How out of date is my computer? - Windows XP - Pentium III?

Question

- Dell Dimension 4100. I don't know much about this. We have a dial up "high speed" connection on netzero. (I live in Arkansas and am lucky that they just updated our phone service so we can call a larger town (12,000ish) where we could get an ISP.) I am wondering if I need to get Hughes Net or if my computer is too outdated to make a difference. We're trying to start a home based business and have alot we need to do on-line and are having problems getting things downloaded and using audio and video training. Plus things just run so slowly!! We really can't afford to buy a new computer right now!!! Any suggestions? Thank you

Answer 1

Is this new or old?

Answer 2

Your biggest problem from a home business standpoint is your slow internet access. Depending on your business needs, you probably want to get Hughes net.

The computer is fine, if dated. If it still works, then stay with it. Perhaps even add another hard drive for more storage. You'll probably need a database and/or spreadsheet application if you are starting a business.

If you are willing to experiment or if you are somewhat computer savvy, you can also try out Linux. Several distros have free Live CD downloads so you can compare. It will use your old computer hardware much more efficiently than Windows and perhaps give your old PC a few more years of life. However given your slow connection, you might want to ask someone who has a DSL or cable modem to download and burn it for you.

Remember too that there are free alternatives to the MS Office suite that work as well for most uses with less software bloat. Open Office is the most recommended and used.

What it comes down to is what your business needs are. If you plan on hosting a small website for infos and ordering, and running a database, then you will either need a new computer or need to learn a new OS.