Dell computer inc

Whether you're a business of 500, 50, or 1, Dell and Gateway can tailor their services to fit your needs and stick with you every step of the way.

All the companies we review define and handle small businesses differently. Some companies—such as MicronPC—gear their offerings completely toward hardware installation and support. Others—such as HP and IBM—choose to go the VAR route, offering the help of partners to fill in their services. Using third parties to take care of chores such as Web hosting and design leaves them free to concentrate on hardware. And then there's Everdream, which provides a pure PC-leasing solution and all the tech support to rival an in-house IT administrator.

Dell and Gateway, however, manage to strike a balance among complete hardware systems, support, and extensive services. We like Gateway best for very small businesses. Free on-site consultations—regardless of the company size—and personal written proposals are just a few of the exceptional hand-holding services Gateway offers. For larger small businesses, we like Dell's personal touches. A Dell team is assigned to each company to help keep track of system needs and tech support. Services like Web hosting and design are also handled well.

Copyright ?? 2002 Ziff Davis Media Inc. All Rights Reserved. Originally appearing in PC Magazine.