CNET How To
Need to know how to do something? You've come to the right place. This page contains a collection of all the walk-through how-to articles we've written to help you get more out of the technology you own. Bookmark it and come back regularly to see what's new.
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How to root the Samsung Galaxy S4
Take more control over your Samsung Galaxy S4 by using our guide to help you root it.
25 Samsung Galaxy S4 tips
The Samsung Galaxy S4 might just be the most feature-packed smart phone ever. Here's how to make the most of it.
Samsung Galaxy S4 camera guide
If you're lucky enough to have a shiny new Samsung Galaxy S4, you're no doubt itching to make the most of its brilliant camera.
How to hack apps into multi-window mode on Galaxy Note 2
The Note 2's brilliant split-screen capability lets you use two apps at once, but it doesn't support many. Here's how to get more.
How to recover a bricked Galaxy Ace 2 to factory settings
If your Samsung Galaxy Ace 2 won't boot, or you just want to restore it after a spot of rooting, we've got you covered.
25 tips for the BlackBerry Z10
There are loads of differences in BB10, the latest version of the BlackBerry OS, so a generous helping of tips and shortcuts is in order.
How to restore a Galaxy Note 2 from rooted to factory settings
Had enough of customised Android? Or has your Note 2 been bricked while you've been tinkering with it? You've come to the right place.
Top 10 S Pen stylus apps for the Samsung Galaxy Note 2
We explore the murky depths of the Google Play and Samsung stores to find brilliant apps that use the Note 2's S Pen stylus.
25 tips for the Sony Xperia Z
Sony's top of the range Android phone for 2013 is a waterproof pocket rocket -- here's 25 quick tips for getting the most out of it.
10 useful tips for your Nokia Lumia 620
Nokia's Lumia 620 is fantastic value, and could well be your first foray into Windows Phone. Here's 10 things you might not know it can do.
How to get the Google Play store on the Kindle Fire HD
Tired of the Amazon Appstore's meagre selection? Help is at hand -- we show you how to install the vast Google Play Store on your tablet.
How to root the Kindle Fire HD
If you want to install other apps and use Android as it was meant to be used, you'll need to root your Kindle Fire HD. Here's how.
How to get Maps, Gmail on the Kindle Fire HD without rooting
Amazon doesn't offer Google's services on its app store, but it's not too tricky to install them yourself. Here's now.
Top 5 custom ROMs for the Google Nexus 4
The brilliant Nexus 4 is well catered with custom ROMs -- special versions of Android that make things faster, smoother or more intuitive.
How to customise the Kindle Fire HD's carousel and favourites
The Kindle Fire HD's central carousel is a jumbled collection of everything you've opened recently -- let's find out how to tidy it up.
How to root your Google Nexus 4
As a fearless Android enthusiast with your eager mitts on Google's new super phone, you'll be champing at the bit to root it. Here's how.
How to install Jelly Bean on the Samsung Galaxy Ace 2
Frustrated at being stuck on boring old Android Gingerbread? Once you've rooted your Galaxy Ace 2, you can zip to brand-new Jelly Bean.
How to root the Samsung Galaxy Ace 2
The Ace 2 is a tidy little smart phone for a reasonable price, but there's much more fun to be had. Let's start by rooting it.
How to personalise Windows 8
You can make your Windows 8 PC look unique -- not just with live tiles, but with colours, background patterns and lock-screen wallpapers.
25 essential iPad mini tips
Use these tricks, tips and tools to get the most out of Apple's tiny tablet.
How to transfer files from an SD card onto a Nexus 7
The Nexus 7 doesn't have an SD card slot, but it's easy to use an SD card reader to transfer your photos.
Top 5 custom ROMs for the HTC One X
Not sure which ROM to run on your HTC One X? Check our five of our favourites.
Top 5 custom ROMs for the Samsung Galaxy Note 2
Rooted your Galaxy Note 2? You'll be champing at the bit to try out new software -- we've tested five of the best stable ROMs.
How to install Android 2.3 on the Raspberry Pi
Android 2.3 is available for the Raspberry Pi -- here's how to download and install it on the micro-computer right now.
25 Google Nexus 4 Tips
These 25 handy hints will enable you to get the most out of your bargain of a quad-core Jelly Bean monster.
25 Windows Phone 8 tips
New to Windows Phone 8? Read our top 25 tips to help you get started and make the most of your new blower.
How to root the Samsung Galaxy Note 2
If you're the proud new owner of a jumbo-sized Galaxy Note 2 and want to play around with customs ROMs, you'll need to root it. Here's how.
25 fun things to do with a Raspberry Pi
Time to get creative with your computing -- here are our favourite fun things you can do with your Raspberry Pi.
How to get started with the Raspberry Pi
If the Raspberry Pi has set your coding passions alight, but you need a little advice on setting it up, you've come to the right place.
50 essential photography tips
Can't afford a photography course? Not a problem. Our 50 essential photography tips will help you get more familiar with your pocket snapper.
Access a PC anywhere using an iOS or Android mobile 
We show you how to use two free apps to sync the files on your computer with your phone and let you access it while you're out and about.
How to take great photos with an HTC One X
Want to snap some super pics on your smart phone? We take one of this year's top Android handsets, the HTC One X, and show you how.
25 HTC One X tips
HTC's mighty One X is more than just a powerhouse -- its Sense interface is packed full of useful tweaks and handy features.
How to make Windows 8 look like Windows 7
We reveal how to water down or ignore some of Windows 8's more controversial features and restore functionality you thought had vanished.
How to upgrade Windows 7 to Windows 8
The wait is over -- the official release of Windows 8 is available for you to upgrade your Windows PC. Follow this guide on how to do it.
How to improve your Android security
Android is the mobile equivalent of Windows -- hugely popular and open to security threats such as malware. Here's how to keep safe.
How to recover a bricked Samsung Galaxy S3
Installing a custom ROM can bring big benefits but what happens if it all goes wrong? Here's how to recover your bricked S3.
Top 5 Samsung Galaxy S3 custom ROMs
Install a custom ROM on your Galaxy S3 and you could get a faster, fancier phone with longer battery life. Here are the five best ROMs.
25 Samsung Galaxy Note 2 tips
Get your S Pen at the ready and take down some of these tips on getting the best out of your Samsung Galaxy Note 2.
How to get Jelly Bean on your Samsung Galaxy S3
If you can't wait for the Android Jelly Bean update to reach your phone, follow this guide and install a custom ROM on your Galaxy S3.
Top six custom ROMs for the Google Nexus 7
We've rooted around in the jungle of custom ROMs for the Google Nexus 7 so you don't have trawl the forums. Here's our top six.
How to set up an Android tablet as a second display
Hook up an Android tablet to your computer as an easy alternative to buying a second screen, with this handy guide.
How to trim your SIM to iPhone 5 nano-SIM size
Want to squeeze your current SIM card into your brand new iPhone 5? Check out our DIY guide to find out how.
How to transfer data between Macs with Migration Assistant
Here's how to take the drudgery out of transferring all your films, photos and music from your old computer onto your shiny new Mac.
40 ways to fix your PC before you call an expert
Windows can be scary place if you're no computer expert and your PC goes wrong, but most glitches can be solved by following these tips.
How to manage apps on your Android Jelly Bean phone
Here's how to easily send apps to your shiny new Android Jelly Bean phone from a PC, then update, manage or remove them if they misbehave.
50 iOS 6 tips: Panorama, Apple Maps, reading list and more
Apple's latest operating system for iPad, iPhone and the iPod touch is its smartest yet. Here's our top 50 tips to get the most from it.
How to digitise your vinyl
Your smart phone's a clever gadget but it can't play your vinyl collection (yet). You'll need to record it to MP3 first. Here's how.
How to build a budget gaming PC for under £350
Want to play some hot-looking new games but don't want to spend a fortune on a PC? Step this way for everything you need to know.
How to save battery life on your Google Nexus 7
The Google Nexus 7 packs a decent battery, but if you want to eke even more enjoyment out of this fine tablet, follow this guide.
How to stream video to an iPad or iPhone using VLC Streamer
You don't have to splurge on a pricey media server to stream films and songs from your PC to your iPad or iPhone. Do it for free like this.
How to root your Google Nexus 7
If you're brave and like to tinker, rooting your Google Nexus 7 could unleash the potential of this powerful Android tablet. Here's how.
How to record calls on your Samsung Galaxy S2 and S3
Did you know you're only a hop, skip and an app from being able to record calls on your Galaxy S2? Find out how with our handy guide.
25 Google Nexus 7 tips
The excellent and cheap-as-chips Google Nexus 7 is a powerful little Android tablet. Get the best out of it with these top tips.
How to print from your Samsung Galaxy S2
Want to print directly from your Galaxy S2? You're just an app and our how-to guide away from mobile printing nirvana.
How to save a wet mobile phone - and what not to do
When your phone does a Tom Daley and somersaults into the bath, you'll need a solution, fast. Keep these tips in mind for when it happens.
How to make HD movies on your Samsung Galaxy S3
You've got a pocketful of megapixels and a phone with a punchy processor, now put your Android to use making a movie with these top tips.
How to use Windows 8 Task Manager
The most neglected feature of Windows since it landed in 1995, Task Manager has finally received some love in Windows 8. Here's what's new.
How to make HD movies on your iPhone 4 or 4S
With just a few quid, you can buy the apps and accessories needed to become an iPhone movie-making auteur.
How to sync your iPhone, iPad with Mountain Lion via iCloud
Got Apple gadgets spilling out of every pocket, satchel and rucksack? You'll want all your calendars and settings synced then. Here's how.
How to develop Android apps
If Apple's strict app approval process puts you off developing apps, why not start by learning to code for Android? Read this how-to guide.
How to unlock your Samsung Galaxy S3
Got your hands on a Galaxy S3 but it's locked to a different network? You need to unlock that beast. Here's how.
How to turn your Raspberry Pi into an XBMC media centre
Turn the £20 Raspberry Pi mini computer into a XBMC media centre for watching iPlayer, 4oD, ITV Player and Demand 5 with this guide.
How to root your Samsung Galaxy S3
If you fancy using extra-powerful apps and custom software on your Galaxy S3, you'll need to root it. Andrew Hoyle explains how.
How to change default programs in Windows 8
Windows 8 chooses its default players to run your music and video but what if you want different programs to open your files? Here's how.
How to log in directly to the classic desktop in Windows 8
If you'd rather be taken to the traditional desktop interface upon booting up Windows 8, not the new Start screen, follow this handy tip.
How to use Dictation in Mac OS X Mountain Lion
Turn voice to text with the nifty Dictation feature built into the new version of Mac OS X, Mountain Lion.
How to boot into safe mode in Windows 8
If you're finding it tricky accessing safe mode in Windows 8 Release Preview, here's the solution.
How to secure your personal data on social networks
Worried about handing over personal data via apps you use in social networks like Facebook and Twitter? Take control with this guide.
How to use your iPad as an external monitor over Wi-Fi
Connect your gorgeous iPad display to a desktop computer to use it as an impressive second monitor over Wi-Fi.
How to stream music to a speaker from your iPad
Unless you love annoying folk on the bus by blasting out tinny dubstep, you'll want to hear your tunes through a good speaker. Here's how.
How to backup files on multiple cloud storage services
Up to your eyeballs in various cloud services like Dropbox and SkyDrive but can't share your files across all of them? Here's how.
How to use motion features on your Samsung Galaxy S3
From muting incoming calls by turning your S3 over to grabbing screenshots, try exploring the new Samsung Galaxy's nifty motion settings.
How to DJ on your iPad
You don't have to lug decks across town any more to mash up some tunes at a party. Just whip out an iPad and start DJing with this guide.
How to protect your passwords with LastPass
If your heart sinks every time your favourite web service has its passwords hacked, protect your growing list of logins wiith LastPass.
How to use S Beam on your Samsung Galaxy S3
If you want to send large image, video or song files from one Galaxy S3 to another, Samsung has come up with S Beam. Here's how to use it.
How to make your Samsung Galaxy S3 more secure
Security should be at the top of everyone's priority list when it comes to smart phones. Fortunately it isn't difficult to implement.
How to maximise your Samsung Galaxy S3's battery life
Fed up of your Android phone spluttering to a stop after a few hours' fun? Eke out a little more battery time with these handy tips.
50 essential Chrome tips
Polish up on your Chrome skills and get the most out of Google's web browser with our 50 top tips.
How to start developing apps for Windows 8
With the launch of the Windows 8 operating system on the horizon, what better time to get into app development? Here's how to get started.
How to use turn-by-turn navigation in iOS 6
Having dropped Google's Maps like a hot potato, Apple's brought its own take on turn-by-turn navigation to iOS 6. Here's what to expect.
How to use iOS 6's Do Not Disturb feature
Apple's new anti-social networking function on iOS 6, Do Not Disturb, allows you to silence incoming phone calls. Here's how.
How to make music on your iPad using ReBirth
You don't have to look any further than your iPad to build a pounding electro tune. Follow this guide to using ReBirth and get producing.
50 Windows 8 tips
Everything you need to know about installing and getting the most out of Microsoft's Windows 8 Release Preview and its Metro interface.
How to change your Amazon Kindle's screensaver
Amazon won't let you to change the screensaver images on its Kindles so follow this guide if you're fed up of the pre-installed gallery.
How to manage your contacts and photos in Windows 8
Getting to grips with Windows 8? Here's how to get the People and Photos apps grabbing your friends' pics and info from all your services.
How to use Windows 8's new interface
As the official launch of Windows 8 looms, and with the Release Preview now out in the wild, here's our guide to using the new Metro UI.
How to go back to a stock Android ROM on Samsung Galaxy S2
Have you installed a custom ROM on your Android but now want to get back on the straight and narrow with the official ICS OS? Then read on.
How to recover a bricked Samsung Galaxy S2
Been up to no good playing around with your phone's firmware, have we? Left with a lifeless plastic brick? Revive your S2 with this guide.
How to remotely lock and wipe a lost Android phone
When your phone goes walkies, you'll wish you'd installed security software to lock it down and find it. Do it now with this handy guide!
How to use NFC tags with your Android mobile phone
NFC tech on mobiles is set to take off in 2012, with a surge in NFC-enabled handsets. Here's our guide to using NFC tags with your Android.
How to share your iTunes music library on a home network
The built-in sharing tools on iTunes make it easy to listen to a library of music on several machines on your home network. Here's how.
How to switch from Google Docs, Reader and Picasa
Google has made it easy to export documents, pictures and social postings should you want to switch to an alternative service. Here's how.
How to switch from Google emails, contacts and calendars
If you don't like Google's new privacy policy, it's easy to export your calendars, contacts and emails to other services. Here's how.
Best custom ROMs for the Samsung Galaxy S2
Not impressed by the Ice Cream Sandwich Android upgrade on your Samsung Galaxy S2? Then go off-piste with an unofficial interface.
How to read and listen to music, Facebook share on a Kindle
The Kindle is far more capable than Amazon lets on. Here's 10 little-known features to make your ebook experience even more rewarding.
How to embed tunes on your site with Spotify Play Button
Spotify now lets you embed tunes in websites. Here's what it looks like and how to do it.
How to use Tasker on Android
Your smart phone's not smart enough for ya, huh? Boost your Samsung Galaxy S2's dexterity using the excellent Tasker app.
How to install and use Launcher Pro on Android
Frustrated by the homescreen launchers pre-loaded onto your phone? Looking for a purer Android experience? Then check out Launcher Pro.
50 Twitter tips
Not just another time-waster's tool, Twitter is a powerful way to network and share info. Here's our guide for rookies and old hats alike.
How to use Social Hub on your Samsung Galaxy S2
Are you making best use of the Social Hub on your Samsung Galaxy S2? Follow this video guide to become a social networking god.
How to install Ice Cream Sandwich on your Samsung Galaxy S2
Install Android Ice Cream Sandwich on your Galaxy S2 before Samsung officially gets around to releasing it. Now with video walk-through!
How to nuke your Google history before new policy on 1 March
Did you know every search item or link you click in Google is recorded? Learn how to delete your search history.
How to stream video from your Samsung Galaxy S2 to your PS3
Here's how to stream music and video from your phone to your TV though your PlayStation 3, via the niftiness of DLNA.
How to stream Google Music on your Samsung Galaxy S2
Using the Samsung Galaxy S2, we show you how to stream your music on any Android or iDevice via the Google Music cloud storage service.
How to improve Internet browsing speed and reliability
Good browsing doesn't just depend on a high Mbps -- in this video guide we show you how to setup a fast and stable connection.
How to make free iPhone ringtones
Why waste your pocket money on the latest ringtones for your iPhone when you can make your own for free with this handy 30 second video guide?
Android phone battery-saving tips
You'll quickly realise that your powerful new Android smart phone has a shorter lifespan than a mayfly. Here's how to prolong the battery.
Android phone GPS tips
Android phones know where they are, but add a few apps and they'll tell you where to go, how to get there and what to expect when you arrive.
How to migrate from Windows to Ubuntu
Ever considered switching your OS from Windows to Ubuntu? Wait, don't run off in fear! Follow our step-by-step guide and reap the benefits.
50 Android tips
If you've just bought an Android phone, we've put together 50 tips on how to get the most from your new Google-powered device.
How to stream video or music to a TV, Xbox or PS3 using DLNA
Want to stream music, photos or video from your PC onto your TV or games console? Find out how with our handy guide.
How to track your broadband data usage on PC or Mac
If you're a streaming and download junkie, you risk busting your monthly broadband data limit. Here's how to keep track of your usage.
How to stream live TV to your mobile phone
If you secretly live in fear of missing an episode of X Factor while on a night out (shame on you), follow our guide to streaming live TV on your phone.
Access hidden iPhone features without jailbreaking
We uncover the secret and easy way to add panoramic photos and Android-style autocorrect to the iPhone without touching a jailbreak tool.
How to update HTC Desire to Android 2.3 Gingerbread
Find out how to install Gingerbread on an HTC Desire without losing any data in our step-by-step video guide.
How to play Android games with your PS3 controller
The Sixaxis Controller app lets you control games on your Android device using a PlayStation 3 controller. Watch our video to find out how to install it.
How to use Find My Mac in iCloud
If a miscreant has purloined your Mac, you can use iCloud's Find My Mac feature to locate and, hopefully, retrieve your laptop. Watch our video to find out how.
iCloud: How to setup Back to My Mac
Back to My Mac lets you connect remotely to your home or office Mac over the Internet. Watch our video tutorial to learn how to set it up.
How to position your speakers perfectly
Follow our guide to speaker placement if you want to get the very best from every beat of music you listen to.
How to stream movies and music from home to your mobile using Plex
Streaming music and movies from your home PC or Mac to your Android or iPhone is easy by simply installing Plex. Here's our step-by-step video guide.
OS X Lion gestures explained
Apple's OS X Lion is the most gesture-reliant operating system yet shipped by any manufacturer. Watch our efficiency-boosting video guide to Mac Lion's 14 new gestures.
iOS 5: How to set up geotagged Reminders
The Reminders app in iOS 5 will let you set reminders based on location, as well as time. Here's our video guide on how to set up location-based alerts.
iOS 5: How to use iPhone's native Twitter tools
Make the most of the new native Twitter tools in iOS 5 with our video guide full of handy tips, such as how to tweet directly from core apps.
iOS 5: How to use home sharing
Watch our video to master iTunes' Home Sharing feature, which lets you access your entire music collection over your home network, giving your iPhone unlimited capacity.
How to change the Windows desktop theme on your PC
There are a wealth of stunning themes out there to transform your boring old Windows destkop into something beautiful. See our handy guide to find out how.
How to get the best Wi-Fi signal from your router
Make sure your router is giving out the best wireless signal possible with our handy guide.
Borrow ebooks from your local library... without even going there
There's no need to whisper or turn off your phone -- you can borrow ebooks from home!
How to use any printer from your iPhone or iPad
You don't need to buy a new printer to print from your iPhone or iPad.
How to use Facebook subscriptions
We show you how to cut down on noise and use Facebook's subscription chatter to promote your own posts.
How to get Siri-like voice control on the iPhone 4 for free
You needn't spend an arm and a leg on an iPhone 4S to enjoy voice recognition. These five free apps for older iPhones will do the job.
How to use WordPress as a basic CMS
We show you how to setup WordPress as a basic content management system, giving you a more efficient way of organising stacks of content.
How to record calls on an iPhone for free
Call recording may not be built into the iPhone, but that doesn't mean it's impossible. Using the free iPadio app, our guide shows you how.
How to set up a cheap home security system using Dynamic DNS
IP webcams are rapidly falling in price, making them the perfect set-up for use in a low-cost home security system.
How to geotag your photos and plot them on a Flickr map
We show you how, with the help of free software, you can have all the benefits of GPS on an older, non-GPS camera.
Fifty iOS 5 tips
Watch our iOS 5 video with the 50 essential tips that will help you get the most out of the latest software for the iPhone, iPad and iPod touch.
iCloud: How to use Photo Stream
iCloud's Photo Stream feature synchronises your 1,000 most recent images across all of your iOS devices. Here's how to use it.
How to sync iWork with iCloud
No longer must you physically connect your iOS device to your computer to transfer work files. Here's how to do it with iCloud.
iCloud: How to set up email reminders and memos
Here's how to set up iCloud so you can email yourself reminders that won't get lost in your inbox. You'll never forget to buy milk again.
iOS 5: How to sync your iPhone over Wi-Fi
The iPhone's greatest flaw has long been the need to connect it physically to iTunes. With iOS 5, your iPhone and iPad can break free.
Five ways to print wirelessly
We take a closer look at the ways you can take advantage of a printer's wireless features.
How to install and test WordPress on a local server
Set up a free local server on your PC or Mac so you can run a new WordPress site without your work being visible to the world.
How to install Windows 8 alongside your normal OS
Try Windows 8 alongside your regular OS on both PC and Mac by downloading Oracle's free VirtualBox software and following our instructions.
How to root your Samsung Galaxy S2
If you want to install a custom ROM on your Galaxy S2, you'll need to root it first. We show you how to do that in seven easy-to-follow steps.
How to use Google+ privacy settings
Sometimes you just don't want your grandma to see those pictures of you drunk and naked. So here's how to ensure some privacy in Google+.
How to back up Kindle purchases on your PC or Mac
Here we'll show you how to save yourself the hassle of resurrecting your digital library by backing up your Kindle purchases to your computer.
How to use Facebook Friend Lists for greater privacy
The Friend Lists feature lets you control who can see what on your Facebook page. Here's how to use it, and reap the rewards of greater privacy.
How to create a Twitter background
Need to make your Twitter page stand out from the crowd? What you need is a custom background, friend. Here's how to make one.
How to create ebooks using OS X Lion
Here's how to create your very own ebook using nothing more than a few text files and the tools bundled in Mac Lion. JK Rowling had better watch out.
How to use OS X Lion AirDrop
Mac Lion's AirDrop feature lets you wirelessly share files between compatible Macs with no configuration or set-up required. Here's how to use it.
Ten essential OS X Lion tips
Not all the tweaks in Apple's Mac Lion operating system are everyone's cup of tea. Here's how to reverse some of the new features that might get your goat, among other tips.
How to install OS X Lion on multiple Macs with only one download
Downloading Mac Lion to multiple computers will prove a headache for some Apple fans. Here's how to save bandwidth and time when downloading your own pride of Lions.
How to recover OS X Lion
Apple's OS X 10.7 software is currently a download only. But what if your Mac refuses to boot one morning? How do you get Mac Lion roaring again without access to the Mac App Store? Here's how.
Crave
How to survive the zombie apocalypse
To help you survive the inevitable arrival of the zombie hordes, our how-to video is sure to keep your brain in your skull.
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