by Jennifer Claerr

Created on: June 18, 2009

Computers are excellent tools for kids. They are better than game consoles, because they can be used for educational purposes. However, computers can be rather expensive when purchased brand new. Computers can also expose children to certain dangers when they're connected to the Internet. There are a few tricks to buying and setting up a kid's gaming computer that's both cheap and safe. Buying a used computer and repairing and upgrading it will be much easier and less expensive than building a kid's computer from the ground up.

First, look on websites such as eBay and Craigslist for a cheap, used desktop computer. Any brand computer is fine, but a used HP computer will offer significant conveniences. If shopping for a kid's computer on eBay, check the seller's reputation carefully. Favor sellers who are close to where you live. If the computer will be shipped, choose a seller with a good return policy and insist on shipping insurance. If you have difficulty finding a computer on these websites, check the local yellow pages for a used computer store.

Then see if there's anything wrong with the computer. If there is missing or broken hardware, bid low or talk the seller down on the price. Also, if you choose to buy an older computer to save money, don't buy one that's much more than 5 years old. Make sure it has about 1 GHz of processing power and at least 256 MB of RAM so it can run kids' games. If possible, test the computer before buying it for your child.

Check an electronics store such as Fry's or Best Buy for cheap replacement computer components with a good rebate. Look for refurbished and open box parts. If possible, purchase an upgrade part for the computer rather than simply replacing it with an equivalent part.

Look for additional cheap upgrades while you're at the electronics store. Many older computers may need a graphics card, sound card, CD-ROM, DVD-ROM or memory upgrade to run the games that are currently popular with kids. Consider your budget when shopping for computer upgrades. The beauty of setting up a cheap kid's computer is that you don't have to purchase and install them now. You can upgrade them a little at time over several months or years.

Connect the kid's computer to your Local Area Network (LAN) using a wireless access point or a Network Interface Card (NIC). Install anti-virus and child protection software if the child's computer will be connected to the Internet. Free anti-virus software such as AVG or Avast! is fine if you

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