It is a reliable ENTRY LEVEL computer that is only availible in some stores. You can get a better quality computer for the same price if you go to dell online. But yes, it can do those tasks well and reliably. Dell SHOULD always be ONE of the models you consider, but you should also look at asus, apple, toshiba, lennovo and compaq. AVOID ACER EMACHINES GTATEWAY AND PACKARD BELL.

This computer only comes with office trial version (30-90 days). You need to either buy office, or use an alternative like google docs, microsoft live docs, or open office. Those three are FREE.

As to whether the webcam is good...... NO
ALL built in webcams are crummy no matter what brand computer you buy. It would be better to get an accessory webcam Microsoft and logitech make EXCELLENT ones that are very cheap, especially if you time a sale just right. BB and officemax just had the logitech c510 on sale for only 30 bucks. I just bought a couple and donated them to the local army reserve unit for the guys and gals going out to the mid east. The logi c510 has 720P video and 8MP still photo. It clips right to the top of your monitor or laptop, folds up when not in use, and even has a nice carrying case included for free.

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