I have been in the computer industry for a number of years now, silently sitting back and observing. Now that I run my own computer service I feel I must speak out. I pride myself on my honesty and integrity and can not tolerate dishonest people or poor workmanship. Too many times I have come across another technician’s work that was either done improperly or down right illegally. I have been told that I should become the Holmes On Homes of the computer industry and that is why I’m writing this. I want to inform my customers and the public what to look for in their computer technicians. Over the next little while I will be writing my opinions and observations regarding the computer industry. I realize I can’t change it but perhaps I can help to better inform you. It is far too easy for a computer technician to take advantage of someone that doesn’t know better.

Today lets talk about the Windows Operating System (Windows Vista or Windows XP). I have known people who have gone into a computer shop and had operating system down graded from Windows Vista to Windows XP and had not received a copy of the windows software nor had they received the COA (Certificate Of Authenticity). The COA is a visual identifier that assists in determining whether or not the Microsoft software you are running is genuine. It includes the product key that is required to reinstall Microsoft if the need arises. Keep in mind that the COA should never be purchased without the software that it authenticates.

When you buy Microsoft software they have built in features that prevent piracy and indicates whether or not its genuine. The COA label is one way but the software media is the other. The media will be a DVD with a hologram with the words Microsoft and Genuine on it. Always check to make sure that the hologram isn’t a label that can be pealed off. If in doubt check the Microsoft website under How To Tell windows is genuine.

Keep in mind when you go to buy Microsoft software if its a ridiculously low price, then be cautious. I’ve seen ads for Windows Vista Ultimate for $50.00 to $100 including installation. Think about it, Windows Vista Ultimate is retailed at $330.00 or more. OEM software should never be sold without the purchase of system hardware like a motherboard or harddrive. If you purchase it without system hardware then the copy of windows becomes illegal to own.

I hope you enjoyed reading this and once again please keep in mind these are my opinions. Its best to educate yourself on what is out there to prevent problems in the future. Please feel free to comment on my blog.