Free Computers

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Does anyone remember when there was a program on TV and some stores where they offered free computers? I think this was going on in the late 90s for people wanting to go online and couldn't afford it. I was thinking back on this and could not remember just what the trade off was. You don't get stuff free without something that benefits a company.

I don't remember free computers, but I do remember free internet service. The company, NetZero, gave you internet (dial up) for free. The pages you viewed had ads on the top and bottom and they sold this advertising to make their money. Eventually the company did start charging for service. I guess there wasn't enough profit in the ads alone.

can always use freecycle nowadays

The "free" computers, as I recall, were loaded with spyware, and had extensive restrictions on what you were permitted to do with the software and operating system.

another company that provided the computers was PeoplePC online (dialup only service) to those who could not afford a computer from BestBuy or Staples, they would charge the payments on the monthly bill (think was 9.95 something a month)

I remember hearing horror stories about PeoplePC, some were technical support (calls handled in india) as well as the computer problems (internet use, not the "free computer")


anymore the only place anymore I see offering free computers is some online college courses, they usually offer a laptop or tablet/iPad

as for regional or national groups that had free computers, possible it was big brothers big sisters type of group??? relief group??