Truly great PC troubleshooters know that they don't have to go it alone. The Internet is an amazing resource for troubleshooting help, so take advantage of it! In the troubleshooting example earlier in this lesson, for example, Internet research played a part in identifying the problem with the CD writing application.

Here are some places to look on the Internet recommended by CNET:

• Microsoft Support Knowledge Base : If you have a problem with anything made by Microsoft, this should be your first stop. Select the application you're having a problem with, and read articles detailing known issues.
• Microsoft Hardware Compatibility List : Windows works with a lot of different hardware, but it doesn't work with everything. If you're not sure whether you can use a particular hardware device under a particular Windows version, look up the device for your Windows version. Sometimes stuff just doesn't work. This won't make it work, but it'll make you feel better about giving up trying to make it work.
• CNET : CNET, is an excellent source of PC information too. CNET really shines in providing reviews of various hardware products.
• Answers that Work : Useful troubleshooting information here, including a great list of task list programs and what they do. (And in fact, you'll be using it in Lesson 4 when you find out about running processes.) There's also a great shareware Floppy Disk Manager program that you can use to create boot disks for various DOS and Windows versions. Browse all their "Downright Useful Downloads" utilities!
• Tom's Hardware Guide : This is where the professionals go to talk about PC hardware. It's a very rich source of detailed information, even if sometimes some of it might be over your head.
• ExtremeTech : Here's another high-end techie Web site for hardware enthusiasts. If you're past the basics and want to talk about expensive equipment, overclocking, and new technology innovations, this is the place.