8. Don't Forget To Budget For Software

Check what software comes with the machine. Typically this will be at least the operating system and possibly some basic packages such as a word processor and spreadsheet. If there is a particular package that you intend to use, don't forget to add this in to the cost of purchasing. Some software you may need will be available at no charge so investigate this before making a purchase. Some software you need may be available at an educational discount so look at the pricelist in the OUCS shop.

One item of essential software that you should buy is a virus-checker. A virus checker is not a guarantee that your machine will be safe from attack but it will offer protection from known viruses.

Make sure that you keep the disks that your software comes on (and copies of the license keys for the installation). These are as much part of your computer as any of the hardware and they are evidence that you have legal copies of the software. You will need these disks if anything goes wrong with your computer and the software has to be re-installed.

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