One of the first pieces of kit that many home business owners buy is a computer. If you don’t want to splash out at the start, use the home computer and upgrade as the business grows.

It’s my turn
Start off by using the home/family computer but as your business grows, you’ll have more data and more need for your own system.

It’s then time to take some decisions. Desktop or laptop? PC or Mac? 

Whichever model takes your fancy and meets your budget, here’s a few things to look out for:

• Processor – this is like the clock-speed of your computer. The higher the number, the faster your computer can run.
• Memory – commonly known as RAM, the more memory you have, the more programmes you can run. So go for as much memory as you can afford. 
• Hard drive – this gives you the space for your data and programmes but you will be able to add to it with an external hard drive.