Just a quick poll to see how many of you's are using OEM versions of Windows over Retail ones on your Macs. When I say Windows I mean XP, Vista and 7. 
Just a quick poll to see how many of you's are using OEM versions of Windows over Retail ones on your Macs. When I say Windows I mean XP, Vista and 7.![]()
Someone posted earlier that OEM violates microsoft's Eula for OEM / system builder software. They implied we can't use such versions on our macs.
Microsoft doesn't license OEM to end-users, and has recently (Since Vista SP1) made efforts to clarify that language in the System Builder's License, but that doesn't mean it can't technically/physically be used. http://oem.microsoft.com/script/contentpage.aspx?PageID=563841
I've recently made an effort in this forum to make sure that folks who choose to use OEM do so with the knowledge that such use is beyond the scope of the license under which it is sold.
The only difference between OEM and retail versions are the included support from Microsoft and that the retail version has 32-Bit and 64-Bit installation media while the OEM version only has one DVD (but the other can be obtained directly from Microsoft for ~20 Euros handling fee).
That certainly is not true for Germany and probably other European countries as well, where courts have decided that this business model of Microsoft was illegal. Since then, every end user can purchase Systembuilder/OEM licenses of Microsoft products and install them on any computer. Furthermore, those licenses can also legally be resold and transferred to other computers.
For german speakers, here is the ruling:
http://www.jurpc.de/rechtspr/20000220.htm
The only difference between OEM and retail versions are the included support from Microsoft and that the retail version has 32-Bit and 64-Bit installation media while the OEM version only has one DVD (but the other can be obtained directly from Microsoft for ~20 Euros handling fee).
By the looks of the poll, more people seem to be running OEM than Retail... but it's not fair to call that yet! We'll wait a bit more. Let's hope more ppl vote!![]()
All my retail editions are free from MSDN AA, but I suppose I pay for that when I attend college.
I do have some OEM versions though too. I have never paid directly for either though.
If being properly licensed matters to you, get the retail version, if not go ahead and get the OEM. Just don't fool yourself into thinking you are properly licensed if you, as an end-user, opt to use OEM.
Microsoft should at least be happy we're buying their OS.The problem with MS is that there's always been TOO many versions of an OS to choose from and thus most users are confused with which version would best suit their needs. Apple makes it much easier. One OS version and that's all. Probably one of the reasons I made the switch 2 years ago!
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