Any safety issues with using a previously owned computer

imis

Member
Nov 4, 2009
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I bought a computer at a yard sale a couple of weeks ago. I replaced the hard drive, but is there any risk to the bios? I don't know where the computer came from but it might have been someone's work computer so I just want to make sure it is safe to use.

Thanks in advance
 

Red Squirrel

No Lifer
May 24, 2003
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www.anyf.ca
Unless it's a bad guy who decided to rig it, I can't see why it would be unsafe. If you are worried open up the PSU and look for anything abnormal. This would be the most likely place for someone to rig a PC to blow up or something. I don't think I've ever heard of anyone doing this so it's quite far fetched.
 

MagnusTheBrewer

IN MEMORIAM
Jun 19, 2004
24,122
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For someone to have rigged the BIOS, you'd be at the level of government or industrial espionage. Put the tin foil hat down, you're fine.
 

corkyg

Elite Member | Peripherals
Super Moderator
Mar 4, 2000
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Smile and enjoy it. It should not self destruct.
 

Blain

Lifer
Oct 9, 1999
23,643
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Wipe the PC down with 91% Isopropyl Alcohol...
You should be fine.


You're welcome in advance
 
Last edited:

piasabird

Lifer
Feb 6, 2002
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Well you could download the standard BIOS that the computer would have come with and install it. Of course there is more danger that it will not work and then the computer will no longer be useable. Older computers often have to use the floppy drives to update the BIOS and it is quite possible to run into a faulty floppy drive. The best option is to try to leave the BIOS alone unless there are problems. Too many people assume that changing the BIOS will fix problems. However, if there is no problem dont try to fix it. A search on the internet might tell you if there is a BIOS issue with a specific motherboard or what kind of Processor a specific BIOS will support. Typically a BIOS is updated to support a specific Processor it did not originally support or to remedy technical issues like Memory Stability or support for Integrated Chipset Components.

One issue that you might need help with is aquiring a disk or a download with the needed chipset drivers. You usually only need this if you replace the system Disk (Hard Drive), or plan on wiping the initial Hard Drive wich might be a good idea. I think you said you replaced the hard drive so if you can get a download with the Chipset Drivers, that might help. This usually helps how well all the motherboard components work together. It may imporve how things like Ethernet, Sound, or video work.
 

0roo0roo

No Lifer
Sep 21, 2002
64,795
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but but they mighta put a keylogger on the mb, the network chipset might be compromised, the drive itself might have bug hardware/modded board!!
;)
 

desolate

Member
Jun 27, 2007
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I personally would keep a camera monitoring that used computer at all times to be on the safe side.