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Buying A Used Computer Step By Step
A complete walk through of buying a used computer from a private seller, from research and questions to inspection, payment, first boot and setup.
Know Your PC
Buying And Selling Used
Evaluating secondhand computers and handing yours on safely.
Checking A Used Desktop Before You Pay
What to look for inside and outside a secondhand tower, including odd smells, loose parts, mismatched components and signs of heavy wear, before you pay.
Factory Reset Versus Clean Reinstall
How a factory reset and a clean reinstall differ, what each one removes, and which fits better when you are selling a computer or fixing a problem.
Giving Your Old Computer A Second Job
Practical ideas for repurposing an old PC, such as a media player, backup target or simple machine for children, with the security cautions that apply.
Inspecting A Used Laptop In Person
A hands-on checklist for inspecting a secondhand laptop in person: screen, keyboard, hinges, ports, battery, fans and signs of heavy wear or repairs.
Is An Older Computer Still Worth Keeping
How to weigh security updates, software support, repair costs and replacement cost when deciding whether to keep an older computer, without relying on lifespans.
Seller Red Flags When Shopping Secondhand
Warning signs in secondhand computer listings and seller conversations, from missing details and stock photos to pressure to pay quickly or off-platform.
Wiping A Computer Before You Sell Or Give It Away
Why deleting files is not enough, which accounts to sign out of first, and general ways to erase a computer's drive before it goes to a new owner.
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