what's the difference between......?

Question

Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition SP2 - OEM

and

Windows XP Home with Service Pack 2

and why does the first one cost half the price as the second?

Answer 1

OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer and it comes preinstalled in your computer. Make sure it is not an upgrade unless you have another windows already installed.

Answer 2

OEM means original equiptment manufacture, it comes with no support from Microsoft, the support comes from the maker of the computer.

If you are building the computer or updating your OS. that means you are responsible if there is any problems or questions.

Both however, will still get all Windows updates free of charge.

Also an OEM version can not be transfered to another computer.

Answer 3

OEM, when used to describe software, is used to differentiate that version of the software which is bundled with other hardware or software from that same software package sold on its own as a retail package. The packaging and legal rights that come with the OEM versions of a software package generally differ from what is provided with the retail versions. The functionality of the software is often the same, but it is quite common for the OEM version to be a version with reduced functionality.

Answer 4

Because the second one already comes with the latest service pack updates. The cheaper one will require you to sit for a few minutes in front of your computer, downloading the updates and installing them yourself. If you've got a fast connection, do it yourself and save!

Answer 5

The first is installed on the pc from factory, the second usually is the retail version standalone copy.

Answer 6

dont get the one with service pack. they just trying to charge you for something you can get free online!