Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for determining compatibility of a computer component with a particular computer configuration. In one embodiment, a user of a computing device may identify whether a hardware or software component the user wants to install in the computing device is compatible before opening the packaging. In another embodiment, a sensor detects an identifier of a computer component that is associated with a packaging without the user having to unseal the component. Information on the identifier may be compared with a list indicting compatibility and/or with that particular computer's configuration. Further aspects relate to installation procedures upon detecting a computer component is compatible. In one example, the computing device may perform one or more of the following steps: install the correct drivers automatically, provide plug-in and setup instructions, and warn the user about incompatibilities or otherwise help the user through the process.