Presenting compatible components and system conditions for computer devices

A computer-implemented method for allowing the purchase of components for a hardware device, the method comprising:

• receiving a selection from a user of a purchase option control displayed in an operating system running on a computer system;
• using the identity of a hardware device coupled to the computer system and in communication with the operating system to receive current purchasing information at the computer system related to the hardware device, wherein the identity of the hardware device is determined based on device information collected by the operating system from the hardware device;
• and
• displaying, on the computer system, at least one component for the hardware device based on the identity of the hardware device such that a user can select and purchase the at least one component, wherein the at least one component is compatible with and for use with the hardware device.

A computer readable medium including program instructions for allowing the purchase of components for a hardware device using a computer system, the program instructions for performing steps comprising:

• using an operating system on the computer system to automatically determine the identity of a hardware device coupled to the computer system and in communication with the operating system;
• communicating over a network to receive current purchasing information from a server at the computer system related to the hardware device;
• and
• displaying, on the computer system, at least one component for the hardware device based on the identity of the hardware device when a user selects a purchase option provided and displayed by the operating system, such that a user can select the at least one component for purchase, wherein the at least one component is compatible with and for use with the hardware device.