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PostPosted: Sat Nov 18, 2006 1:44 pm
by brownbox
Whats the difference between OEM windows and non OEM versions?

PostPosted: Sat Nov 18, 2006 1:47 pm
by Charl
It's in the licence - think you may not remove an OEM version for installation on another computer.

PostPosted: Sat Nov 18, 2006 2:50 pm
by brownbox
So, the unused OEM version of windows thats comming with my new computer cant be sold? (I already own a copy of windows, and computer came with one too)

PostPosted: Sat Nov 18, 2006 7:33 pm
by Zöltuger
OEM means that you can only buy it with a new computer or new parts. it doesn't come with a retail box but apart from that, its the same.
as for the licence, doesn't a regular win XP licence only attach to one computer and can't be moved too?

PostPosted: Sat Nov 18, 2006 8:32 pm
by brownbox
as for the licence, doesn't a regular win XP licence only attach to one computer and can't be moved too?


I beleive that as long as you remove windows from the other computer, it can be added to another

PostPosted: Sat Nov 18, 2006 8:47 pm
by ZK-MAT
My understanding of OEM as far as licensing goes, is that it is sold with the component and designed to be used only with that component. That is, if it was an O/S, it cannot be reinstalled on another PC, hence why they usually put the Windows Serial and licence sticker on the cases of PC's.

We come across it a bit in the insurance industry, if a PC is stolen or damaged, we are obliged to buy a new O/S even if the client still has the original discs that could (in thoery) be re-loaded.

The benefit though is OEM versions bundled with products don't normally have all the flash packaging and are generally cheaper.