Windows XP OEM Question

peter212693

peter212693

peter212693

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Hi all,

I have just bought a copy of Windows XP Home OEM to install on my new build. Now if in the future I build another one will i be able to use the same OEM CD to install on another new build?

Thanks
 
1 licence for 1 system ....

If you build another, then no you can't use the same licence.
If you re-build your current computer then you're ok.
 
Microsoft define a computer as the motherboard, so when you change that you technically need a new copy. I say technically because i'm still using my OEM copy on my second "computer" (of course i'd only ever use one copy on one computer at a time), with numerous re-installs and web activations :D
 
Fillado said:
Microsoft define a computer as the motherboard, so when you change that you technically need a new copy. I say technically because i'm still using my OEM copy on my second "computer" (of course i'd only ever use one copy on one computer at a time), with numerous re-installs and web activations :D
Click to expand...

Do you have a reference for that definition?

I've also been told that an OEM copy is for use ONLY with the hardware it is purchases with. So if thats a hard disk, you can only use the copy with that hard disk.

Justin
 
From http://www.flexbeta.net/main/print.php?id=18469

Here is what Microsoft has to say:

“An upgrade of the motherboard is considered to result in a “new personal computer” to which Microsoft® OEM operating system software cannot be transferred from another computer. If the motherboard is upgraded or replaced for reasons other than a defect, then a new computer has been created and the license of new operating system software is required.”
Click to expand...

The reason Microsoft gave for this term is that

“Microsoft needed to have one base component “left standing” that would still define that original PC. Since the motherboard contains the CPU and is the “heart and soul” of the PC, when the motherboard is replaced (for reasons other than defect) a new PC is essentially created.”
Click to expand...

Microsoft sent a memo to its OEM partners asking them to enforce this new policy, every time they upgrade a computer for a client.
 
As long as you have the one copy installed on only one PC at one time, it doesnt matter what they define as the PC.

If the number of computers match the number of licenses you hold, youre OK.

The new motherboard thing really applies to when you want to buy OEM copies - they didnt like the fact that you could buy an OEM copy with an IDE cable.

I also think WinXP allows you one desktop and one laptop install, with the same license.
 
For what it's worth, I'm not sure how often you build a new PC for yourself but I'm sure it's fairly likely that the next time you do, Vista will be out and probably Service Packed. You probably won't want to use the same disc!
 
JustinW said:
From the Sticky.

Thats general consensus, not Microsoft then.

I'm interested in what Microsoft say is licenced.

Justin
Click to expand...

Its nice that people are actually reading the sticky.

The general consensus is from posts on Microsoft forums from MS employees who help to clarify policy to OEMs and system builders. So yes it is from MS, but not written particurly clearly in MS policy.

Burnsy
 
Sinizterguy said:
The new motherboard thing really applies to when you want to buy OEM copies - they didnt like the fact that you could buy an OEM copy with an IDE cable.
Click to expand...

Bare in mind that MS have revised thier license, and OEM license no longer has to be purchased with any hardware.

Burnsy
 
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