Questions About Windows XP Licence

[PohTayToez]

There are a few people that I might be building new systems for, and I was wondering about how issuing things like Windows XP and/or Microsoft Office works. I understand that there are system builder versions for each, but basically I would just like to know the cheapest way to legally install a new copy of Windows XP and Microsoft Office, and possible a link to what I would need to buy.

 

[elitehacker]

I guess the cheapest option is to get OEM versions of it, but you have to get a piece of hardware with them as well.

 

[subtle]

I think that they change license and you don't need to buy it with hardware anymore.
I'm not 100% sure though...

 

[elitehacker]

I don't think so, OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacture, the whole point of OEM is to get a cheap option when you get a brand new computer. If a retailer sells an OEM version without hardware they are branding their contract with microsoft.

 

[Reignofgold]

If you have an XP disk, I think Microsoft will sell you the COA's for the PC's for cheaper, just get in touch with them and they should help you. You should probably look here as well:
http://thesource.ofallevil.com/windowsxp/pro/howtobuy/default.mspx

 

[PohTayToez]

The closest thing I can find is volume licensing, but that seems to be for businesses, government or education... I didn't bother to read through it in depth, but I would guess that it would be a violation of contract to resell those licenses.