Latest PCs & Components How-To Stories
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How-To
PC boot problems: What to do when POST fails
Finally, you have assembled the PC of your dreams. You connect it to the mains, press the power button, and — nothing happens. Your computer does not start, it does not POST.How-To
Do you need an anti-static wristband when you're building a PC?
Experts recommend that you ground yourself when handling electronic components. What does that mean in practical terms?Tip
Can ECC RAM be used in home PCs?
Error-correcting code (ECC) RAM is mainly used in workstations and servers, but the question is whether it can benefit conventional computers.
How-To
How long does data last on a USB flash drive?
You have important data that you need to keep safe. A USB flash drive seems to be the perfect solution. But how long do they last?How-To
7 mistakes to avoid when buying a graphics card
When buying a new GPU, there are a few mistakes you should avoid. We tell you which seven points you should pay attention to.How-To
Liquid metal vs. thermal paste: Which CPU compound is better?
Liquid metal as a heat conductor offers better heat transfer, but also risks such as spillage and damage to PC components.How-To
Is an 80 Plus Platinum-rated power supply overkill?
When buying a power supply, other specifications should be considered besides performance, such as the 80-Plus rating. But what is the difference between 80-Plus Gold and Platinum?Tip
Does RAM clock speed matter for gaming? The ultimate guide
We compare DDR4 and DDR5 memory in a gaming test. This is the best way to know how to invest your money in RAM.Updated
How to set up two monitors for double the screen real estate
Whether you're using a desktop or laptop PC, a dual-monitor setup is an easy upgrade that pays big returns in productivity.How-To
Should you upgrade your PC or buy a new computer? A guide
Your PC is too slow, but you don't want to spend a lot of money on a new computer? We tell you whether it makes sense to upgrade your PC and what you need to bear in mind.How-To
PWM vs. DC: Which fan is better for PC cooling?
Deciding between PWM and DC case fans can be confusing. At the same time, it is important for the optimal performance of your computer.Updated
How to create an insane multiple monitor setup with three, four, or more displays
The more displays your computer has, the better—but there are considerations to keep in mind as you move into extreme multi-monitor setups for enhanced productivity and gaming.
Tip
Ultimate backup: Archival M-Discs store your data for 1000 years
Long-term storage of digital data is important, but also challenging. Archival CDs such as M-Discs offer a good solution with high durability.Tip
How to fix common USB connection problems in Windows
Occasionally, problems can occur with USB connections. We offer solutions for fixing them in Windows 10 and 11.How-To
AMD Radeon tuning guide: 6 tips to optimize your graphics card
Our guide explains how to get even more performance, efficiency, and picture quality out of AMD Radeon RX 7000- and RX 6000-series graphics cards.Tip
How to use Nvidia Video Super Resolution to beautify ugly videos
Video Super Resolution (VSR) was introduced by Nvidia in early 2023 and uses AI-based GPU power to transform grainy video into a sharp and responsive image in your browser.Tip
6 incredibly useful PC accessories for your desk
Whether it's ambient lighting, ring lights, or inductive mouse pads, every PC user can benefit from adding these accessories to their PC set-ups.How-To
How to increase the energy efficiency of your PC
An energy-efficient computer makes double sense: It not only protects the environment, but also reduces your electricity costs. Here are some tips.How-To
PC bottlenecks explained: How to know if your CPU or GPU is limiting games
Current games can push modern computer systems to their limits in many ways. But how do you know if your CPU or graphics card is limited? Here's how.How-To
6 big PC hardware myths, exposed
No longer the stuff of legend, we're shedding light on the biggest myths surrounding PC hardware.How-To
How to tell what kind of RAM you have
There are several easy ways to learn more about your system's memory.Updated
How to update your PC’s BIOS
Updating your BIOS can cut boot times, fix compatibility issues, and improve overall performance–or brick your system if you do it wrong. But with recent AM5 motherboard issues, an out-of-date BIOS can leave your PC vulnerable.How-To
How to benchmark your graphics card
Even if you aren't into overclocking, benchmarking your graphics card can help ensure your GPU is running as expected. Here's how to do it.
How-To
How to securely erase your hard drive or SSD
Ensure that the data on your old drives is safe from prying eyes with this simple guide to securely wiping your hard drives.
How-To
Seeing blurry, distorted patches of red on your new monitor? Try this fix
Do red text and images on your monitor look like a highly compressed JPEG file? Don’t worry, it’s probably not an issue with your panel.How-To
How to fix stick drift on the Steam Deck
If your Steam Deck's analog sticks are showing movement even when you're not touching them, it's time to bust out the screwdriver.
How-To
How to turn an old tablet into a second PC monitor for free
Spacedesk: The best free software for turning a tablet into a computer monitorHow-To
How to change the page orientation in Google Docs
Need to change the page orientation in Google Docs? We've got you covered.How-To
How to add a summary to any Google Doc
Need to add a summary to your Google doc? We'll guide you every step of the way.How-To
How to turn off auto-capitalization in Google Docs
Our comprehensive guide on how to turn off auto-capitalization in Google Docs.How-To
How to make a table of contents in Google Docs
If you're looking to better organize your Google Doc, you should consider adding a table of contents. Here's how to do it.Tip
Building a tiny PC? This accessory can save your cables from a sad fate
Managing cables in small form factor PCs can be a nightmare. A simple, cheap fan accessory can help.How-To
Monitor buying guide: How to choose your next display
Shopping for a new monitor? We break down all the specs that matter, from refresh rate to panel type and beyond.How-To
Buying a new PC power supply is complex now. Here's what you need to know
Power supplies are a little more complex than they seem, and with the new ATX 3.0 standard, they're getting even more so. Check out this PCWorld guide to the PSU on YouTube!How-To
How to swap out the Steam Deck's noisy fan
There are two different fans that come with the Steam Deck, one noisy and one quiet. Luckily, it's easy to track down the better option and install it yourself!How-To
How to use the Steam Deck interface on your PC
With just a few easy steps you can replace Steam's Big Picture UI with the custom interface on the Steam Deck portable gaming PC.How-To
How to enable Eco Mode with Ryzen 7000
AMD's Ryzen 7000 CPUs come with Eco Mode, which allows the processor to run more efficiently with less heat. Here's how to enable Eco Mode and the benefits you can expect.How-To
How to use the Windows HDR Calibration app to make your monitor shine
Windows 11 has a new free Windows HDR Calibration app that will quickly allow you to tweak your HDR display to make it look its best. Here's how to use it.How-To
How to use Samsung's Galaxy Tab as a second display for your PC
If you own a Samsung Galaxy Tab tablet, you already have a terrific second display for both work or business travel. Here's how to use it.Updated
Best PC fan setup: How to optimize your case for cooling
Keep your PC components as cool (and fast) as possible by setting your fans up the right way.How-To
Does your AMD X370, B350, or A320 motherboard work with Ryzen 5000?
Determining if your first-generation AM4 mobo works with processors like the 5600 or 5700X takes just a few minutes.Tip
Your CD and DVD backup discs won’t last forever. Copy them before it’s too late
Bit rot is a real concern for older optical disc backups—but with the right tools, you can get that data onto more reliable media with little headache.Updated
How to install memory (RAM) in your PC
Upgrading your PC's RAM is one way to make your computer feel far more snappy. Here's how to do it.Tip
3 things to know before building a small form factor PC
Thinking of building your first small form factor PC? Take a few tips from PCWorld's YouTube channel.Updated
How to install an Intel or AMD CPU in your computer
The CPU is the beating heart of your PC. Here's how to install it.
How-To
How to tell which version of Windows you have
Knowing your version and edition of Windows is useful, especially if you’re about to upgrade. Here are several fast ways to get the info.How-To
How to check your monitor's refresh rate
Looking for faster gameplay? You've come to the right place. Adjusting the refresh rate on your monitor is actually quite simple.How-To
What to look for in a cheap Chromebook
Is a cheap Chromebook good enough for homework and distance learning? We discuss the most important criteria as you buy cheap Chromebooks for the holidays and Black Friday.
How-To