Computer Help and Support

Some of them were literally other people's trash that I diverted from the e-waste bins.

Linux makes it easier.

The last "new" computer I bought was a shop-worn 386 for $300. It came with Windows 3.1 pre-installed. That's the most I've ever paid for a computer.

The last Microsoft product I used at home was Windows 98SE, just so I could use the Opera Web browser, which is what I first logged onto DU with.

I switched to Linux soon after Opera offered a Linux version.

I used to like refurbished Chromebooks but the newer models no longer allow the site blocking, script blocking, and ad blocking software that makes the internet tolerable for me. They've also made upgrading these machines to Linux difficult. They still may be fine for people who use their computers mostly for internet browsing, email, and some writing.

Our Best Buy used to have a shelf of open box and refurbished computers clearly marked with very reasonable prices. You could just pick one up and buy it. But now you have to go through a sales person simply to learn the price, which is very annoying because they will try to sell you something more expensive.