Knowing how to deal with computer issues when they arise and also knowing your computer is performing at its best.
Make a list of the goals you have set for yourself and list what equipment you think you will need to be able to record and capture your musical performances. You will most likely need a microphone for recording vocals, some sort of audio / midi interface for your computer, cables for your instruments, etc...
Don't just buy the first thing that jumps out at you or that a sales person suggests. Ask yourself what you are trying to do and what is available out there to help you achieve the results. If you are a beginner, there is no harm at starting with basic cheap gear and workjing your way up threw upgrades over time. its better to invest less in the begining and decide if your going to sticvk with it rather than waste a lot of money just to find that you have bitten off more than you can chew. Think, think, think!
Set Goals for youself and deadlines to meet them!
Don't make the simple mistake of diving into the deep end and trying to learn everything at once when it comes to recording software and hardware. Its important to pace yourself and master your gear.
Set youself deadlines for each piece of gear and spend the time learning your gear until your deadline has been met. Most people don't realise how time consuming it is to learn recording software and equipment. Yes, you can learn the basic and get by after jumping threw hoops, or you can master your tools and increase your overall productivity and creativity. There is nothing worst than being in a recording session with a producer that does not know his software or hardware well... You can sometimes loose the spark of a session if you are not careful.