Every year throughout the world, millions of fully-functional computers are thrown away. The Community MAR programme works with refurbishment organisations to help prolong the useful life of this equipment and help ensure that it reaches those in need of affordable access to technology.

What is a Refurbished Computer?

Refurbishment is the process of making a used, essentially intact, computer suitable for a new owner including cleaning, repairing and if necessary upgrading it before donating or selling it to a new owner. This process includes clearing any data or software left on the computer and repairing or replacing any necessary parts. All computers refurbished within the Community MAR programme are eligible to be equipped with a fully-licenced Microsoft operating system.

Providing computers

Providing a computer for participation under the Community MAR programme is easy, and you do not need to register with Microsoft to provide computers to a Community MAR. The programme works to help ensure that your computer is professionally refurbished, equipped with legal Microsoft software, and distributed only to an eligible recipient.

If you are interested in providing a computer to be a part of this programme, contact a Community MAR in your area.

Find a Community MAR.

Receiving computers

The Community MAR programme is open to any eligible recipient. You do not need to register with Microsoft to receive a refurbished computer under the Community MAR programme. If you acquire a computer through the programme, you will receive a computer that was required to have been professionally refurbished and that comes equipped with a legal Microsoft operating system.

If you are interested in acquiring a computer through this programme, contact an Authorised Refurbisher who supplies computers to your country or region.

Find a Community MAR.

Licencing Guide for Refurbished PCs

Using genuine Windows operating systems is as important for refurbished PCs as it is for new PCs. Only genuine Windows operating systems offer end users the quality they expect and additional benefits such as full access to downloads, updates, and enhanced features. Click here to find out when a new Windows operating system license is required and when one is not required for a refurbished PC.