Is Microsoft Office (works suite 2006) really necessary to install into a new laptop?

I'm not in school anymore, I graduated. Well Im going to buy an HP laptop. I would like to have microsoft office installed into it during the factory process, but that costs $79. Do you think it's worth it to have it installed? Or is there something cheaper that I could buy from the store?

Also, can I decide to install it by myself later on? Or is that difficult. Because I'm thinking I'd like to have the factory pre-install it for me so that I don't have to mess with installation. Is the installation difficult? i'm pretty good with computers, but who knows. Thanks for your help! :)

Is Microsoft Office (works suite 2006) really necessary to install into a new laptop?security

The newest version of Microsoft Works sells on the Microsoft website for $40, so it's probably not worth getting it factory installed. Installation should be very simple . Keep in mind the difference between Microsoft Works and Microsoft Office. Works does not include key software such as PowerPoint. Microsoft Office has more features and programs and, because more people use it than Works, it should be more compatible with files from other people, and vice versa. However, Office is much more expensive than Works. If you want the better price, go with Works. If you want much more functionality, go with Office. Either way, it will probably be a good idea to install it yourself.