Building a PC is the best option if you want a future-potent system. This is because you can always upgrade the individual components if the need arises. In this article, we have shared all the essential components you will need to get started.

Case and Motherboard

The case is the component that will house all the other parts while the motherboard is the platform where the hardware will be mounted. There are three types of cases: full tower, mid-tower, and mini-ITX. On the other hand, motherboards are available in different form factors, the common one being ATX motherboards.

CPU & GPU

The CPU and GPU are instrumental in the performance of your rig and will determine whether you can take on the heavy AAA games and power-hungry software or not. Here, you will have the option of going the Intel way or AMD. Just make sure that the processor and graphics card you choose matches your needs. For basic operations, you can go for any processor and GPU, but for handling heavy tasks, you will need the high-end models.

Memory and Storage

When it comes to RAM, anything above 4GB is a sweet spot for the basic operations but to run the heavy games and software, go for 8GB RAM and above. Storage is also important regardless of whether you are building a simple rig for your home media center setup or running heavy applications. The thing is, you will need enough storage space to store files.

Power Supply and Cooling

All your components require sufficient power for optimal performance. Match your power supply with the GPU and CPU. You will also need to find out what cooling system is best for you. The common cooling systems are fan-based but for advanced systems, go for liquid coolers.

The above are the major hardware components you will need to build your rig. Remember, you will also need an equally powerful monitor and the essential accessories.

You will agree with me that finding the best computer in a market flooded with different brands and models is not a walk in the park. In this article, we have discussed some of the critical aspects that should inform your decision when buying a computer.

Is it a Trusted Brand?

There are hundreds of PC brands. Experts recommend buying from renowned brands as they guarantee value for money. Here, the household names include HP, Dell, Acer, ASUS, Apple and Toshiba, among others. While the top brands are expensive, they are worth every penny in terms of performance, reliability and durability. Avoid the little known brands, even if they have attractive price tags.

What are Your Needs?

The next consideration is performance, and here, your needs matter. There are computers for business, graphic design, gaming, entertainment, and so on. If you are looking for a basic PC, go for those with entry-level hardware. However, for the demanding tasks such as PC gaming and running heavy software, settle for nothing but the high-performance models with high-end hardware (processor, RAM, storage, power supply, etc.).

What’s Your Budget?

As you may be aware, there are low-end PCs as well as the high-end models. The low-end PCs retail at around £200 to £500 while the high-end models will set you back anything from £1000 all the way to £3000. If you want high performance, you will have to spend more. Try to find something that is within your budget, without compromising on the performance.

There you have it, folks, three essential aspects to consider when choosing the best computer. Remember, you will also have to decide on whether to buy a desktop PC or a laptop. The former is for those who have stationary workstations while the latter is best if you want portability.

We all know the perils of giving out your card details online, whether you’re buying a new laptop or signing up to a bookmaker to bet on the Premier League. Many people are reluctant to give out such personal and sensitive information when making an online purchase, and so, the purpose of this article is to highlight ways you help you stay safe when betting online.

Staying Safe when Betting Online

Back in the day, signing up to a bookmaker and betting online were seen as a venture into the darkest areas of the internet, areas prone to credit card fraud and theft. While these issues are still a major concern, bookmakers have gone through great lengths to mitigate these risks with dedicated departments working around the clock to ensure your privacy is protected.

The first step in staying safe is by doing some research about the company before you decide to deposit. There should be clear answers in the bookmakers help section about how your account is protected, including security measures over your card details and other issues related to fraud prevention.

So what makes a company safe to bet with? The reputation is the most important factor of them all. For instance, BetWay had a troubled start and their reputation nosedived after they were accused of withholding customer funds. This caused an outrage and as a result, BetWay had to change management from the ground up to ensure they shift that negative goodwill.

Another factor to consider is the gaming license. Who is regulating the company and do they have a gaming license to even operate? At the bottom of each bookmakers site, you will quickly discover all the relevant information regarding the license and this is an indication that you’re in safe hands. If you do end up falling victim to Credit card fraud you can read this article for support. 

The HTTPS Rule

HTTPS MUST always be included in the URL right before the website name. For example, https://www.unibet.co.uk. HTTPS ensures that your card details stay safe when depositing funds, adding extra measures to your safety and security.

Other Important Safety Measures

There are some other safety features you should be aware of when making transactions online. Have you ever found your details already filled in when making another online purchase? While it can be extremely convenient especially on mobile, these are shortcuts that can make your details vulnerable to credit card fraud. It would be wise not to fill out any automatic forms and to delete all forms from the internet, go to settings → internet history → delete forms.

Keep in mind that when you delete forms you’ll be deleting all other forms on different websites too.

Why Should I Care?

While it’s the company or bookmakers responsibility to keep your card details safe, it is important to know what the bookmaker is doing to ensure your details are safe. Almost all bookmakers have a risk and fraud department where employees scan thousands of identity documents every single day to ensure the credit cards are not stolen.

Always be aware of the risks of making online transactions but if you follow the measures discussed above, you’ll be on the right track for safer online shopping.