Buying a computer system/Is ebay software a good idea?

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Expert: - 9/17/2008


Question
Hi, I have been wondering what would be the pros and cons of purchasing
software, such as vista or leopard off of ebay.  I have heard of people doing this
and getting good deals, but I want to be sure about security risks before I try
doing it myself.  Is there any way to know for sure how safe this software would
be if the seller says it is new/never been installed?

Answer
I wouldn't be worried so much about viruses or safety in that aspect, but in terms of actually getting legal copies of the software, that could be a very big problem (as piracy of things like Windows Vista is fairly big). I'd suggest looking at resellers like www.newegg.com or www.tigerdirect.com for software, thats about as cheap as you can get software without doing something somewhat shady, or being connected to an educational/corporate entity that gets volume pricing discounts.

-bob

Buying a computer system

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Bobbert

Expertise

I have nearly two decades of experience in IT, computer repair, and related fields and will attempt to provide the most solid, brand-agnostic advice when it comes time to purchase a new computer, or upgrade an existing machine. I can answer anything from the seemingly basic to the downright complicated - and will do my best to provide this information in a clear and concise manner.

Experience

I have been an enthusiast of PC's for many years, and can answer questions about the purchase/use of a new computer or the purchase, installation, and use of upgrades for existing computers. There probably isn't a whole lot related to the home computer that I haven't seen over the years.

Education/Credentials
15+ years of experience

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