Make sure the computer has a drive bay to add a CD ROM drive or a tape backup unit, and it has free expansion slots to add a fax modem, sound card, and other expansion cards. A fax modem is a good investment since it provides the capability to send and receive faxes and also connect to the Internet, the world network of computers. Most brand name computers come with fax modems, some include answering machine capability, and some can even operate as a speakerphone. Most of these applications so far are in training and entertainment, but a lot of business software now comes on CDs. Most home-based entrepreneurs use their computer systems for business and home applications, and in the latter case the computer should have Multimedia capabilities.
Reliability counts in business.
Computers can break down, so you should ensure your business system is covered with warranty from the manufacturer and you should check the service coverage. You should consider investing in a computer made by a major manufacturer and you should purchase your system from an established reliable local source that has qualified technicians on staff that can offer service when needed. Check your supplier's references. Take your time to make the right choice. Many outlets selling to the home market carry only a limited number of products and are staffed by inexperienced people that have only one objective - to sell you the computer model they have in stock.