ever have to format your computer. You will need a copy of the cd when you format your computer. Some computer sales places do not provide the customer with a Windows CD.

If you are already used to Windows XP you should stick with that operating system. Windows Vista takes a bit longer to get the hang of as there are so many more features. Of course if I had the choice, I would choose Windows Vista, however you must have a fast computer to run it. 512mb ram is not enough for Windows Vista to run smoothly. Be careful because computer stores are still selling computers with only 512mb ram and Windows Vista.

Keyboard and Mouse If your computer comes with the average keyboard and mouse, that will be fine and will work well. Just make sure the mouse is optical with the little red light underneath. It would be even better if it were all wireless though.. The less cords, the better.