Our site uses cookies to give you the best experience. or continue shopping if you're happy.
Accept & close
Computing
Things to Know
There are some essential product details you'll want to consider before starting the search for your new computer. Our handy videos will help you narrow down the options to make sure you find exactly what you need.
Did you know?
Battery Care
Try not to let your laptop’s battery run down completely. Keeping it charged between 20% and 80% will help it last longer.
Data Backup
Protect your important files by regularly backing them up to an external hard drive or cloud storage. Better safe than sorry!
Regular Cleaning
Dust off your desktop tower and peripherals with a soft cloth. Use compressed air to clean out dust from the vents, fans, and other openings. Dust can cause overheating and slow down performance.
Cable Management
Keep your cables organized and tidy. Use cable ties or clips to prevent them from tangling and getting damaged.
Protect it
Use a case to protect your tablet from scratches and drops. A screen protector can also help prevent screen damage.
Update Software
Keep your tablet's software up to date to ensure you have the latest features and security patches.
Guides and Advice
Wrap your head around laptops
Our handy buying guide will tell you everything you need to know about our huge range of super-portable computers, whether it’s for work, play, or a mix of both.
Land a deal
Head over to our computing deals page and check out some of the amazing offers on our huge range of top brands.
Upgrade your desktop
Whether it’s a new family computer or personal purchase for your home office, our desktop buying guide has all the info you need to make the right choice.
Representative example
29.9% APR Representative (variable). 29.9% PA Purchase rate (variable). £1,200 Assumed credit limit
*Credit and availability of offers are subject to status. Terms apply.
Credit is provided by NewDay Ltd. AO Retail Limited acts as a credit broker for NewDay Ltd on an exclusive basis and is not a lender.
FAQs
- What is cloud computing?
A server is a special type of computer with the sole job of running a program or service that other computers can connect to and use. It’s a way of linking computers together over the internet, as well as making sure that they’re all safe and secure. Every time you browse a website, you’re connecting to the server that hosts that website – without servers, there wouldn’t be a world wide web!
- What is computer hardware?
A computer’s hardware refers to all the physical bits and pieces that make it work. This includes the processor, RAM, storage, and graphics card, as well as the motherboard, fans, and power supply unit. In short, it’s all the stuff your computer is made up of.
- How do I factory reset a Windows 11 computer?
Resetting a Windows 11 computer to its box fresh factory settings only take a few clicks. First, go to the Start menu and scroll down to Settings. Then choose System and click on Recovery. There you should see the Reset this PC option, and you want to select Reset PC to kick off the process. You’ll be able to pick whether you want everything to be deleted, or saved on the cloud if you don’t want to lose anything.
- What is a server?
A server is a special type of computer with the sole job of running a program or service that other computers can connect to and use. It’s a way of linking computers together over the internet, as well as making sure that they’re all safe and secure. Every time you browse a website, you’re connecting to the server that hosts that website – without servers, there wouldn’t be a world wide web!
- What is RAM?
RAM is your computer’s random access memory (that’s what it stands for). It’s a temporary storage space for all the data your system needs to run an app properly, and makes sure the info is readily available for your computer to quickly grab when it needs to.
- What is an operating system?
Your computer’s operating system is the software it uses to manage the hardware and resources it needs to use when it’s turned on. The 2 most common operating systems are Microsoft Windows and Apple macOS, but there’s also Google ChromeOS found on Chromebooks, and Linux or Ubuntu for more advanced users. Even smartphones and tablets use an operating system depending on which brand they are.
- What’s the difference between a desktop and laptop?
A desktop is a computer tower that you need to plug into your mains. You’ll also have to connect a monitor, mouse and keyboard to be able to use it. A laptop is a portable computer with a rechargeable battery that has a built-in monitor, keyboard, and a trackpad for mouse movement.
Browse the computing range at AO
Picking the perfect computer doesn’t have to be a chore. We’ve got loads of great deals on laptops, desktops, and monitors that are sure to put a smile on your face. Desktops have higher performance and can be paired with larger screens, so they’re great for a home office. But laptops have the bonus of being portable, so if you want to take them on the go, they’re the perfect choice for you.
Prioritizing performance
When you’re looking for a desktop or laptop, you need to find one that can handle whatever tasks you do most. Your processor and RAM combos are what will make the difference. Multitasking needs more RAM, and demanding software needs a top-notch processor. It’s also worth thinking about how much storage you need for apps and files. If you’re just browsing the internet and checking emails, you won’t need a model that’s too powerful as you’ll be paying for performance you won’t use. But if you want to play games or edit videos, you’ll need some impressive specs. For more information on computers, our buying guides can give you the lowdown.
Bag a bargain laptop
We’ve got loads of offers on laptops. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just need a computer for life admin, we’ve got tons of options at competitive prices to sweeten the deal. We also sell all the accessories you might need, so you can get the lot in one go. From keyboards and mice to laptop bags and external hard drives.
Tip-top monitors
If you’re after a computer monitor and PC, we’ve got discounts on them too. If you’re into gaming or want to watch films, you’ll want an OLED monitor deal. Or you can pick up a computer PC monitor with a colour-accurate IPS screen. VA panels have amazing contrast and TN panels give incredible response times so they’re a good gaming alternative.
