i've had this laptop now for just over a year and havent had any major issues with it. The performance speed is very good and it has been able to run any program i've put on it quickly and without any problems. The memory is also a good size, its split over two hard drives with i find a bit annoying as it means when one is getting full i have to transfer to the other, but i wouldnt consider this a major issue, and i think most laptops now come like this anyway. It wireless ready, has several USB connections. One of the most useful features i've found is the built-in memory card reader. It means im easily able to download files and photos straight onto the card without having to remember the card reader as well. It reads 5 different type of card. One of my only criticisms is the weight of the laptop, for its size its quite heavy to carry around for a long period of time. With it being a 17" screen is is also quite big, so if you want something to use on the go, i would maybe suggest something smaller. The screen size is an advantage if you watch a lot of videos through your laptop as its a similar size to most portable Tv's. The picture quality is also very good. The laptop also comes with a built in DVD-R drive, this works at a decent speed if you are wantin to burn discs. One of my only other criticisms is the battery. At first it was very good but now after a year you only just over an hour even when it is in powersave mode. So again not too good if you want to use it on the move. It comes with Windows Vista and has all the usual programs you would expect. Overall im quite happy with my purchase as its turned out to be very reliable and fits well for what i need.