Can 100% legit software/hardware be bought at a discount for a small business?

For example, i have been told that there is no "proper" way to get Dell products at a price cheaper then on their web site. I have also been told there are only a few truly licensed dealers of Microsoft software.

However, others have offered to get Dell/Microsoft products at cheaper prices. What is going on here?

Thanks!

Any big brand (Sony, Dell) often fixes their prices, so authorized dealers can not deviate from that for the minimum price. They can raise the price, then depending on your bargaining ability, they can make more profit.

How many PC's do you want? Quantity can bring down the price, it's part of your negotiating. Even with as little as 20 PC's you may be able to set up something directly with Dell or HP via their website or custoemr service.

For sw/hw it can be difficult to know you are getting the real thing. I bought a 'real computer' from an authorized dealer, but it had a fake video card and a fake operating system.

I know someone I trust at a major authorized dealer, for 2 years, and they've worked there many more years, and they have a good network of people to find things even if it's not their brand. PM me with your details, maybe I can connect you.

You can buy Dell from non-Dell suppliers, you can buy Microsoft from non-Microsoft suppliers.

Actually buying Microsoft software is a real hassle. You'd think they'd fix this as its easier to pirate the stuff than buy it for real.

There are a number of avenues for products.

Wholesalers can get Dell cheaper.
OEM version of MS Products are cheaper.

OEM is supposed to be sold with a computer, but its often sold without. Its cheaper to buy the OEM version, and its still legal software.

There are also grey import versions of both, often on which tax hasn't been paid.

For software, you may want to try a store like Federal, or you can contact us directly if you have specific requirements. Stuff in English is harder to find (we occasionally source that from HK).

Dell has a really **** up ordering system, so we don't really like to sell them.
They're also more expensive than the competition.

HP makes decent PC's, take a look at those. Or take a look at the Chinese VAR's - like HAIER, or Founder. Founder has pretty good service, and prices are competitive.

I've found Dell service to be lacking on occasion, and their spares aren't always available. IBM is also quite similarly atrocious when it comes to that, but at least Dell doesn't argue as much as IBM about things.

Service + Support here are both lacking sadly.