Wholesale Operating System?

Question

I’m buying a couple of computers off where I work, and hoping to cash in on eBay, however, I’ve just spoke to the IT guys and there not coming with an operating system!

So, can I put a copy of XP on, and say for “demo use only” or something clever so I’m legally safe.

Or

The only other option I see is Linux, which in that case does anyone know which one is the best when it comes to user interface, nicest on the eye sort of thing?

Thanks

Answer 1

Microbutt is into money. So, you have to buy a Windows XP for each computer. Now, after time you can qualify to use one OS and load on multiple computers as a Computer Builder. Last I read of this you need to buy about 25 XPs in a year. Figure $25,000+ then you can do like all the computer manufactures. Also, when you do this approach you are the End User Support. I try to find you the link about this. Now the other way is to buy OEM versions of XP which about $130 each (Vista about the same for Home Basic and Premium). Then load and you have to give the CD to the buyer and again, offer support with OEM versions.
Linux is becoming more competitive as an alternate OS choice. I use Suse Linux and a friend loaded Ubuntu few days ago and said it worked easy. Suse I think you buy for around $50. Ubuntu is free. There a few more I find you some links.

http://knopper.net/knoppix-mirrors/index-en.html
http://www.novell.com/linux/
http://www.ubuntu.com/
http://www.redhat.com/

What is a System Builder? A System Builder (SB) is anyone who assembles, reassembles or installs software on a new or used computer system. Microsoft OEM System Builder products are designed to make it easy for System Builders to acquire and distribute genuine Microsoft software with the systems they build and sell. By purchasing this product, you agree to adhere to the System Builder Agrement (PDF file here need Acrobate Reader)
http://www.microsoft.com/oem/sblicense from Microsoft.
You must purchase OEM software with essential hardware, HDD, Mobo etc. Examples of components that are not considered essential are external modems, networking devices, cameras, printers, and scanners.

Answer 2

I hope you're not looking to "cash in on eBay" for much money because even if the system is only 2 years old, then bear in mind that there are brand new systems now on the market that start around $400 that are not bad systems. I'm just saying that if we were to purchase and operating system with the exception of a free downloadable single user version of Linux, then you might be putting more money into the system than it is worth. I would hate for you to put a system on eBay that you've sunk like $60 or more into a system and only make a few bucks after you have taken your time to install and configure an operating system and dealt with the headaches of shipping the computer. Ask yourself if it's worth making $100 (more than likely less than that) on eBay. You have good intentions but just understand that buying a new fully configured system now for $400 to $500 might be a better idea for a new computer user versus buying an older system for about $100 less than the new one. I'm sorry that I may have burst your bubble but I have learned the hard way that good ideas like this do not always put much money in your pocket. I have worked at a computer store as a manager and technician and know that used systems are not big money-makers. You will do what you think is best for you. I simply wanted to point some things out from my personal experience for you to think about.

Answer 3

I have never heard of "demo use only", however that would still be illegal anyway since you are using it for business or personal use. The other option is to purchase some legit copies of XP on ebay, which could be very cheap -- especially if you get the HOME editions. Windows 2000 is also a good option and should be cheaper since it is not longer available through traditional channels. OEM versions of windows may be even cheaper to get, and typically they do not require registration with microsoft when installed.

Honestly, if you install XP on your office computers and not touch the internet, no one is going to know that you are running illegal copies, unless you get audited in some way. Even if you do hit the 'net, it seems unlikely microsoft will go hunting you down, especially since XP is now officially replaced by Vista. It's still illegal to do, and I do not advocate this approach, but no one can stop you.

If you want to use Linux, you can easily purchase a cheap package from RED HAT, which comes with an easy install program and interface.

~Le

Answer 4

As far as putting ANY Windows software on there you cannot legally do so and M$ would come after you if they found out.

As for Linux, I would say that SuSE would be your best OS for this.

I may be interested in one of them...Please e-mail me and let me know the spec and how much. I will trade a discount for personal Linux install assistance

Answer 5

If you're just gonna sell them on e-bay I'd throw a copy of Fedora Core (free version of Redhat Linux). Leave it to whoever buys it to come up with their own operating system if they don't like that one.

Answer 6

You're better off selling them and stating that the hard disk is blank, otherwise some people will think that you will support the Operating System...

Answer 7

Check Salehoo, http://salehoo.deals-guide.com

Answer 8

Try: