This according to BluePhone (www.bluephone.com), the personal tech supporthotline and "At Home Help Desk" that helps consumers get maximum value outof their tech gear by eliminating hassles, fears and runarounds whenresolving problems with computers, peripherals and digital devices.

Once you get beyond the allure of owning a new computer, could you havespent that money on something else? Here are 10 things you can do to giveyour computer a makeover instead of buying new:

1. Consult an Expert -- Why buy before it's time? For a fraction of thecost of a new computer, tech support hotlines like BluePhone, iYogi andFiredog are helping consumers get the maximum out of their tech gear, withgreat advice including: how to restore your system and settings to 'likenew' status; setting up a wireless network; walking-through a newaccounting package; or how to organize photos into a digital scrapbook.

2. Computer tune-up -- Optimize system settings to restore your PC'sperformance and speed to its near original state -- for example by scanningregistry and program files items can be removed that cause slow performanceand application errors.

3. Security -- Make sure you have the latest security software toprotect against unwanted spyware, adware, and malware that can slow systemperformance and create security holes.

4. Upgrade existing software -- Popular software applications areconstantly being updated -- get current by downloading and installing thelatest versions.

5. Uninstall unused/unnecessary software -- Identify and delete softwareyou aren't using to avoid potential subscription costs and free up systemresources that may slow your computers performance.

6. Online backup -- Set up and transfer files to online backup servicesthat free up space on your hard disk drive allowing other applications torun faster.

7. Hardware upgrades -- By simply increasing your system's RAM you cansignificantly improve performance -- with little out-of-pocket expense.

8. Update current drivers for peripherals -- Out-of-date drivers maycause peripherals to function incorrectly or not at all -- easily correctedby downloading latest versions.

9. Upgrade and Enhance -- Use funds instead to upgrade or add-on, forexample: a wireless keyboard, digital camera, wide-screen monitor, or MP3player.

10. Skip Vista -- wait for Windows 7 -- If you still decide to buy, waitfor a system that will ship with Windows 7 -- Microsoft is giving up onVista and Windows XP will no longer be supported. In the meantime, join apersonal support hotline so you can work with experts to keep your computerfast-running, up-to-date, and working like new.

BluePhone Personal Tech Experts are extensively trained and certified toresolve nearly any computer software problem, offer expert advice, andtroubleshoot and fix hardware issues. Calls can be ad hoc or scheduled, andmembers can communicate with their Personal Tech Experts via email, chatand phone -- any time of the day or night.

Services are delivered via desktop sharing technology to remotely accessthe member's computer after receiving permission. If remote access is notdesired, a Personal Tech Expert will talk the member through the problemand give simple, step-by-step instructions until a successful resolution isachieved.

BluePhone membership includes unlimited assistance for all the computers ina household (up to 3 PCs or Macs) for $199.95 per year or $24.95 per month.One-time service calls are $89. BluePhone stands behind all of its serviceswith best-in-class money back guarantees.

About BluePhone

BluePhone was founded to "demystify technology" and help its members getthe most from their technology investments by eliminating the hassles,fears and runarounds of resolving problems with computers and digitaldevices. BluePhone Personal Tech Experts are certified solution engineerswho diagnose and fix problems that plague computer users today -- security(spyware, antivirus, spam, firewall), configuration (software, hardware,peripheral devices), and performance (slow speed, crashing, and tune-ups).Members get assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year by phone, email,chat or remote computer access. For additional information, visitwww.BluePhone.com or call 866-727-BLUE (866-727-2583).

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ContactSeth GeislerMartin Levy Public Relations858.610.9860Email Contact