Page 22 - Computer Basics- Student Textbook

Keep in mind that software is often designed for either a PC or a Mac, so make sure whatever program or game you
purchase is compatible with your particular computer. Some software is compatible with both types of computers.
Apple has a Windows immulator that can be purchased to run Windows programs within the Apple environment.

Quite often you can purchase previous versions of programs for a lot less than the current version. Many software
vendors are changing their marketing strategy. Years ago, you used to pay a one-time purchase for program
(actually, you purchased the license to use the program) and from then on, it was yours to use. But now many
vendors are moving to a monthly least (subscription service) to use their program. It is initially less money to start
up, but you never pay or own a license…you just keep paying indefinitely if you want to continue using the
program. If the version is updated with new features, you automatically receive all new updates. Most of these
programs operate partially through the internet via the cloud. Therefore, to lease them, you must have a reliable
and fast connection to the internet at least once every 30 days.

If you look for a standalone version of the same software and look for a version perhaps before the present version,
you may be able to purchase it for a fraction of the cost. For example, Microsoft Office Home Edition 2019 is
available from multiple sources for as low as $40, and that includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Access,
Publisher, and Visio. A subscription of Office 365 for the use of the same programs costs about $10 per month, or
$120 per year and you never pay it off. So, in three months, you could have purchased Office 2019 which does
about the same thing, but you own the license for ever.

The trend is clear: The tech world is moving toward cloud-based software (subscription based), complete with all
the pros and cons that such software brings. Normally a cloud-based program operates considerably slower than a
program installed on your hard-drive. Adobe, for instance, has moved most of its product line toward cloud-based
offerings, with Adobe Creative Cloud and Adobe Document Cloud. Office 365 is Microsoft’s move to the cloud with
its Office suite.

Computer Basics: What to know before purchasing a computer

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