I am trying to buy a new copy of windows xp home.
On ebay I see mostly ads for what is called "OEM" software..........
Somebody PLEASE tell me what is the difference between this OEM software and what I would buy in a retail store???
AND... what risks am I taking if I buy this on ebay from a person who "says that it has never been registered or used"????????
Am I better off buying what is called a retail packaged box of this software???
Thanks,
duvall
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In theory, if they're selling OEM software, it has to be attached to some form of hardware. (Usually a computer, but I've seen some people sell it with just the motherboard, or just the hard drive, etc.) If they're selling it without the hardware, then it's not strictly legal. Buying software from ebay is not something I'd do, as there's too much of a risk of something going wrong. (They may be strictly legit, but the risk would be too high for me to try it.)
OEM software is actually supposed to be tied to the hard drive and motherboard, not just one of them. However, to "legally" buy OEM software, you need to purchase one or the other of those components. The problem with buying it isn't registration, but the "Windows Genuine Advantage" (WGA) activation. If it doesn't activate properly, then you will not be able to install any future Microsoft updates or security patches (Windows XP).
If it is Windows Vista and it doesn't meet the WGA activation, then you will be stuck with a blank screen that only gives you access to Internet Explorer for an hour at a time.
If you decide to go forth and purchase the software...
1) Make sure you purchase it from a vendor that requires that you purchase the hard drive with it. While there are vendors that will sell it separately, this will help you know that the person may be legit. It doesn't guarantee it, though.
2) Make sure that they send you original media that has the hologram and also the original "Product Key" label, not just a copy or some other sticker. It has to be the ones from Microsoft.
3) If the OEM version was originally sold to a vendor, such as Dell, Acer, Gateway, or etc., then the Product Key may not be valid for upgrades to future OS versions. These companies reserve "blocks" of keys that can only be used by them. For example, the Dell Recovery CD will create two hard drive partitions -- one for the OS and your applications; another hidden one for their "recovery" software. The version of Windows that they give to you will not install unless it finds that partition and it contains the appropriate "key".
Thanks,
Brian
Business Accounts
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by: Bartender_1Posted on 2007-09-04 at 15:08:11ID: 19828851
OEM stands for "Original Equipment Manufacturer/Manufacturing
Retail (what you buy on the shelf in a store) is not tied to any hardware, and can be used on different machines. (If you buy a Vista Upgrade and use it on one computer, then buy a new computer, you could theoretically use it on the new computer if you uninstall it from the old computer.
Hope this helps!
:o)
Bartender_1