Along with a new January comes the pending thoughts of how slow my PC seems to have become. For some, it may indeed be too much spyware, cookies, and un-necessary software installed. While for others, it may not necessarily be that the PC has slowed down, but rather that the speed requirements of software today have simply increased. Maybe it's time for an upgrade?

The "techy" people probably go through a PC every 1 to 2 years. While the rest probably hang on to their dollars for quite a bit longer, maybe four years on average. I recently found a nice computer - a Dell Dimension 3.2ghz and 512MB of memory. It includes some extra fun toys, such as a DVD burner, wireless keyboard and mouse, and a few other things at a very cost-effective price.

Buying a new computer doesn't have to be a major expense. There are actually some good deals to be had on the Internet around this time of year, especially on auction sites. You might want to keep your eyes open for after-holiday close-out deals and refurbished computers. Contrary to popular belief, a refurbished computer is usually a PC used on display by the manufacturer, loaned to a school or employee for a short period of time, or sold but returned without opening. The manufacturer tests the entire product, replaces any required parts, and resets the system good as new. While the PC may even be brand new, the company can not put it back on the shelf for the consumer since the box was already opened or the PC turned on. Instead, they slap on the "refurbished" title, along with a big price deduction.

Of course, if you would rather get the latest and greatest at the full price, things are starting to look up for you as well. With competition amongst computer manufacturers heating up, the price is only getting better for the consumer. I've noticed even popular stores such as Best Buy and CompUSA are offering competitive prices for a new PC.

Either way, if it takes 5 minutes to startup your PC and 10 to shutdown, it just might be about time for a new computer. Stick around for the next few tips, as I plan on discussing more cost-effective ways to get back that kick in your PC by deleting unwanted junk.