Where to Buy
Looking to buy some new software for your computer? Not sure where you should go to buy it? Then read here for some great tips on what you should consider before taking the plunge. Check it out!
When you're buying new software, hardware or even a new computer, you have a few choices of buying locations to choose from. Of course, you can buy from a local retailer or from the Internet, but an auction is also a choice to consider.
A local retailer is probably one of the safest buying locations, but there are still some issues that could arise. Unfortunately, some sales representatives are all about "the sale," so they may tell you incorrect information about the product you're looking at just to seal the deal. Or, even worse, they may not even know any detailed information about the product. Both of those situations hurt only you in the end. If you're talking with a sales rep, ask them to demonstrate what they're explaining to you. That way, you know for sure what the item will do.
Another issue with a local retailer is the return policy. Make sure you know how long you have to return something in case it doesn't quite work the way you wanted it to or ends up breaking. You also need to be aware of the warranty that comes along with your purchase. Make sure it's offered by the manufacturer of the product or by the place of purchase itself.
Now, we all know there are some concerns when ordering online. Online shopping is becoming more popular each day, but with it, comes some extended problems. When you order something from the Internet, be sure the Web site you're ordering from is secure. When you're entering in your credit card number, look at the bottom of the screen to see if there is a small padlock there, like this:
If there is, it means your information will be kept secure and it's okay to continue. You can also look at the Web address for clarification. If there's an "https" at the beginning of the URL, the site is secure. If it just has "http," it's not. If you don't see either of those things, you may want to reconsider your purchase.
You should also make sure the company you're ordering from is well known. If the site doesn't contain contact information for the company, be wary of ordering from them. Be aware of piracy issues as well. These days, it's very easy for anyone to copy material to their own CDs and sell them. You need to make sure what you're buying is an authentic copy by looking for documentation of the product as soon as you receive it. You can also tell if a CD is burnt by the color tint. CDs are usually a greenish or goldish tint. A good phrase to go by is "if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!"
When buying online, you should also check into return policies, warranties and make sure you always keep confirmation e-mails for your records.
Now, another popular buying location is from an auction. You can sometimes get computer products a little cheaper from an auction, but keep a look out for scams by the actual auctioneers. Look into their history and profile before buying anything from an unknown seller. Piracy, return policies and warranties are also issues you should check on when dealing with an auction.
Another type of auction is an online auction, such as eBay. It's recommended to pay by check in that type of situation, if possible. That will help prevent your credit card number from being stolen. If you have to pay by credit card, use a PayPal account for extra security.
When you're buying new computer products, it's better to be safe than sorry. Items may be cheaper at different buying locations, but there are also a lot of different scenarios out there today to look out for. Make sure you do your homework before you make an actual purchase. You'll thank yourself later for doing so. Be safe!
~ Erin
