One in ten young people online have a shortfall in computing knowledge according to new research by HP

Almost one in ten young people have a shortfall in computing knowledge according to a report into the state of the Nation's tech know-how. The YouGov online survey of 4,500 consumers, conducted by PC manufacturer HP, found that 9% of respondents aged 18-34 considered their knowledge of computers and technology to be 'low' compared to 61% who considered themselves to have a medium level of knowledge.

In an age where computers are central to so many parts of life, this knowledge gap is something the younger generation is conscious of. More than a third (38%) of 18-34 year olds that responded to the survey said that they felt there was a gap between their current and desired level of understanding when it comes to computers.

For almost half of adults online, getting to grips with their computer doesn't stop at simply using it - 46% felt it was 'very important' to also have some knowledge of computer maintenance. With this in mind, and with a nod to the Nation's love of DIY, 58% of all respondents would usually attempt to fix their own computer if it wasn't working at its full potential.

The research was conducted to mark the launch of the UK's first HP Total Care Centre, a destination offering a fully integrated service for customers seeking advice, guidance or looking to get their PC serviced. Located in London's Paddington Basin, the Total Care Centre gives HP customers a chance to interact directly with a team of expert staff and partners in order to get the best out of their computer and learn more about how to use and maintain it.

Paul Hunter, General Manager of HP UK & Ireland, commented, "It's concerning to see that people don't feel that they have the skills they need when it comes to using a computer. Given the current challenges of the economy, it's important that all generations are equipped with the skills they need to be competitive in the workplace and beyond. As such, I'm excited by the launch of the HP Total Care Centre – we consider this to be an innovative investment in customer engagement, working with HP customers to enrich their experience of using a PC to ensure they get the best from it."

The HP Total Care Centre is open to the public now as the first of its kind in the UK. The expert team of advisors stationed on site will welcome any existing HP customers or those wanting to learn more about HP personal computers.

HP Customers that would like to gain more computing confidence and independence can also attend a free seminar called "Getting started with HP". The weekly, hour long sessions starting later this month will cover a range of topics including software protection, 'how to guides' and guidance on getting the most from a PC.

Customers with an HP PC currently within its warranty period can book an appointment at the Centre to have their PC serviced free of charge. For more information on the HP Total Care Centre, please visit hp.co.uk/totalcarecenter.

Find the HP Total Care Centre: 4 Merchant Square, Paddington Basin, London, W2 1AQ.

All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 4535 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 24th-28th August. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all UK adults (aged 18+).