Gateway has a long history with the personal computer. A Gateway M520 notebook computer offers business networking capabilities with the portability that allows you to take your business with you, no matter where you go.

The Gateway M520 laptop offers these benefits:

1. A good wide screen for easy readability.

2. A lot of power.

3. The Gateway M520 price, which makes it affordable for someone just starting out.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Decide on your business computer needs before buying a Gateway M520 notebook

You don't rent a warehouse for a three-person consulting business, so neither would you buy a computer that is more or less than what you need. You need a computer for your business, so write out what you need from a computer.

I recommend: After you decide on a laptop, determine what features and accessories you need by consulting a Laptop Buying Guide.

Read Gateway M520 reviews

Make certain the Gateway M520 notebook is what you need by checking reviews of the different notebooks in this series. Reviews often include specifications too.

I recommend: Check eOpinions, CNET and NotebookReview for reviews of Gateway M520 laptops.

Purchase a Gateway M520 notebook computer

Once you find the M520 that fits with your business goals, it's time to make that purchase.

I recommend: Find your notebook at the Gateway website or retail store. You can also check other electronics retail giants like Best Buy.

Buy a used Gateway M520

If you're on a limited budget, shop for remanufactured or refurbished Gateway notebook computers. Just make sure a warranty comes with it.

I recommend: Look for a great Gateway M520 price at the “premium, pre-owned” Gateway notebooks from Gateway’s outlet center.

Meet your technical support for your Gateway M520 laptop

In a perfect world, you would never need technical support, but things happen, so take a close look at your technical support and warranty agreement before you finalize your purchase. Unfortunately, Gateway M520 reviews don't always have the highest ratings for customer support, although everyone's experience is different.

I recommend: Get a good support agreement from Gateway or any vendor you buy from.

Locate software packages

While you'll save money buying Gateway computers, the company's software isn't it's strongest selling point. Better to know the exact software that you want, and install it yourself. Install programs one at a time, allowing for a test time before you install other programs.

I recommend: Look through software reviews for help in making your business and productivity software choices. Don’t forget a good data recovery system too.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  As of October 16, 2007, Gateway became a subsidiary of Acer, so its future isn't clear. The names of specific models may change.
• •  Don't forget to look at accessories for your Gateway M520 laptop. The Gateway M520 battery has been inadequate for many users, so you might want to upgrade to a better battery.
• •  If your local computer store carries Gateway M520 series notebook computers, spend some time with one even it you're going to make your purchase online.