OEM windows xp

Q

qbert3

[H]ard|Gawd
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Oct 1, 2005
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So I've been trying to buy a copy of windows xp but its sooo damn expensive. People have offered to sell me their unused OEM versions but Im not sure about OEM versions. Can I use them? I always thought it would be made to only work with 1 type of PC/motherboard/etc. I've read some of the "Microsoft OEM Licensing FAQ" posted here but im still not sure if I can use them ?
 
I may not be completely right on any of this, but here goes. It's my understand, if the OEM discs are generic XP discs, and not a Dell or HP restore disc, it should work and be legal with your computer. This is also assuming the people who are giving it to you, are no longer using that license, and have never registered it with a computer. Retail license are transferable across different PCs, just not more than one at any given time.

The lines have blurred lately on what's legal and not legal for OEM copies. Hopefully SJConsultant will drop in here and give a better answer.
 
From what Ive read (and been told):>
OEM from a STORE (like newegg, or ZipZoomFly, etc) can be installed on one PC, then its 'married' to that PC(or the OEM hardware the OS was purchased with, ie mobo)

You can use it on that PC, but never another PC (ie a different mobo)

OEM from Dell, HP, Compaq,ClearCube, etc) cannot be transferred except with the OEM PC.

Theres also a law MS got passed in 2004 that made it illegal to sell the COA (sticker with CDKey) by itself I believe.
 
dbwillis is correct.

Be very careful about buying OEM copies since there are many a questionable seller out there attempting to make money on vendor CDs they "aquired".
 
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