Let’s tackle the first question. Your computer is a truly unique piece of equipment. Although it may be the same brand as another computer, it can contain components from totally different manufacturers. Even if the components are the same, the computer itself, because of the manufacturing process, is unique. Amazingly, I have seen two computers (with sequential serial numbers) that were created at the same time with the same components react differently to software installations. Also, realize that once you start installing programs and adding data to your computer it quickly becomes as unique as a snowflake. There may be no other computer in the world that has the same hardware, software, drivers, data libraries, and settings that your computer possesses. So a new program that may work well on 99.9% of the computers in the universe, may not work well on your computer.

What to do about it? First contact the manufacturer of the software, there may be a problem with the software that they know about. Sometimes software will have trouble with a certain make and/or model computer, printer, or other component. Or the program may have conflicts with other known software that you may have installed on your computer. Most manufacturers put this type of information on their Web sites and have documented such instances so that their technical representatives can alert you to these problems if you call or e-mail their support center.

If your contact with the manufacturer gives you no satisfaction, it is time to get rid of the errant software. If you are using Windows Me or Windows XP, this is an easy process. Both of these operating systems have a built-in System Restore function. Click on Start-- (All) Programs--Accessories--System Tools--System Restore. Once there, click on “Restore My System to an earlier time.” You will then be presented with a calendar which shows when your system was automatically backed up. Choose the most recent date prior to when you installed the errant software, and follow the instructions. Your system will almost magically revert back to its previous good operating status. Don’t worry; all of your data will still be intact. The System Restore will affect only new programs that you have installed since the Restore Date.

To get the best results from the System Restore it is important to remember two things: First, install only one new program at a time. Then use the computer for a few days to make sure that everything is still running properly. Second, use the System Restore as soon as you realize that something is wrong. The computer normally only lets you revert back a few weeks, but if you wait too long, you won’t have the option of restoring easily.

If you are using an older operating system like Windows 95 or 98, getting rid of the errant program may be much more difficult. Click on Start-Programs, and see if the program that you installed has an Uninstall utility listed. If it does, click on that to uninstall the program. If there is no uninstall utility, go to the Control Panel (Start-Control Panel), and choose Add/Remove Programs. Then choose the wayward program from the list and click on Uninstall. In most cases, this will solve the problem, but in some cases remnants of the program will still remain, or settings that the program changed will still be incorrect. This is a great reason to upgrade to Window XP with its useful System Restore utility. There is also a program called GoBack by Roxio that will perform a similar function for Windows 98 users, but the program must be installed and running before you have the problem.

As you can see, it is getting easier and easier to handle programs that don’t work properly. Just be aware of the System Restore function. Oh, and one more thing. Always try to purchase software with a generous return policy so you can get your money back if it turns out to be incompatible with your computer.