Windows 8 System Builder and OEM

Siberian

Siberian

Member
I always twitch when I hear the term OEM when it comes to operating systems - Windows in this case. As I've understood it, OEM means I can't change my motherboard, reinstall Windows, and re-activate it successfully. Correct me if I'm wrong.

Wondering if I should get Windows 8 I came across a so called System Builder-edition, apparently intended for those who want to do a clean install and not an upgrade. What I don't get is that this version also had the term OEM, the full name being Windows 8 Professional System Builder OEM DVD 64-Bit.

So what does this mean? Is it a full version or isn't it? Can I change my hardware freely without fear of Windows not working afterwards? I think the term system builder kinda implies that a person likes to play around with hardware, and so if this version only functions with its original hardware - well then that totally blows!
 
martinhersey said:
OEM means Original Equipment Manufacturer. It means you have Microsoft customer service available for free.
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Wrong. OEM gets no support from Microsoft.

OEM also means you can't transfer the license from the computer you installed it on to another one (like changing the motherboard and stuff). It just won't activate.

So imo the better version to get is a normal copy. OEM copies are cheaper but they also can only be used on the computer they were first installed on - so if you change your motherboard, you can't re-install from that OEM disc.
 
^ This. Though I'd always buy OEM if you plan to install the software on just one computer, just to save yourself some money.
 
Well, there really is no full version of Windows 8, they are all OEM. But I'm not quite sure about the installing on more than one pc. I'm sure this has been discussed a few times already?
 
There is two OEMs with 8. A regular OEM and a System Builders OEM. I always thought the regular OEM was suppost to be bought with a system or atleast some computer parts with no customer service from microshaft. But most places sell them and not making other hardware sales with them. Then you have the System Builders OEM which anybody can buy for their system or if your a builder for customers. Who ever builds the system provides service.
 
lucasbytegenius said:
....
OEM also means you can't transfer the license from the computer you installed it on to another one (like changing the motherboard and stuff). It just won't activate....
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Slightly incorrect. I have Windows 7 OEM and I changed my motherboard. You are correct when you say "won't activate" but a quick activation over the phone worked well for myself. So it is possible to change your motherboard and keep the OEM edition of Windows.
 
AlienMenace said:
The Windows 8 Systems Builders license is worded different this time, since there is no actual retail version of the software. You really have to read that licensing info. It is under "Personal Use License". Here is the link: http://personaluselicense.windows.com/en-US/default.aspx
The way I understand it, it can be transferred.
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Yeah, it sounds like the system builders you can.

(The license is only for use by one person at a time)

(You may also transfer the software (together with the license) to a computer owned by someone else if a) you are the first licensed user of the software and b) the new user agrees to the terms of this agreement)

Sounds like to me it can be transfered to another person on another computer.


(You may transfer the software to another computer that belongs to you)

Sounds like you can install it on another computer you own, one at a time. So that should cover any kind of upgrades.

Pretty much the same as the old retail version.
 
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