Do you know anything about it, I know its illegal, but is it illegal for them to sell it? or is it illegal for us to buy it?
Hw do they get away with it? I want to buy MS office for my mac, and I dont want my arm ripped off.
Please help!
2007-03-28 10:27:08 · 3 answers · asked by Anonymous in Computers & Internet ➔ Software
OEM software isn't illegal. It's just the same package hardware vendors (like dell or gateway) might distribute with their computers. It usually includes no special books or manuals (or packaging) hence the cheaper cost.
2007-03-28 10:32:46 · answer #1 · answered by mackn 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
OEM software is perfectly legal. The difference between OEM and retail versions differ in licensing restrictions and in who provides support. Support for OEM versions is provided by the vendor of the software, rather than the manufacturer (that's why the price is lower) and if you're the one buying and installing it, you provide your own support. Most people who build their own computers buy OEM versions of Windows, it's perfectly legit, regardless of what is says in the article in the link in the above post.
There are licensing differences too. Most OEM software does not come in "upgrade" versions, only full versions and is usually only legally allowed to be installed on one computer during its "lifetime". Different software has different restrictions in regards to OEM, depending on the maker of the particular software in question and the rules they've put in place for OEM versions of their software.
2007-03-28 17:35:06 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Pretty good explanation here.
http://financialsoft.about.com/od/softwaretitle1/f/OEM_faq.htm
It is always best to buy from legitimate sources and get the CD with product key. That way you can register it and get updates and fixes, and you will have the CD in case you ever need to reinstall.
2007-03-28 17:33:10 · answer #3 · answered by TheHumbleOne 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋