COLGeek :
For the new one, a factory reset will remove anything you have on the system.
For the used system, a full, clean install will remove anything the previous owner had on the system.
So then--just to be clear
I need to do the factory re-set myself for the computer I am returning? Because if they just put it back on the shelf, all my information will still be on it, right?
And about the used computer I want to buy--
If I get the entire OS cleaned before I use it--I just want to be sure there is no way my account, or a previous user of eBay's account could be linked--at all--not even in the tiniest way. For instance, their IP address will not show up on the computer, right? I know I must sound a little paranoid, but it is of the utmost importance that eBay doesn't recognize the computer as being associated with anyone else. I know my IP address will show up, and that's fine.....
Also...along those same lines, the computer I am using now (the one I am taking back)--will a factory re-start erase the footprint that I left on it (same thing--will it keep me from being associated with another person's account). Because getting rid of all my information and passwords etc. is not really my main concern (although it is a concern) I just really want to be safe here. Thanks so much, Sherri