How to Take Advantage of the Mobility of Laptops

Laptops are more expensive than desktop computers and are not as upgradeable. But if you desire portability in a computer, a laptop is well worth the extra expense and lack of upgrade options. There are several things you can do to help you further take advantage of a laptop's portability.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Surf the Internet from anywhere. A laptop gives you the ability to surf the Internet not just from home but from cafes, airports, libraries and anywhere wireless Internet is available. The most convenient way to do this is if you purchase a laptop with built in WiFi. If you laptop does not have built in wireless support, you'll need to purchase a wireless adapter.

2. Set up wireless Internet in your home. You can always use a desktop for Internet or plug your laptop into the Internet, but wireless access gives you the ability to surf the Internet comfortably. You can surf the Internet from a comfortable chair, in bed or at the breakfast table. You must purchase a wireless router and a wireless adapter if your laptop does not have built in wireless access.

3. Make your laptop a portable DVD player. The portability of a laptop means there is no need to spend a few hundred dollars on a portable DVD player with a tiny screen. Get a laptop with a DVD drive and a widescreen. Then pop in your favorite DVDs.

4. Use an external hard drive to access your data. Laptops tend to have smaller hard drives than desktops. If you have large files, store them on an external hard drive and take the hard drive with you when you'll need the data. You can also use the external hard drive to share data with your desktop computer.

5. Get a back-up battery. The portability of laptops is limited by a laptop's battery life. A good battery will last four to five hours on a charge when it is new, but battery life declines as batteries age. A second battery ensures you always have one fresh battery.

6. Consider a portable printer. A laptop has a monitor, mouse and keyboard built in, but the one thing it does not come with is a printer. Fortunately, you can purchase portable printers which will fit in a laptop bag.

7. Purchase a convenient laptop bag. Look for a bag which not only holds your laptop, but will also hold your external hard drive, printer, DVDs and any other electronic devices you carry. Having all your equipment in one bag will help you achieve convenient portability.