💻Computeractive: UK’s Leading Consumer Tech Magazine
Computeractive is the United Kingdom’s best-selling consumer technology magazine, providing straightforward advice, reviews, and tutorials for everyday computer users. Since 1998, this fortnightly publication has helped millions of readers master Windows, troubleshoot problems, stay secure online, and get the most from their computers, tablets, and smartphones with jargon-free guidance and expert tips.
Tips, tricks & troubleshooting
Stay safe online
Laptops, tablets, phones
Step-by-step guides
💡 Why Computeractive Matters: This magazine is specifically designed for everyday users—not IT professionals. Whether you’re a senior learning to video call grandchildren, a home user protecting against scams, or someone wanting to master Microsoft Office, Computeractive provides clear, tested advice in plain English.
🌟 Core Focus Areas
- Windows Mastery: Tips, shortcuts, settings, and customization for Windows 11 and 10
- Online Security: Scam awareness, password management, privacy protection, antivirus reviews
- Problem Solving: Fix crashes, speed up PCs, recover data, resolve errors
- Software Tutorials: Microsoft Office, email, browsers, photo editing, video calling
- Hardware Reviews: Laptops, desktops, tablets, printers, routers, and accessories
- Digital Life: Social media, streaming services, smart home devices, mobile apps
📖About Computeractive
🏛️History & Mission
Launched in 1998 as computing entered mainstream homes, Computeractive established itself as the friendly guide to personal computing. The magazine was created to demystify technology for ordinary people—offering straightforward help without assuming technical knowledge. Over 26 years, it has guided readers through dial-up internet, broadband, WiFi, smartphones, tablets, cloud computing, and now AI and smart homes.
📜 Evolution Through Tech Ages
- Late 1990s: Helping users navigate Windows 98 and early internet
- Early 2000s: Broadband setup, digital photography, CD/DVD burning
- Mid 2000s: Social media emergence, online shopping safety, wireless networking
- 2010s: Smartphones, tablets, cloud storage, app ecosystems
- 2020s: Remote work, video conferencing, streaming services, smart homes, AI tools
🎯Editorial Philosophy
Computeractive operates on the principle that technology should work for people—not the other way around. The editorial team tests everything from a consumer’s perspective, assuming no prior technical knowledge. Instructions are written in clear English, screenshots show exactly what readers will see, and solutions address real problems readers face daily.
📍 Published By: Dennis Publishing (now Future plc), one of the UK’s leading specialist magazine publishers. Computeractive is produced by a team of technology journalists, testers, and experts who understand the needs of everyday computer users.
👥Target Audience
The magazine primarily serves home computer users, seniors, small business owners, and anyone who uses technology but doesn’t consider themselves “tech-savvy.” Readers range from complete beginners to intermediate users seeking to expand their skills. The content is particularly valuable for those who find other tech publications too technical or assume too much knowledge.
🌟 What Makes Computeractive Different
- Jargon-Free Language: Technical terms explained in everyday English
- Numbered Steps: Every tutorial uses clear step-by-step instructions
- Annotated Screenshots: Visual guides show exactly where to click
- Real-World Problems: Solutions to issues readers actually encounter
- Independent Reviews: Honest product testing without manufacturer bias
- Reader Q&A: Expert answers to reader questions every issue
- Security Focus: Constant vigilance against scams and threats
🎓Educational Impact
Many readers credit Computeractive with transforming their relationship with technology. The magazine has helped seniors stay connected with family through video calls, enabled small business owners to manage finances digitally, and given countless users the confidence to troubleshoot problems independently rather than calling expensive tech support.
💡 Reader Testimonials: “I went from being afraid of computers to managing my entire life online thanks to Computeractive.” “Clear instructions that actually work—no confusing jargon!” “The only tech magazine my mum can understand and follow.”
✍️Regular Features & Content
🪟Windows Help & Tips
💻 Windows Coverage
- New Features: Explaining Windows 11 updates in clear language
- Customization: Personalize desktop, taskbar, Start menu, themes
- Keyboard Shortcuts: Time-saving key combinations for common tasks
- Settings Guide: Navigate Windows settings without confusion
- File Management: Organize documents, photos, downloads efficiently
- Performance: Speed up slow PCs, free up storage space
- Troubleshooting: Fix common errors, crashes, and glitches
🛡️Security & Privacy
🔐 Staying Safe Online
- Scam Alerts: Latest phishing emails, phone scams, and fraud warnings
- Password Management: Create strong passwords and use password managers
- Antivirus Reviews: Test results for free and paid security software
- Privacy Settings: Control what apps, websites, and services can access
- Safe Shopping: Identify legitimate online retailers, avoid fake sites
- Email Security: Spot suspicious messages, protect personal data
- VPN Guide: Understand virtual private networks for privacy
📱Device Reviews & Buying Guides
Budget to premium tested
All-in-ones & towers
iPads & Android tablets
Inkjet & laser reviews
WiFi & mesh systems
Keyboards, mice, storage
📧Software & Applications
🖥️ Essential Software
- Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint tips and tricks
- Email Clients: Outlook, Gmail, Thunderbird tutorials
- Web Browsers: Chrome, Edge, Firefox features and extensions
- Photo Editing: Basic edits to advanced retouching
- Video Editing: Simple tools for creating home movies
- PDF Tools: Create, edit, and convert PDF documents
- Cloud Storage: OneDrive, Google Drive, Dropbox guides
🌐Internet & Online Services
🔗 Digital Life
- Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter safety and privacy
- Video Calling: Zoom, Teams, Skype, WhatsApp tutorials
- Streaming Services: Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, iPlayer guides
- Online Banking: Safe access to accounts, mobile apps
- Email Management: Organize inbox, filter spam, create folders
- Search Skills: Google advanced search, finding reliable information
- Online Shopping: Compare prices, use vouchers, return items
💬Reader Support
❓ Help & Advice Sections
- Ask the Experts: Readers’ technical questions answered
- Reader Tips: Useful hints submitted by community
- Problem Solved: Step-by-step solutions to common issues
- Letters: Reader feedback, suggestions, and experiences
- News in Brief: Latest technology news explained simply
- Freeware Focus: Best free software recommendations
🎯Special Features
📑 Regular Specials: Computeractive publishes in-depth features on major topics:
- Complete beginner’s guides to new Windows versions
- Comprehensive security specials on staying safe online
- Buying guides for major shopping periods (Black Friday, etc.)
- Digital declutter guides for organizing files and photos
- Holiday specials on backing up before trips, travel tech
🎓Featured Tutorials & Guides
🖥️Essential Computer Skills
Level: Beginner | Time: 30 minutes
Create a logical folder structure, name files sensibly, use Windows File Explorer effectively, and back up important documents to cloud storage.
Level: Beginner | Time: 45 minutes
Remove startup programs, clean temporary files, defragment hard drive, check for malware, and update drivers to restore performance.
Level: Beginner | Time: 1 hour
Use Windows Backup, create system images, sync important files to cloud storage, and schedule automatic backups for peace of mind.
Level: Beginner | Time: 30 minutes
Change themes, adjust taskbar, personalize Start menu, set default apps, and make Windows look and work the way you want.
🛡️Security & Safety
Level: Beginner | Time: 20 minutes
Generate secure passwords, use a password manager, enable two-factor authentication, and protect accounts from hackers.
Level: Beginner | Time: 15 minutes
Identify fake emails, check sender addresses, avoid clicking suspicious links, and report phishing attempts to protect yourself.
Level: Intermediate | Time: 1 hour
Configure Windows privacy settings, manage app permissions, control ad tracking, and secure your webcam and microphone.
📧Communication & Productivity
Level: Beginner | Time: 30 minutes
Set up Zoom, Teams, or Skype; test audio and video; use virtual backgrounds; and troubleshoot common connection problems.
Level: Beginner | Time: 45 minutes
Format documents professionally, insert images and tables, use styles and templates, and master essential features for letters and reports.
Level: Beginner | Time: 1 hour
Create spreadsheets, use formulas and functions, format cells, create charts, and manage household budgets or simple databases.
📸Digital Media
Level: Beginner | Time: 45 minutes
Import photos from camera or phone, create albums, tag faces, remove duplicates, and back up precious memories to cloud storage.
Level: Intermediate | Time: 1 hour
Crop and straighten, adjust brightness and color, remove red-eye, apply filters, and enhance photos for printing or sharing online.
Level: Beginner | Time: 1 hour
Use Windows Photos or free software to combine photos and videos, add music and transitions, and create memorable presentations.
📥How to Access Computeractive
🌐Official Subscription Options
Subscribe at Computeractive official website for digital access, print subscriptions, or combined packages. Access the latest issue, back issues, and exclusive online tutorials.
Read on any device with the digital magazine app. Available through the official website with options for iOS, Android, and web browser access.
Free newsletters include tech tips, security alerts, product recommendations, and exclusive subscriber content delivered fortnightly to your inbox.
💰Subscription Packages
💳 Available Options
- Print Subscription: 26 issues delivered annually (fortnightly) to your door (£40-60/year)
- Digital Subscription: Instant access on all devices (£30-50/year)
- Print + Digital: Complete package for best value (£50-70/year)
- Trial Offers: First few issues at reduced price for new subscribers
- Gift Subscriptions: Perfect for family members needing tech help
- Renewal Discounts: Special rates for continuing subscribers
🛒Retail & Newsagents
🏪 Purchase Individual Issues: Find Computeractive at:
- UK Newsagents: WH Smith, independent newsagents nationwide
- Supermarkets: Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda with magazine sections
- Bookstores: Waterstones and other major book retailers
- Online Retailers: Amazon UK (print and Kindle editions)
- Digital Platforms: PocketMags, Readly, PressReader
📚Library Access
🏛️ Free Through Libraries
- Public Libraries: Many UK libraries stock Computeractive in reading rooms
- Digital Library Services: Some libraries offer digital magazine access
- BorrowBox: Library app that may include magazine subscriptions
- Library Cards: Check your local library’s digital resources catalog
💡 Library Tip: Ask your local library about their digital magazine offerings. Many UK public libraries provide free access to magazines through apps and websites—you just need your library card!
📥PDF & Digital Archives
For readers seeking Computeractive PDF editions and back issues, visit Free Magazines – Computeractive Collection for access to magazine archives and past editions.
⚠️ Support Quality Tech Journalism: While free archives exist, subscribing to Computeractive supports the writers, testers, and experts who create reliable, tested advice. Your subscription helps maintain the jargon-free guidance that makes technology accessible to everyone.
📰Magazine Aggregator Services
🗂️ Digital Bundles
- Readly: UK’s popular unlimited magazine service (£9.99/month)
- PocketMags: Individual issues or subscriptions
- PressReader: Newspapers and magazines worldwide
- Kindle Unlimited: Selected issues available to UK members
📖Special Editions & Guides
The magazine publishes special edition guides on specific topics like “Windows 11 Complete Guide,” “Ultimate Security Manual,” and “Office Essentials” available at newsagents and online.
🎁 Perfect Gift For: Computeractive subscriptions make thoughtful gifts for:
- Parents and grandparents learning to use computers
- Seniors wanting to stay connected with family online
- Anyone who finds technology confusing or intimidating
- Small business owners managing their own IT
- Home users who want to stop paying for tech support
- People concerned about online security and scams
📚Reader’s Guide & Tips
📖How to Use Computeractive
⚡ Reading Strategies
- Start with Your Problem: Check the contents page for relevant tutorials
- Keep It Handy: Have the magazine next to your computer when following steps
- Read Ahead: Preview entire tutorials before starting
- Mark Your Place: Use bookmarks or sticky notes for reference
- Check Security Alerts: Always read the security section for latest scam warnings
- Try New Features: Attempt at least one new tip from each issue
- Save Past Issues: Keep recent magazines for troubleshooting reference
🎯Who Benefits Most?
Patient, clear guidance
Everyday computing help
DIY IT support
No experience required
Security & scam alerts
Honest product reviews
💡Maximizing Your Subscription
🎁 Subscriber Benefits
- Fortnightly Delivery: 26 issues per year of fresh tips and advice
- Online Access: Digital edition readable on any device
- Tutorial Library: Searchable archive of past tutorials and guides
- Expert Q&A: Submit your tech questions for expert answers
- Security Alerts: Stay informed about latest scams and threats
- Product Reviews: Independent testing before you buy
- Newsletter Exclusives: Bonus tips and offers by email
- Reader Community: Connect with other readers for advice
🛠️Building Computer Confidence
📈 Skill Development Path
- Month 1-2: Master basics—file management, email, web browsing
- Month 3-4: Security essentials—passwords, antivirus, scam awareness
- Month 5-6: Productivity—Microsoft Office, photo management, video calls
- Month 7-12: Advanced skills—customization, troubleshooting, optimization
- Year 2+: Independence—confidently solve problems and help others
💡 Learning Tip: Don’t feel pressured to read every article. Focus on what’s relevant to you now, and save other sections for when you need them. Computeractive is designed to be your ongoing reference guide.
🎓Additional Resources
Visit the Computeractive website for breaking news, additional tutorials, product reviews, and reader forums where you can ask questions.
Join the Computeractive community forum to ask questions, share tips, and connect with other readers facing similar tech challenges.
Follow Computeractive on Facebook and Twitter for daily tips, quick fixes, security alerts, and special offers.
🛡️Essential Security Practices
🔐 Stay Safe Online (Computeractive’s Top Tips)
- Use Strong Passwords: 12+ characters, mix of letters, numbers, symbols
- Enable 2FA: Two-factor authentication adds crucial security layer
- Keep Updated: Install Windows and software updates promptly
- Use Antivirus: Install reputable security software and keep it current
- Be Skeptical: Question unexpected emails, calls, and messages
- Backup Regularly: Protect against ransomware and hardware failure
- Think Before Clicking: Hover over links to check destinations
💻Essential Software Recommendations
🆓 Free Tools Computeractive Recommends:
- LibreOffice: Free alternative to Microsoft Office
- Thunderbird: Excellent free email client
- GIMP: Powerful free photo editing software
- VLC Media Player: Plays virtually any video or audio format
- CCleaner: Clean temporary files and optimize PC (free version)
- Malwarebytes: Free malware scanner for security checks
🌐Complementary Reading
📰 Related UK Tech Publications
- PC Pro: More advanced technical coverage
- TechRadar: Latest tech news and reviews
- Trusted Reviews: Independent product testing
- Which? Computing: Consumer advice and reviews
- Windows Help & Advice: Companion magazine for Windows users
📅 Stay Current: Technology changes constantly, and so does Computeractive. With fortnightly issues, you’ll always have:
- Latest Windows tips and new feature explanations
- Up-to-date security warnings about current scams
- Recent product reviews for informed buying decisions
- Timely tutorials for new software and services
- Seasonal advice (tax returns, holiday tech prep, etc.)
🎁 Gift Subscription Ideas: Pair a Computeractive subscription with practical gifts:
- USB flash drive for backups (16-64GB)
- Ergonomic mouse or keyboard
- Webcam cover for privacy
- Large-print keyboard stickers (for seniors)
- Basic antivirus software subscription
- Password manager gift subscription
This combination gives them both knowledge and tools to use technology confidently!
🌟 Why Computeractive Matters in 2025
- Digital Inclusion: Helps everyone participate in digital society regardless of age or experience
- Scam Protection: Keeps vulnerable users safe from increasingly sophisticated fraud
- Cost Savings: Helps readers fix problems themselves instead of paying for expensive tech support
- Confidence Building: Transforms technology from intimidating to empowering
- Family Connection: Enables video calls and social media use to stay connected
- Independence: Provides self-sufficiency in an increasingly digital world
- Honest Advice: Independent reviews help make smart purchasing decisions
- Accessibility: Jargon-free language makes tech understandable for everyone