im getting a preinstalled computer because of the savings im getting thru the college. it comes with ALL required software, and a 4-year accidental damage warranty. basically, if i !@#$%^&* up the computer, they give me a temporary loaner while they try to fix it, or they give me a new one. If i went to Dell for the same thing, it would be a lot more expensive. http://www.ts.vcu.edu/g2g/images/StudentT.jpg