ON SECURITY By Susan Bradley Technology is one of those purchases best done personally. It’s often hard to know how people like their technology, but
[See the full post at: Gifts for your computer]
Susan Bradley Patch Lady/Prudent patcher
![]() |
Patch reliability is unclear. Unless you have an immediate, pressing need to install a specific patch, don't do it. |
SIGN IN | Not a member? | REGISTER | PLUS MEMBERSHIP |
Home » Forums » Newsletter and Homepage topics » Gifts for your computer
Tags: backup Buying a new PC Buying PCs Hardware Upgrades Internet connectivity Newsletters Patch Lady Posts Refurbished Equipment security
ON SECURITY By Susan Bradley Technology is one of those purchases best done personally. It’s often hard to know how people like their technology, but
[See the full post at: Gifts for your computer]
Susan Bradley Patch Lady/Prudent patcher
We have had bad luck with refurbished PCs and their significant discounts have been more than offset by the time it has taken to try to repair and then replace them based upon:
Also, make sure that the refurbished computer supports Windows 11.
We will never again purchase a refurbished PC.
In the past, I have had excellent experiences with refurbished PCs from known reliable refurbishers (like Dell and HP from their websites).
I would never buy one one from an unknown third-party refurbisher (like some of those listed on Best Buy, Amazon, etc). You never know what you get until you get it.
You never know what you are geting until it stops working – hopefully while it still covered by its warranty.
On one refurbished laptop we ran into a problem when we tried to reinstall Windows. It had not gone through the factory reset process. When we tried to reinstall Windows we received a request to login via the former owners server to activate the operating system. Obviously, we did not have access to the former owner’s server. Fortunately, we were able to return the laptop for a replacement.
If you purchase a refurbished computer, check its in-service date upon receipt. If it is more than a couple of months you may face problems later.
For HP computers you can look at the warranty start date using the HP Support Assistant.
I’m with PK, when I get them from the manufacturers, I’ve had no issues.
Susan Bradley Patch Lady/Prudent patcher
Think about it. You can get good deals on refurbished from the manufacturers – but you can also get good deals on new equipment.
Just went to the HP Store’s Top Deal site and found the following:
And the HP site has more good deals including a re-manufactured unit.
Lets keep it Real Simple, everyone needs a list of:
The 64 Best Tech Gifts That Are Sure to Impress
By Stefanie Waldek and Quinn Gawronski – Updated on December 5, 2023
“These gift ideas work for everyone from the tech lovers to tech novices. Gifting can be a complicated topic, especially when it comes to tech products. Everyone has different preferences, and you might not know which tech products your giftee already has. But that doesn’t mean you should shy away from buying a tech gift for a loved one. Check out some of our favorite products for gifting across a wide budget range, whether you’re shopping for your mom, dad, boyfriend, or best friend.”
Birdwatchers rejoice, the Netvue Birdfy Feeder AI camera is chock full of essential features including the world’s leading AI algorithm recognizing more than 6000 types and species of birds for you. Haven’t you always dreamed about an AI bird feeder?
Haven’t you always dreamed about an AI bird feeder?
I dream of an AI Parrot.
Donations from Plus members keep this site going. You can identify the people who support AskWoody by the Plus badge on their avatars.
AskWoody Plus members not only get access to all of the contents of this site -- including Susan Bradley's frequently updated Patch Watch listing -- they also receive weekly AskWoody Plus Newsletters (formerly Windows Secrets Newsletter) and AskWoody Plus Alerts, emails when there are important breaking developments.
Welcome to our unique respite from the madness.
It's easy to post questions about Windows 11, Windows 10, Win8.1, Win7, Surface, Office, or browse through our Forums. Post anonymously or register for greater privileges. Keep it civil, please: Decorous Lounge rules strictly enforced. Questions? Contact Customer Support.
Want to Advertise in the free newsletter? How about a gift subscription in honor of a birthday? Send an email to sb@askwoody.com to ask how.
Mastodon profile for DefConPatch
Mastodon profile for AskWoody
Home • About • FAQ • Posts & Privacy • Forums • My Account
Register • Free Newsletter • Plus Membership • Gift Certificates • MS-DEFCON Alerts
Copyright ©2004-2025 by AskWoody Tech LLC. All Rights Reserved.