Basic Computer & Internet Usage
– Comprehensive Notes
1. Installing Software (S/W)
A. Using Microsoft Store (For Windows)
• Built-in app store on Windows OS.
• Steps:
1. Open Microsoft Store.
2. Search for the app/software.
3. Click Get or Install.
4. Wait for download and installation.
5. Open via Start Menu or desktop shortcut.
B. Using Official Website
• For more apps or older versions.
• Steps:
1. Open a browser.
2. Search for the software (e.g., “Download VLC Media Player”).
3. Click on the official website (watch for fake links).
4. Download the correct version (Windows/macOS/Linux).
5. Run the installer file.
6. Follow on-screen steps to install.
✅ Tip: Always install software from trusted sources to avoid viruses or
malware.
2. Browsers – What They Are & Examples
What is a Browser?
• A web browser is software used to access and view websites on the
internet.
Common Web Browsers:
• Microsoft Edge – Built into Windows.
• Google Chrome – Fast and widely used.
• Mozilla Firefox – Known for privacy.
• Brave – Focuses on ad-blocking and speed.
• Safari – Default on macOS and iOS.
3. Reading Online Newspapers (Epapers)
What is an Epaper?
• Digital version of a printed newspaper.
• Looks like a scanned newspaper page.
Steps:
1. Open a browser.
2. Search for “epaper [newspaper name]” or visit directly:
o Times of India Epaper
o The Hindu Epaper
3. Click on the date/page you want to read.
✅ Tip: You may need to create a free account for access.
4. Email Services
Popular Free Email Providers:
• Gmail – gmail.com
• Outlook/Hotmail – outlook.com
• Yahoo Mail – mail.yahoo.com
• Yandex Mail – mail.yandex.com
How to Use Email:
✅ To Read Emails:
1. Log in to your email account.
2. Go to your Inbox.
3. Click on an email to open it.
✅ To Send an Email:
1. Click Compose / New Email.
2. Fill in:
o To: Recipient’s email address.
o Subject: Brief title of your message.
o Message Body: Your message.
3. (Optional) Click Attach to add files.
4. Click Send .
5. Downloading Files from Internet
• Find the Download button on a website.
• Choose the correct file (Windows/Mac/Android).
• Click and save the file.
• Check the Downloads folder to open.
6. File Management Basics
Common Actions:
• Create a new folder: Right-click → New → Folder.
• Rename: Right-click → Rename.
• Move: Drag file/folder to a new location.
• Delete: Right-click → Delete (goes to Recycle Bin).
• Restore from Recycle Bin if deleted by mistake.
7. Searching the Web
How to Search:
• Use Google, Bing, or DuckDuckGo.
• Type in what you’re looking for:
o Ex: “How to make a PDF file” or “Weather in Mumbai today”
• Click on the most relevant link.
8. Safe Browsing Tips
• ✅ Use strong passwords.
• ✅ Do not click suspicious links or pop-ups.
• ✅ Use antivirus software.
• ✅ Keep your browser and software updated.
9. Useful Shortcuts (Windows)
Action Shortcut
Copy Ctrl + C
Paste Ctrl + V
Cut Ctrl + X
Undo Ctrl + Z
Refresh page F5
Open new tab Ctrl + T
Switch tabs Ctrl + Tab
Save Ctrl + S
Print Ctrl + P
