Weddingbee boards

Well I would probably get over the fear of Windows 7 and learn it. It really is very intuitive and doesn't have the problems Vista did. Windows is going to quit supporting Windows XP in October, so they will quit patching the security holes which will put you at risk for malware and phishing scams.

You might want to look into the Dell Mini Notebook/Netbook line. They don't come with CD/DVD-rom, but if you really need one then you can get an external one. They are great for traveling and have plenty of processing power for what you need. Netbooks are usually cheaper, so you can use that extra money to buy good antivirus protection, accessories, a service plan, extra batteries, external dvd-rw drive, or whatever software you might need (Microsoft Office, etc.).

Always estimate around $200 for a service plan, accessories, and software on top of the computer cost. So if you have $600 to spend, look for a $400 laptop.

For using the computer only for internet, basic word processing, and basic photo editing anything out there today would work for you.

Hmm, that sounded kind of harsh. I'm sorry I didn't mean it to be. I'm an IT technician so I tend to give robot-like answers since I get asked these questions all day by my co-workers. :-)

Well if you get a discount through Dell I would start pricing there. They are pretty affordable and lot of the time you can find a coupon on RetailMeNot.com to waive the shipping fee. Another good online vendor is Newegg.com.

For brick and mortar stores try Best Buy (I know they get a bad wrap, but I've bought 15 computer through them with no issues), Costco, OfficeMax, OfficeDepot, Fry's Electronics, Staples, and try calling around to local shops. I would stay away from Target and Walmart since they tend to negotiate cheap prices based on the companies using cheap parts. So...even though they sell Dells it will be the worst made computer Dell offers. Brick and Mortar are nice because if you have questions or problems they can usually walk you through everything there at the store.

For support issues, just remember it will probably take on average 2-3 weeks when a hardware issue comes up to get it repaired no matter who you go through. Backup your computer frequently (or go with online hosting like Carbonite or Mozy). Also, get good antivirus protection like Kaspersky Internet Security or Panda Antivirus. That will take care of 90% of software related issues.

Depends on the feature you want. Asus was actually a motherboard company and made its money selling internal components to the big manufacturers (Dell, HP, Sony, etc.). They started building computers and I have heard great things about them. Acer is a similar company to take a look at, but they have been successful enough in their transition from component market to complete computer systems that they bought out Gateway. I don't personally have any experience with Asus and Acer, but I've had great luck with Dell and Toshiba. I would try searching for the model you want on Newegg and read the reviews. Most the people that review are IT professionals.