Free Guides
Technology should make life easier, not more worrying. Our free guides explain the essentials in plain English, from choosing a strong password to keeping your photos safe. Each one is a short PDF that you are welcome to read on screen, print or share with family and friends. Simply click a title to open it.
Guide to Passwords
Is your password as strong as you think? Compare it with six everyday examples to see which patterns criminals try first, then discover the safest ways to keep your passwords, from a password manager to a well-kept password book.
PDF, 3 pages
Guide to Remote Support
Many computer problems can be resolved without a home visit. This guide explains how a remote session works, takes you step by step through connecting with Quick Assist or Chrome Remote Desktop, and shows you how to tell a genuine session from a scam.
PDF, 3 pages
Guide to Antivirus
Most people do not need to pay for antivirus. This guide explains how the protection built into Windows compares with paid packages, and why learning to recognise a scam is the best defence of all.
PDF, 2 pages
Guide to Backing Up
A single fault, theft or scam could cost you years of photos. This guide explains why your files are safest in two places, compares your options from strongest to weakest, and sets out how the online backup services IDrive and Backblaze differ.
PDF, 3 pages
Guide to Cloud Storage
iCloud, Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox or Proton Drive? A clear comparison of the main services, with our recommendations for each combination of phone and computer.
PDF, 3 pages
Guide to Choosing the Best Browser
Chrome, Edge, Safari, Firefox or Brave? Which web browser to use, how each one helps to protect you, and how to keep it safe and up to date.
PDF, 3 pages
Guide to Spotting Scams
How to recognise scam emails, texts, phone calls and websites, the warning signs they all share, and exactly what to do if you think you have been caught out.
PDF, 5 pages
Guide to Windows 10
Microsoft no longer supports Windows 10. How to check whether your computer is still receiving security updates, whether it can run Windows 11, and which option is right for you.
PDF, 3 pages
Guide to Digital Landlines
Home phones across the UK are moving to digital lines by January 2027. What changes, what happens in a power cut, and the steps to take if you have a care alarm.
PDF, 3 pages
Guide to Buying a New Computer
Laptop, desktop, tablet or phone? How to choose the right device, what to look for in a new computer, and how to part with your old one safely.
PDF, 4 pages
More guides are on the way. If there is a topic you would like us to cover, please get in touch.
