I'm looking to replace my motherboard, CPU, case, and powersupply and move my 2 harddrives and DVD Drive to the new case and set it up. Now I'm having a problem finding out if I should get OEM of Windows XP or Retail. I'm leaning towards OEM because it's cheaper. But if OEM has some major cons to it, I might buy retail. People have said OEM has some problems that retail doesn't, like random crashing or whatever. I also know that Windows XP OEM can only be installed once, to hardware. Does that mean if I add an extra harddrive, or a new graphics card that it will have to be reinstalled again? I'm confused on the whole situation, if anyone would be kindly to list the pros and cons to buying OEM vs. retail, I'd be very grateful.
2007-10-06 13:05:52 · 3 answers · asked by Anonymous in Computers & Internet ➔ Software
When looking at Newegg.com for the OEM Windows XP the disclaimer on it says :
Qualifying proof of purchase must be recent receipts showing the purchase of a mother board, hard drive, RAM and a CPU. The components can be on multiple receipts; not necessarily all on one receipt nor on the same receipt as the qualifying Windows XP/Office 2003 that you purchased.
what does that mean?
2007-10-06 13:16:29 · update #1
They are the same.
OEM were designed for computer manufactures to pre-install on their computers,and not for resale. and when you change motherboard, the licence will cease to exist as you are not suppose to use the licence on another.
Retail takes away the restriction, but in reality, they are both usable in your situation.
2007-10-06 13:10:29 · answer #1 · answered by Cupcake 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
OEM will have to be activated by M.S. after installation, I don't think retail does. Retail is a branded copy that computer Mfg. added some stuff to, including adware, aka; crapware.
pg
2007-10-06 13:30:07 · answer #2 · answered by purdygoode 5 · 0⤊ 2⤋
go retail. unless you never plan up upgrading your computer
2007-10-06 13:09:02 · answer #3 · answered by Chau H 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋