Now that more Dresden residents are hooked up to more economical, faster and reliable fiberoptic internet, Dresden Digital Equity is launching a series of five free computer training classes during November and December to help residents update and expand computer uses and skills.

Classes will be held at Pownalborough Hall on Mondays from 1 to 2 p.m., followed by an optional question/answer session from 2 to 3 p.m.  Dates are: Nov. 10, Identifying Frauds and Scams; Nov. 17, Windows 11 Basics Part 1; Nov. 24, Windows 11 Basics Part 2;  Dec. 1, Windows 11 Part 3; and Dec. 8, Using Gmail Effectively. Classes could be repeated at a different time for people who cannot  attend Monday afternoons. Other training classes will be added after the holidays, including How to Cut The Cord to stream television shows, movies, other entertainment and educational offerings.

Taylor Oddleifson of Woolwich will lead the classes. He was hired as part-time digital navigator through a contract between DDE and the National Digital Equity Center of Wiscasset, where he works. He will also interview applicants for free laptops that DDE will give to qualifying residents who complete two mandatory internet safety classes.

Residents can contact Oddleifson at 207-315-9035 to discuss and apply for the free laptop computers and indicate interest in internet training classes.