Buying without an Operating System - Some Questions

[AmirThePersian]

Hi. I'm new to the forums here, trying to make sure I know everything about purchasing before I buy. As I'm on a budget, I'd like to ask for details on not buying an Operating System.

1. I remember reading somewhere that if you don't buy an OS, PCS will install a very basic version of Windows 7 for you. Can I ask exactly what version it is, and if it is a trial (i.e. You have to pay to use it later), does it come with product key's etc. It would be useful to know if I could just upgrade windows from the basic version provided by PCS.

2. If you don't select an OS, PCS say that "we strongly recommend that an operating system is supplied and installed by us, as we will be able to support you better should you have any problems." What kind of support would I be missing out on if I don't buy an OS from PCS? I've heard the customer support here is legendary, I wouldn't want to miss it.

Thanks for reading

 

[keynes]

1) it doesn't come with a key because it is a trial version that is valid for around 30 days
2) I think it is related to other operating systems or problems you could create when not installed correctly by the user

 

[Stephen M]

Mine came with a 30-day Windows 8 on it and an option to purchase.
Do you really need Windows? There are plenty of good Linux distros for free, Zorin (http://zorin-os.com/) is designed for users migrating from Windows, especially XP, although I am very happy with Ubuntu (http://www.ubuntu.com/).

 

[dogbot]

What PCS installs is an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) System Builder version of the OS which can only be used on the computer supplied with the OS. What you would be buying is a licence (serial number) to use the software so the OS installation is the same whether or not you buy the licence. PCS normally supply a disc of the OS but not of course if not purchased from them.

Licence keys can be bought separately or you could buy a full retail version of the OS from elsewhere (some people do have either of these). Beware that an upgrade version would not be of any use since there would be no previous activated OS to upgrade from.

Shop around if you like but personally I think you would be better off buying the OS from PCS.

 

[AmirThePersian]

So I can't upgrade from the trial version...

The reason I'd rather buy my own OS (probably Win7, to upgrade to 10) is because I can find them for a quarter of the price online... but I won't put any links, to not violate forum rules.

 

[keynes]

So I can't upgrade from the trial version...

The reason I'd rather buy my own OS (probably Win7, to upgrade to 10) is because I can find them for a quarter of the price online... but I won't put any links, to not violate forum rules.

As long as it is a legitimate copy it would be fine. If you are buying it then you should be comfortable with doing a clean installation of windows. Instructions on how to do that are provided with the welcome pack you get .