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The computer is going to act up. It's not a question of if, but when. What you can do to minimize the damage, however, is to contact the area's best Ft. Lauderdale computer repair experts. We might be able to help you fix your machine on your own without breaking the bank.

Here are a few common Windows, RAM and spyware / security questions recently fielded by our Fort Lauderdale computer repair professionals and answered for your convenience.

Inquiry #1: How can you tell how much RAM an older Mac can hold, and is there a maximum quantity?

Reply #1: Yes, every motherboard has a maximum capacity and you're smart to learn what exactly that is as soon as possible, lest you end up in a Broward County computer repair shop prematurely. The best, and conveniently, easiest way is to use the memory calculator at Crucial.com.

Inquiry #2: If you have Windows Vista, and desire to go back to Windows XP, is it possible to transition back with a copy of Windows XP from a computer you don't already own?

Reply #2: It's possible... if you have disposed of the computer and no one else currently owns it and you actually own the operating system. As in, it wasn't preinstalled on your system. It also depends if you have a real XP disk or a "reinstallation" disk that will only work with past hardware. Even computer services with 10 years experience can't wrap their heads around Windows' complex licensing, though, so each case is likely to be different.

Inquiry #3: After downloading SpywareBot, for free, it wants money to fully remove the spyware. Isn't this supposed to be a free program?

Reply #3: Great question... and sadly, a common misunderstanding. While a free program, "SpyBot" (full name "SpyBot Search & Destroy") exists, some companies are trying to make money off the name by nearly copying it. In the worst case scenario, these may be actual Spyware companies trying to dupe you into installing spyware, rather than ridding yourself of it. The one you want is SpyBot. Or check out Ad-Aware, another good one suggested by this and other Fort Lauderdale computer repair services.

Inquiry #4: Let's say that a computer comes with a round keyboard slot in the back. Is one required to use a round kind of keyboard, or will a USB keyboard still work?

Reply #4: A USB keyboard should work. Just turn the computer off, unplug the old one, plug in the new one and turn it back on. Wait a few minutes for it to be recognized, and keep the old one around in case you have to hit F2 or something at the onset.