Building a computer from the ground up only takes an hour but loading all the software and configuring the Internet connection, updating the anti-virus programme etc. usually takes another 3 - 4 hours - especially with Windows XP as there are a number of Critical Updates to be downloaded from Microsoft via the Internet. Windows Vista is quicker to configure as there are less updates - but being the newest operating system no doubt, in time, updates for this OS will increase.

The primary consideration when selecting components is to ensure as much "future proofing" (upgradability) as possible for a given budget. This also depends on what you want to use the computer for. If it's just Internet surfing, email and some word processing (ie: letters, business documents etc.) then you don't need a superduper machine but it still needs to be fast enough to cope with present and future programmes.

If you are into "gaming", offline or online, then you do need a machine with "grunt" - particularly in the CPU (Central Processing Unit), RAM and Graphics areas. These don't come cheap of course but can be immensely satisfying - especially when the computer "waits" for you rather than the other way around.

If you are considering having a purpose built computer talk to me first.