Refurbished computers can be found almost everywhere, including those in online stores and some internet auctions. This does not mean that you should run out immediately and pick for yourself a refurbished computer when you need it. Careful research and planning in advance is needed. Below are some of the things that you should know before purchasing a refurbished computer.

1. Think about your current and future computer needs. A refurbished computer that has been used for three years have enough quality to run the Microsoft Office but the processor will not support the latest video software. Think about the applications you wanted to install and search in the Internet the minimum system requirements. Make sure that the computer system meets the recommended requirements of the operating system and any applications that you will be using in a regular basis.
2. Buy refurbished computers with identical parts like the hard drive, motherboard, sound card and other computer peripherals.
3. Pay careful attention to the return policy and warranty. Make sure the seller has quick technical support in case there will be some irregularities on the items that you have bought.
4. Determine what operating system, if there are any, which comes along with the computer. Some of the refurbished computers have Windows XP or Windows Vista installed with it while others have none at all. If there is no operating system installed and you plan to configure the computer using an image CD system, be careful not to use clone disc for quick installation of operating system. Bear in mind that you still need licensed software to avoid future problems with other software.
5. Find out what computer peripherals are included in the package. Some refurbished computers rarely have monitor included in the package. If you need wireless network cards, DVD disk drives or other optional peripherals, carefully examine the specification sheet to determine if these are included in the package.
6. The best place to buy a refurbished computer is directly from the manufacturer. The benefit of this is that manufacturers always make sure that even refurbished computers had been given their stamp of approval before it had been disposed for sale. This means that these machines had passed their quality control standard.
7. Naturally, refurbished computers are not guaranteed 100% fail safe. Ask the retailer the history of the item so you can determine whether it is as good as new or if it has undergone extensive repairs in the past.