If you want to run a business online, you need some basic computer skills. Basic computer skills means being able to turn the computer on, write a word processing document, connect to the Internet and navigate through the Internet successfully, then turning the computer off. So actually, the computer skills you need for an Internet marketing online business are a little more than just basic.

When trying to research what computer skills are needed for running an online business, you may find it to be an overwhelming task. Most Internet marketing courses do not mention the basic minimum requirements needed to be able to operate your computer (and online business) effectively.

Skills you will need for using your computer are as follows:

Using Windows XP or Apple OS X operating systems proficiently

Downloading and uploading files

Unzipping Zip files and extracting the files to folders

Cutting (copying) and pasting in word processing documents and other types of forms

Dragging and Dropping files

Saving files

Backing up files

Setting up and READING your email

Organizational skills for information that has been saved on your computer

Using printers, scanners, digital cameras and USB flash drives

Software you will need to learn:

HTML coding (this is really easy to learn)

Graphics software - i.e. RealDRAW, Photoshop, MS Paint, Adobe Illustrator, etc.

HTML editor - i.e. Dreamweaver, Frontpage, NVU, CoffeeCup, Mozilla Composer etc.

(If you want to save a lot of money and have control over your website, you should build it yourself using the programs listed above.)

Domain name registration sites
Web hosting site navigating
Autoresponder site navigating
Word processing
CD/DVD burning
WinZip
AntiVirus program
AntiSpyware program

You should have at least a basic knowledge of the software listed above, and you can develop better skills as you go along. Just jump in and do it! Its really not that hard.

If you are choosing Internet marketing as a new career or just a way to earn extra money, make sure your computer is up to speed. You should be running Windows XP or Apple OS X (Panther or Tiger) operating systems. If your computer is running an earlier operating system, you will need to upgrade to the most recent operating system available. Also, make sure you have at least 512 MB of memory and a larger than 30 gig hard drive. Your processor should be running at 1.5 GHz or above.

With the proper equipment and understanding the proper skill level, you will not be frustrated and have a head start at building a great career.

I wish you GREAT success,