Battery or no battery ?

Hello everyone,

I've just bought a notebool equipped with Vista Home Edition and I hope you
will forgive my ignorance, but I am new to the world of notebooks !
First, I would like to know whether it is better to use the notebook with or
without the battery inside (I hardly move it from my desk). Some people tell
me it is better to leave it inside, some say it is better to use the notebook
without the battery so the battery's life will be prolonged and it will
always be ready for use.
Second, what happens when I leave home for a couple of months or so ? Should
I leave the battery inside then or not, and what will happen to my data if
the notebook remains switched off for such a long time ?

Thank you all for your help, and sorry again for asking silly questions !

Bebecigim
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Bebecigim