I just purchased a Inspiron 1.3 7000Series Model 7348 Dell Laptop with Win. 8.1 from Costco.
1. Made me set up a MS Outlook Account ... to proceed.
2. Did not tell me that the MS Outlook Account PW would be my laptop screen PW. Did not write it down so had to go through full PW recovery process.
3. Set up my WiFi and went on line to check emails. Suddenly started going to other odd sites as if I were surfing web sites. Then got blasted with adds and "You need to go to MS Virus Cleaner" to get rid of your Mulware and Adware infections. Had to used C_Alt_Del to get out of the Web Browser.
4. Called Dell ... Customer Support .... passed me on to Tech. Support .... passed me on to Software support ?? Tech. got on line with my PC and said ... "Oh Yeh... you have infections"
But said... I just got this and did nothing to get infected ????
Was told "well, that happens" but we can fix it for you. You have a good 3 year HARDWARE warranty but you need a SOFTWARE WARRANTY for just $ 280.00 / yr. or we can NOT help you.
5. Took it to my head IT Dept. Mgr. who said it came from Dell with this junk. Have talked to several others who say they have had the same experience with Dell. Said some stores will tell you right up front that they will have to take a brand new Dell and "CLEAN IT" before you walk out of the store.
6. Am planning on taking it back to COSTCO today and trading it in on a H P laptop, which I have been buying and using for my entire dept. for many years and very happy with.
word to the wise .... be prepared to have your Dell cleaned or consider another Mfg. laptop when you purchase. You may save a buck with Dell, but the frustration is not worth it and the Dell service ***.